The Soloist
About the Film
The Soloist is an emotionally soaring drama about lost dreams and the redemptive power of music. In the film, which was based on a true story, Journalist Steve Lopez (Oscar® nominee Robert Downey Jr.) discovers Nathaniel Anthony Ayers (Oscar® winner Jamie Foxx), a former classical music prodigy, playing his violin on the streets of L.A. As Lopez endeavors to help the homeless man find his way back, a unique friendship is formed, one that transforms both their lives.
The film explores such issues as homelessness and mental illness, as well as the healing nature of music. The social action campaign for the film will focus on these issues with educational and legislative initiatives to help guide audience members who are interested in getting involved.
In the News
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Violence Against the Homeless: Is It a Hate Crime?
Time | October 22, 2008
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Finding L.A.'s hidden homeless
Los Angeles Times | August 23, 2008
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'The Soloist' by Steve Lopez
Los Angeles Times | April 21
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Take Action Now
A number of organizations were instrumental in the making of the film. Stay tuned for specific elements of the social action campaign. Until then, find out how you can help make a difference right now by going to these groups’ sites:
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Lamp Community
Founded in 1985, Lamp Community is a nonprofit organization providing housing, health recovery, and job training to homeless men and women with serious mental illness.
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The Midnight Mission
Founded in 1914, The Midnight Mission provides Los Angeles' Skid Row and families in crisis with emergency shelter, food, clothing, and drug and alcohol rehabilitation programs.
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Volunteers of America
Founded in 1896, VoA is a national, nonprofit, faith-based organization dedicated to helping those in need rebuild their lives. Its thousands of human service programs, including housing and healthcare, help more than 2 million people in over 400 communities.
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Los Angeles Philharmonic Association
LAPA presents orchestral and chamber music, recitals, new music, jazz, world music and holiday concerts. It also offers educational programs, community concerts and children's programming.