Lost In Woonsocket

Plot Summary

Lost in Woonsocket is a story of hope, kindness, and the reality of human frailty. In 2005, a group of filmmakers from Random1, an A&E show created by John Chester and Andre Miller, began a humanitarian experiment as they roamed the country looking for strangers who needed help. In a revealing, behind the scenes look at the process, we are introduced to two homeless alcoholics, Mark and Normand, who live in a tent. Hopeless and out of touch with their families for years, the two nonetheless maintain a strong friendship. John and Andre break the rules of the show to get Mark into detox, and hopefully -- a life of sobriety. Along the way, we meet a friendly barber who knows the truth about what it takes to stay clean. We see the sincerity of everyday people reaching out -- offering what they can to make a difference. There's even more drama when the series gets cancelled. With many questions left unanswered, it's back to Woonsocket, Rhode Island to discover what's become of the two men. What they find may surprise you, as John and Andre candidly explore how television can change lives. The question remains, did their Good Samaritan ways actually do more harm than good? Up close and unflinching in its raw honesty, there are moments of pathos, humor, and grace. This documentary examines the rush people get from helping one another, the struggle against addiction, and the belief that compassion still exists in modern society.