Samaritan: The Mitch Snyder Story is a biographical drama film from 1986 starring Martin Sheen, Roxanne Hart, and Joe Seneca. It tells the true story of Mitch Snyder, a homeless advocate who fought tirelessly to help the homeless population in Washington D.C. Snyder, played by Martin Sheen, was a Vietnam War veteran who had been homeless himself and knew firsthand the struggles and challenges that the homeless faced on a daily basis.
The movie begins with Snyder's early life and his enlistment in the army during the Vietnam War. After returning from the war, Snyder struggled with alcoholism and found himself homeless. Eventually, he found his way to a homeless shelter and began to turn his life around. In 1974, Snyder founded the Community for Creative Non-Violence (CCNV) and began his work advocating for the homeless.
Snyder's work was not easy, as he faced opposition from politicians, police, and other organizations who did not want to see the homeless population helped. However, Snyder persevered, often going on hunger strikes and staging protests to raise awareness of the plight of the homeless. He worked tirelessly to improve housing and services for the homeless, and became a well-known figure in Washington D.C.
The movie focuses not only on Snyder's work as an advocate, but also on his personal life. He meets and falls in love with a journalist named Sheila (played by Roxanne Hart), and their relationship provides a touching subplot. Snyder also struggles with his own demons, including his past alcoholism and his occasional anger and frustration with those who oppose his mission.
The performances in Samaritan: The Mitch Snyder Story are outstanding, particularly Martin Sheen's portrayal of Snyder. Sheen captures Snyder's ion and intensity, as well as his emotional highs and lows. Roxanne Hart is also excellent as Sheila, bringing warmth and humanity to the character.
The movie is well-paced, with a strong script that balances Snyder's personal life with his work as an advocate. The scenes of Snyder and his fellow activists staging protests are particularly effective, as they highlight the bravery and determination of those who fought for the rights of the homeless.
Overall, Samaritan: The Mitch Snyder Story is a powerful and moving portrayal of one man's fight to improve the lives of the homeless. It is a must-see for anyone interested in social justice issues or in the power of one person to make a difference in the world.
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