Homme Less is the documentary about Mark Reay who is a successful fashion photographer in New York City who is also homeless. Yes, that's right. He lives on the rooftop of his friend's apartment building, unbeknownst to his friend, and manages to make his way through the city with lockers at the YMCA and his own shower and bathroom at the public park.
Reay shows his tenacity and his street smarts at how well he's able to live without an actual roof over his head. He also moonlights as an actor and manages to make some income. An ex-model himself, his handsome looks and his fashion style throw people off the trail that he's actually homeless. Some might see him as a squatter or a trespasser, while others may admire his ability to survive in the concrete jungle. There's not much explanation as to why he is in the situation he's in. Is he living beyond his means? Why can't he find a roommate and live somewhere? Why not find a stable job? If he's choosing to live this way, then why should I care about him? Why doesn't he just move back to live with his mom in Jersey?
As part of VIFF's Style In Film series, I was hoping for something more along the lines of Bill Cunningham, Iris, or even Advanced Style. But Bill Cunningham, he is not. Homme Less lacks just that tiny bit of charm to make one feel for the subject. Reay is a well-put together man who seems confident and at times, cocky. The film itself is a love letter to New York City and its darker side.
Homme Less is on again October 4 at 6:30pm at the Centre for Performing Arts and October 7 at 11am at SFU Woodwards.
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