“I Am Another You” is an unlikely pairing of inspiration and disappointment that leads audiences to discover the importance of identifying the value of all members in our community. The film analyzes the intricacies of life on the street, highlighting the plight of a young, homeless ex-heroin addict and his battle with psychosis.

The second of two guerilla films directed and produced by Nanfu Wang, “I Am Another You” offers a refreshing perspective on the homeless community of the United States, accentuating the rewards and pitfalls of their minimalist lifestyle. Wang follows Dylan, a 22-year-old who has chosen to be homeless, on his journey across North America to seek happiness. As he makes his trek, Dylan attempts to find joy in the relationships and interactions he encounters along the way.

The movie is divided up into three parts with different perspectives — Dylan’s, Dylan’s family’s and Wang’s. The audience begins the film from Dylan’s viewpoint, which offers an in-depth explanation of his character and the motivations behind his distinct and voluntary lifestyle.

In the first portion of the documentary, the audience witnesses Dylan’s love for humankind and his unique ability to connect with individual members of society, despite his unsavory appearance. As the story progresses, Dylan’s family reveals some motives behind his way of life, stemming from his experiences as a child, while simultaneously questioning their role in his choice to be homeless.

While the topic of the movie is unusual enough to attract a crowd, Wang’s use of cinematography, sound and picture keeps the audience intrigued throughout the film’s entirety. Her use of handheld footage supplies the film with a fitting intimacy, allowing the viewers to be part of Dylan’s journey. The soundtrack complements the lighthearted yet crude nature of the film, heightening the emotions experienced throughout the turbulent documentary. Simultaneously, the transitional shots sprinkled across the film help track the passing of time while providing a beautiful look at Dylan’s stark lifestyle.

Wang’s reflection on her months-long experience documenting Dylan’s life bridges the gap between his apparent happiness caused by his unconventional choices and his family’s concern for their loved one — revealing the reality of Dylan’s poor mental health and his apparent inability to function coherently in normal society. “I Am Another You” captivates the undivided attention of the audience through a sobering look into the lifestyle of one of America’s homeless youth.

Through “I Am Another You,” Wang is able to subdue negative connotations placed on those experiencing homelessness as well as shedding light on the prevalence of mental health issues among them. Wang makes it clear that society must be more compassionate and less judgemental toward the homeless community. After all, we are all human beings.  

“I Am Another You” opens at The Quad Cinema at 34 W. 13th St. on Wednesday, Sept. 27.

Email Paige Lane at [email protected].