We Live Here: A Powerful 360 Documentary Unveiling Homelessness
Mixed Reality Production: Blog 2 of 6
In the realm of immersive storytelling, virtual reality (VR) has the ability to transport us to places and experiences like never before. It allows us to step into the shoes of others, offering a unique perspective and fostering empathy. One such remarkable VR project is “We Live Here,” a groundbreaking 360 documentary directed by Rose Troche. Premiering at the 77th Venice International Film Festival, this project sheds light on the pressing issue of homelessness through the captivating story of Rockey, a woman living in a tent in a Southern California park.
The Trailer
Meeting Mark Hovarth and Octulus Sponsorship:
Behind the scenes, the creation of “We Live Here” brought together two visionary minds. Rose Troche collaborated with Mark Hovarth, the founder of Invisible People, a platform dedicated to sharing the stories of individuals experiencing homelessness. Their partnership was made possible by Oculus, through their VR For Good initiative, which supports impactful virtual reality projects.
An Immersive Journey Into Rockey’s World:
“We Live Here” takes the viewer on a deeply immersive journey, placing them directly inside Rockey’s tent. Through interaction with the items within the tent, we gain insight into Rockey’s past, her present circumstances, and her aspirations for the future.
The documentary confronts us with the heartbreaking reality of the devastating impact a “sweep” can have on someone’s life, as Rockey is forced to flee her temporary shelter. It serves as a powerful reminder that homelessness can happen to anyone and that we are not as far removed from this experience as we may think.
The Power of Immersive Storytelling:
Rose Troche, the visionary director behind “We Live Here,” recognizes the transformative potential of immersive storytelling. She believes that VR offers a unique opportunity to delve deeper into narratives that traditional mediums may struggle to capture.
By positioning the viewer Rockey’s world, Troche aims to evoke empathy and challenge preconceptions about homelessness.
The Technology
The creation of “We Live Here” involved cutting-edge technology and a meticulous production and post-production process. To bring Rockey’s world to life, the team utilized state-of-the-art VR cameras and equipment, capturing immersive 360-degree footage that would transport viewers into her tent.
In post-production, skilled editors and technicians meticulously stitched together the footage and integrated interactive elements, allowing users to explore Rockey’s belongings and delve deeper into her story. The combination of advanced VR technology, precise production techniques, and thoughtful post-production work resulted in a seamless and immersive experience that truly brings the issue of homelessness to the forefront of viewers’ minds.
Unveiling the Complexities of Homelessness:
Through her work on “We Live Here,” Troche discovered that homelessness is not a one-dimensional issue.
Each person’s story is unique and multi-faceted, and she used various tools and techniques to represent the different stages of Rockey’s life. The documentary serves as a reminder that everyone deserves agency, respect, and a place to call home.
A Call to Action
The profound impact of “We Live Here” extends beyond the immersive experience. Troche hopes that the documentary will leave a lasting impression on viewers, urging them to see the humanity in those experiencing homelessness and take action to end this pervasive issue. By challenging our preconceptions and encouraging empathy, she believes we can make a difference in the lives of those who are marginalized.
Conclusion
“We Live Here” is a testament to the power of virtual reality and immersive storytelling in shedding light on pressing social issues. Through Rose Troche’s innovative direction and the collaboration with Mark Hovarth and Invisible People, the documentary offers a unique glimpse into the life of Rockey, highlighting the fragility of our own circumstances and the importance of empathy. As we continue to explore the boundaries of storytelling through technology, “We Live Here” serves as a poignant reminder that everyone deserves a place to call home.
