Norwegian filmmakers’ documentary spotlights homelessness in Anchorage, aims for Alaska screening
ANCHORAGE, Alaska (KTUU) - Two Norwegian filmmakers say their debut documentary, Anchorage Welcomes You (https://youtu.be/OGGP3Qu31Zw), is meant to put viewers face-to-face with people living on Anchorage streets — not to prescribe a political fix, but to 'describe the situation' and the human stakes behind a crisis visible across the city.
‘I think the core story is to shine a light on the prevalence of the problem that is in Anchorage when it comes to drug abuse and homelessness,’ said director Peter Gupta. ‘But it’s also to show how people are capable of taking a wrong turn in life and coming back from it.’
The film was shot over multiple trips spanning roughly two years, beginning with a summer 2022 visit, followed by a winter 2024 return and a completion last fall. Gupta, along with editor/cinematographer Rasmus Aarskog Sætersdal, said the project grew out of his solo canoe trip down the Yukon River, where he saw communities ravaged by drugs and alcohol. He called the trip a transformative experience and later met Anchorage resident Erinn Leann, who became central to the film.
Sætersdal explained that filming required clear rules and consent. They spent time walking the same routes and meeting the same people repeatedly, emphasizing trust as foundational. Gupta highlighted that the filmmakers spent time understanding Anchorage’s context before reaching out to participants. The film’s title, drawn from the weathered sign at the city’s entrance, reflects a duality—between Anchorage’s image and the encampments beneath it.
What makes homelessness in Anchorage distinct is its complexity, shaped by social fragmentation and hopelessness. Gupta described the film as a reflection of broader societal issues, noting that while the U.S. focus often emphasizes material poverty, Anchorage’s narrative highlights a deeper character. Alaska’s frontier identity continues to inspire people seeking escape, drawing them to the region through imagination and escapism.
The filmmakers aim to spark conversations without presenting a single solution. They believe the film will make the homeless appear resourceful and capable of change, rather than dictating what to do with the issue. Their goal is to bring the film to Alaska and beyond, navigating distribution challenges but still finding creative ways to connect with audiences. Sætersdal emphasized that Alaska remains a place that sticks to the viewer, making it an unshakable anchor in their journey.
This film challenges conventional storytelling by prioritizing human stories over political agendas. It invites viewers to see homelessness not just as a crisis, but as a testament to resilience and potential. By focusing on individuals and their journeys, the documentary adds a layer of empathy and insight that traditional news often overlooks. Ultimately, the film serves as a call to reflect on the human condition and the power of stories to shape our understanding of the world.
