With a sympathetic view of homelessness and undocumented people, The Sanctuary offers insight into social justice and the many levels of ICE (United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement) and its directive to round up and deport non-U.S. citizens. Based on the successful short film of the same title, this feature-length film version of The Sanctuary is directed and written by Maynard Bagang, who also stars as the lead, James. Finding sanctuary in homelessness brings James back from his trauma, and he recognizes he no longer wants to be trapped by grief, “finding purpose beyond the pain.” The Sanctuary lacks backstories, leading to story holes and underdeveloped characters that are apparent throughout the film’s direction and purpose—actors seem to stumble over lines and speak without connection. Yet, even with an ending that leaves one baffled and sad, The Sanctuary has its place in raising awareness for very real societal problems that need to be addressed.