Shining a Light on Miami's Housing Crisis Through Indie Documentary Storytelling

About the Author, Dominic Easter

Dominic is an award-winning cinematographer and Director of Photography whose style has been praised for its clever & tasteful approach. His work has a seductively cinematic feel, speaking to his ability to create classically beautiful visuals with a contemporary aesthetic.

Dominic has lensed both commercial and narrative projects for global brands such as HBO MAX, ESPN, Bacardi, NFL Films, Will Smith, Adidas, Fuse Tv, Ford Motor Company, Verizon, Afropunk, and The Miami Marlins, to name a few. Easter's current project, 'Don't Let It In,' is a feature horror film that

was picked up by Canvas Films as a short and will be distributed on all major streaming platforms by Mar Vista Entertainment in 2025. Born and raised in Maryland, Dominic moved to South Florida for film school. He worked his way through the film ranks, from camera house to cam op, to where he is today, a sought after Director of Photography whose integrity and capacity for creating powerful visuals has garnered him a reputation of being a skillful and knowledgeable cinematographer.

Miami is celebrated for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and culturally diverse communities. However, beneath this tropical paradise lies a pressing issue that impacts many residents: the housing crisis. A dedicated production team is creating an indie, feature-length documentary that aims to uncover the complexities of Miami's housing landscape. This ambitious project consists of eight 10-minute episodes. By engaging viewers continuously and in segments, the team ensures that the content is accessible to a wide audience.

Director Yoav Attias of Brick City Film, known for his impactful work on "Fault Lines," is at the helm of this initiative. That film examined the housing crisis in San Francisco and resonated deeply with audiences. Inspired by its success, David Martin, the owner of Terra Group, recognized Yoav's extraordinary ability to tell vital stories. Given that Miami's housing situation closely mirrors San Francisco's, David felt that Yoav was the ideal choice to tackle this important narrative.

One of our interview set ups.

The production team consists of just four dedicated members: Director Yoav Attias, Director of Photography Dominic Easter, Assistant Camera/Gaffer Keith Rando, and Production Assistant Tanzanier Wilson. This small crew enables quick turnaround times for shoots, crucial when working with busy schedules of key figures in Miami’s housing and construction industries. Their agility allows the team to capture essential stories that need an audience.

Our fearless leader, Yoav Attias

As the crew dives into the heart of Miami's housing crisis, they employ state-of-the-art Sony cameras—FX3, FX6, and FX9—equipped with PL-mount adapters to utilize high-quality cinema glass. The choice of a limited set of Sigma Cine Primes ensures stunning visuals that enhance the storytelling. For instance, vibrant shots of community events or interviews with families will allow viewers to connect emotionally with the subject matter. This blend of skilled cinematography and compelling narratives aims to create a powerful viewing experience.

BTS of our slim crew.

Production is set to run through fall, with a winter premiere planned. This timeline extends beyond merely capturing footage; it's about weaving stories of individuals and families affected by the housing crisis. Recent economic changes have left many questioning the future of housing in Miami. For example, according to the Florida Housing Coalition, over 40% of Miami residents are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of their income on housing. This documentary aims to address this urgent issue and provide a platform for voices often overlooked.

The stories captured in this documentary represent real experiences that resonate with the community. The film will delve into various aspects of the housing crisis, including affordability, displacement, and gentrification. By featuring local voices, like a single parent struggling to find affordable housing or a longtime resident facing displacement due to rising rents, the team hopes to foster a deeper understanding of these challenges. It's vital to put faces to the statistics, showcasing how systemic factors contribute to the crisis.

Some filming took place at University of Miami.

As the production moves forward, the team remains committed to a socially conscious approach. This project isn’t solely about making a film; it aims to spark conversation and inspire action. For instance, by highlighting successful community initiatives aimed at combating homelessness, the documentary sheds light on positive solutions. The hope is that by addressing Miami's housing crisis, audiences will feel motivated to engage and advocate for meaningful change.

In an era where housing is frequently regarded as a commodity rather than a basic human right, this documentary serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of community and the necessity for equitable solutions. Housing crises are not unique to Miami; they're a growing concern in urban areas across the country. By documenting the struggles faced by Miami residents, the film will strike a chord with viewers nationwide.

As the team gears up for the winter premiere, there's a palpable sense of excitement and urgency. The documentary promises to offer a thought-provoking exploration of an issue that affects countless lives. By combining powerful storytelling with captivating visuals, the production aims to create a lasting impact and encourage viewers to reflect on their own communities.

The indie documentary about Miami's housing crisis is more than just a film; it serves as a call to action. With a dedicated team and a focus on social awareness, this project seeks to illuminate the challenges faced by residents and inspire change. As production unfolds, it will undoubtedly contribute to the ongoing conversation about housing and its significance in our society. Stay tuned for the winter premiere, and prepare to be inspired by the stories that matter.

The journey of this documentary is only beginning, promising an engaging and enlightening experience for all who watch. Through the lens of this small team, the hope is to not only inform but also empower viewers to participate actively in the dialogue surrounding housing in Miami and beyond.