This Tenderloin film vanished after airing 60 years ago. Its back.

Robert Zagone's documentary "Drugs in the Tenderloin" resurfaces for a screening after being nearly lost for 50 years. Originally aired on national television, the film documents the lives of marginalized youth in San Francisco's Tenderloin during the 1960s. Zagone sought to uplift rather than exploit the subjects, providing a rare glimpse into their struggles with drug addiction, mental health, and identity. The film features interviews with individuals from the Tenderloin, capturing their humanity amid challenging circumstances. A screening event at the Roxie Theater, in collaboration with the Tenderloin Museum, will include a Q&A with the filmmaker, now 87.

The film's raw audio and visuals reflect the gritty reality of the streets. This documentary serves as a time capsule of a pivotal era, remaining relevant to today's societal issues. It highlights the ongoing challenges faced by disenfranchised communities.