The Public

Emilio Estevez writes, directs and stars in this American drama about a library that becomes a shelter for homeless people who rely on the building as a refuge from the cold. Following several deaths due to a cold snap in Cincinnati a number of homeless people, led by the loquacious Jackson (Michael K. Williams), refuse to leave the library when it is closing time.

Librarian Stuart Goodson (Estevez) sympathises with their plight and agrees to let them spend the night there even though his colleague, Myra (Jena Malone), is against the idea. Once the authorities become aware of the situation a stand-off ensues with police negotiator Bill Ramstead (Alec Baldwin) attempting to remove the homeless people from the building in a peaceful manner. The cast also features Christian Slater, Jeffrey Wright and Taylor Schilling.