On Sight

This is On Sight's hub for the movie, live events, and content

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about

Dr. Micah E. Johnson is an associate professor of Family Medicine at UCLA. He is a medical sociologist focused on the social determinants of behavioral health, particularly addiction and violence. Dr. Johnson has authored 30 scientific articles and multiple books, including Never Had a Friend and The Police Youth Dialogues. He was awarded four million dollars in active research grants from the National Institutes of Health. His work has been cited by the New York Times, ESPN, Senator Bernie Sanders, Charlamagne tha God, and others. He is the recipient of the 2023 Outstanding Research Achievement Award at the University of South Florida and the 2023 Community Peacebuilder of the Year Award from the River Phoenix Center for Peacebuilding. Dr. Johnson’s research and advocacy have helped reduce decades of prison sentences and overturn death penalties for individuals with behavioral health needs in over 100 capital and felony cases throughout the country. He is also pioneering the use of edutainment lectures as interventions to engage diverse communities and enhance behavioral health.

About

The Film

On Sight is a groundbreaking dramedy-based behavioral-health film written and performed by Dr. Micah Johnson, a UCLA professor and survivor of gun violence. The film blends comedy, culture, Hip Hop energy, and scientific insight to teach emotional-regulation and de-escalation tools to youth and adults impacted by violence. Through a narrative built on real stories and lived experiences, On Sight offers a powerful exploration of trauma, resilience, and transformation. Its purpose is to spark conversation, strengthen mental-health literacy, and demonstrate a new model for how storytelling can advance public health. The film innovates by merging academic research with cinema, using culturally grounded humor and poetic performance to make evidence-based behavioral tools accessible to communities who are often overlooked.

The Workbook

The On Sight Workbook is a companion book designed to help families, youth, and community members deepen their understanding of the tools introduced in the film. It breaks down each technique, activity, and concept in a practical and engaging way, allowing individuals to explore these skills in their homes, schools, and neighborhoods. The workbook functions as a home-based and peer-supported intervention, guiding readers through reflection, practice, and conversation. Whether used independently or alongside the film, it provides a structured pathway for applying On Sight’s behavioral-health tools in everyday life.

Workshops

On Sight Workshops follow a “train-the-trainer” model that empowers community members, violence interventionists, educators, families, and youth leaders to bring the On Sight approach into their own spaces. These workshops unpack the film’s tools, techniques, and curriculum, translating them into step-by-step strategies that participants can teach to others. Each session builds capacity within the community, ensuring that skills such as emotional regulation, conflict de-escalation, and healthy communication spread through peer networks. The workshops are designed as follow-ups to the film and workbook, creating a sustainable cycle of learning, sharing, and community-driven healing.

Live Community Performances

Following the world premiere, On Sight will host select live performances to bring the full theatrical experience directly to communities who need it most. These special events will take place in juvenile detention facilities, alternative schools, adult schools, camps, churches, and organizations serving youth affected by gun violence. The live performance offers a rare, high-energy, interactive space where participants experience the story, tools, and message in real time. By bringing the performance into institutions and community settings, On Sight becomes a direct intervention—using art, connection, and education to inspire safer, healthier, and more hopeful futures.