Why do we laugh? Is it learned? Instinct? Nature? Nurture? Is it universally recognized? These and many other questions are asked and answered in the eye-opening documentary, Laughology.
Journalist and filmmaker Albert Nerenberg makes it his personal mission to find out the origins of why we laugh, and what benefits laughter can have for an individual and on a society. Nerenberg travels the globe in search of answers and finds some interesting groups and people who shed light on this curious subject.
The documentary isn’t about humor or comedy. Both are subjective and vary depending on where you are in the world. The film explores the essence of laughter, what species are capable of laughter, and the way laughter is incorporated into society through social norms and mores.
Laughology also explores the historical significance of laughter. Did you know that in the past laughter was considered rude and was frowned upon? It’s true. Apparently polite society felt that laughter was the mark of an uncouth individual. Bet they were fun to have at a party!
You’ll also find out about Holy Laughter, Laughter Epidemics (more fun than H1N1), Laughter Parties, and Laughter Yoga. There’s plenty to learn and explore in this compact documentary that is a little over an hour in length.
Bonus features include over 40 minutes of bonus footage and interviews.
For an insightful look at the who, what, why, when, where, and how or laughing, check out Laughology!
For more info, check out the official site by clicking here.
Laughology is available September 7, 2010 on DVD!