Discover the power of humor, positivity, and resilience.
Watch the film through April 25 then join us for a Live Virtual Q&A on Zoom
💬 Saturday, April 25
🕐 11:00 AM PT | 12:00 PM MT | 1:00 PM CT | 2:00 PM ET
https://calpoly.zoom.us/j/87130432191
Join Allen Klein and filmmaker Sky Bergman for a live conversation via Zoom about the making of the film, the power of humor, and what’s ahead. Bring your questions!
The link will become active 30 minutes prior to the event start time.
Please note: The April 25 event is a conversation and Q&A only.
You’re among the first to receive a special work-in-progress preview of The Jollytologist®. Join us in making this film a reality.
Donate to The Jollytologist®
If you prefer your donation be tax-deductible, please click here.
While the film is well underway, there is still significant work ahead before it is fully completed and ready for PBS broadcast and film festivals.
This project is a true collaboration. Our current team includes a director, cinematographer, editor, two production assistants, an intern, and an Impact & Partnerships Producer. In the months ahead, we will also need to hire a colorist and sound engineer, secure PBS station relations support to pitch the film nationwide, complete the specialized formatting required for PBS delivery, create captioning, license music, obtain rights for historical footage, and fund outreach and publicity.
In addition, submitting to film festivals and traveling to promote the film are essential steps in helping this story reach the widest possible audience. All of this requires resources.
If this work-in-progress screening moves you, makes you smile, or reminds you of the power of humor in difficult times, we hope you will consider making a donation to help bring the film across the finish line and out into the world.
Every gift matters. We are deeply grateful for donations of any size.
Donors of $250 or more will be acknowledged on our website.
Donors of $2,500 or more will receive credit in the film.
Thank you for being part of this journey.With appreciation and heartfelt thanks,—Allen and Sky
In a world often overshadowed by hardship, Allen Klein—a self-proclaimed "Jollytologist®" — shows how humor, laughter, and positivity can transform lives, even in the face of adversity.
Why This Film Matters
The Jollytologist® reminds us that laughter isn’t just a reaction—it’s a powerful tool for hope and healing.
This film is more than a portrait of one man’s life—it’s a call to rediscover joy in the most unexpected places. Allen Klein has spent decades helping people cope with loss, illness, and adversity through humor. His message is both timely and timeless: even in our darkest hours, we can find light through humor and laughter.
The Jollytologist® celebrates the human spirit and shows how small moments of positivity and humor—what Allen calls “mini-miracles”—can transform our lives. Whether you’re facing personal challenges or just looking for a smile, this film offers inspiration, wisdom, and joy.
Allen, putting on the ritz at age 5
Meet Allen Klein
Born and raised in the Bronx, Allen Klein has spent a lifetime helping people find humor in life’s most difficult moments. After losing his wife when she was 34 to a rare liver disease, Allen realized that humor had been one of their most powerful coping tools—and he’s been sharing that insight with the world ever since.
A former scenic designer for CBS television in New York (including the Captain Kangaroo Show), Allen swapped whimsical sets for uplifting stories. He went on to earn a master’s degree in human development with a focus on therapeutic humor, and became the world’s first “Jollytologist®”—yes, it’s a real title, and yes, he lives up to it.
He’s authored over 30 books, including The Healing Power of Humor, The Courage to Laugh, Embracing Life After Loss and The AWE Factor. His work has been translated into 11 languages, and he’s brought his message of healing and hilarity to audiences across the globe—from corporate boardrooms to hospice centers.
Because sometimes the power of humor and laughter is the best medicine.
Our Creative Crew
SKY BERGMAN
FILMMAKER
The filmmaking is being led by Sky Bergman, a nationally broadcast PBS filmmaker whose work has touched the lives of millions. Her film Lives Well Lived, currently airing on PBS, celebrates the wisdom of older adults from 75-100. Her latest documentary, The Mochi Movie includes George Takei, perhaps best known for his role in Star Trek.
Sky creates films that connect, inspire, and celebrate the richness of the human experience. At the heart of every film is a belief in the impact of shared stories to foster empathy, understanding, and a more connected world.
To see more of Sky’s work, you can visit her website.
JAIME HEINTZ
EDITOR
Jaime Ryan Heintz is a film and television writer, producer, director, cinematographer and editor. His credits include the Emmy Award-winning documentary series Through the Wormhole with Morgan Freeman and the independent feature film Betty I Am. Recently, he worked with Apple for several years developing new technology for the entertainment industry.
He currently runs a weekly YouTube channel devoted to film history and analysis called Rental Report Review. He holds a BFA in film production from California State University Long Beach. He lives in Pasadena, CA.
The Jollytologist® is officially almost done! We're aiming for a film festival premiere in May 2026 and a PBS airdate in May 2027. We can’t wait to share the journey with our community. Want to be the first to hear exclusive updates? Subscribe below and stay in the loop!