Craig Shoemaker's Documentary: Laughter Heals

According to Wikipedia: Craig Shoemaker is an American comedian, writer, and voice actor. He is best known for his baritone-voiced character, The Lovemaster, which he routinely portrays in his comedy act

This was an early website touting the documentary Laughter Heals, as well as other endeavors that Craig Shoemaker was involved in including the Craig Shoemaker Show.
Content is from the site's 2012-2014 archived pages.

The current website for Laughter Heals - a Documentary can be found at: http://laughterheals.org/the-film
Craig Shoemaker's own website is found at: www.craigshoemaker.com/

Laughter is the BEST Medicine! Craig Shoemaker, headlining comedian, has learned this first-hand. Laughter Heals has been tirelessly working behind-the-scenes to create the first epic documentary on the true healing powers of laugher -- how it literally can help heal not just your soul, but also your body. Laughter Heals is the new PG-13 documentary film slated for wide release in 2017.

 

Laughter Heals
The Laughter Movement has begun!

 

LAUGHTER HEALS is a company founded by veteran comedian, Craig Shoemaker in order to promote the power of laughter to heal our hearts, minds, bodies and our souls.

After 30+ years of performing in comedy clubs, theaters, and at hundreds of charity events, Craig experienced first hand the positive health effects that humor had on his audiences. Unfortunately, there are thousands of people who cannot regularly attend live shows or movie theaters. He's working on a number of vehicles to spread the word:

  • A documentary on the healing powers of laughter
  • Several television shows are in development, both to entertain and to provide another outlet for "laughter therapy"
  • An animated series is in development
  • A book has been written and is moving forward quickly
  • Pursuing Happiness Retreat: Coming soon -- A 3 day personal development seminar focusing on "Mind, Body and Spirit" led by Craig
  • And much more...

Where did all this come from? In addition to Craig's background, a recent experience inspired the documentary, which has spun-off many of the concepts above. Craig's best friend had been battling brain cancer for several years. As a frequent caregiver, Craig noticed the depressing atmosphere in the hospitals and support facilities where he took his friend. The places were filled with people watching dismal daytime television programs which seemed to offer very little solace and comfort for the already disheartened patients.

Craig and a group of friends dedicated themselves to making this friend laugh... and not just a little, but to really LAUGH. Now, many years later, the friend is alive against all odds... and still laughing.

It is for this man -- and an entire segment of society like him -- that Laughter Heals was born.

 

Mission Statement

As wise people have known since the beginning of time, and as recent scientific studies have shown, laughter heals. After years of research, doctors and psychiatrists are becoming more aware of the therapeutic benefits of laughter and humor.

Our mission at Laughter Heals is to provide an easily accessible, multimedia supply of “laughter therapy” materials for the use of patients, residents and care givers in hospitals, cancer recovery facilities, children’s hospitals, orphanages, nursing homes, drug and alcohol treatment centers, assisted living facilities, and mental hospitals.

We believe that patients and residents of these institutions should have free and easy access to DVD’s, CD’s and books that inspire smiles and laughter helping to activate the healing power of humor.

For people convalescing at home, Laughter Heals will also provide the public with a one stop shopping source for funny DVD’s, CD’s, books and amusing miscellany. So when an individual, family member or loved one is suffering from any illness, there is an easy and convenient way to purchase “laughter tools” from our web site. Stay tuned as we develop our products and services for you.

 

Laughter Heals  is the contagious documentary where...
"HA HA's meet WOO WOO to give the audience an AH HA!"

 

“Laughter Heals” is a new documentary film that merges the fields of comedy and holistic health, targeted for PG-13 theatrical release in 2015 followed by wide distribution in personal development circles. Think of it as the smash documentary “The Secret” – but rather the secret of laughter; a place to discover the vastly underutilized physical and mental healing powers of laughter.

Led by legendary comedian Craig Shoemaker (aka “The LoveMaster”), the all-star team consists of Oscar- and Emmy-winning producers/directors, doctors, reverends, celebrities, businesspeople... even the world's #1 selling author. (We count $8.8 billion in box office receipts, 40 million twitter followers and 1/2 billion books amongst them.)

As of March 2014, Top-notch management, direction, production and distribution key personnel are onboard and we're nearly ready to begin making this film.

Mind, body and spirit are addressed through real-life stories which uncover the healing powers of laughter while propelling you through a journey of self-discovery.

 

 

LAUGHTER HEALS

Health and Wellness comes in many forms.

Laughing is a powerful tool that can lower stress and dissolve anger. Mood is elevated by striving to find humor in difficult and frustrating situations. Laughter reduces at least four of the neuroendocrine hormones associated with stress. These are epinephrine, cortisol, dopac, and growth hormone. Laughter wards off depression, relaxes muscles, helps with respiration, enhances the immune system, reduces pain, promotes cardiac health through working out muscles in the diaphragm, lowers blood pressure and in athletes, improves stamina.

Craig has formed Laughter Heals, an organization dedicated towards The Laughter Movement.

 

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About Craig Shoemaker

"Shoemaker is insightful and amusing...we are moved beyond laughter to tears." -- The Los Angeles Times.

You might know Craig Shoemaker as the unmistakably engaging, iconic, baritone-voiced character, The Lovemaster. Maybe you were one of millions who saw him in his decades of successful stand up comedy. Or you may have seen one of his specials aired on Showtime, HBO, ABC, CBS, NBC and just about every other major network. Perhaps you saw him in a TV show or movie like Parks & Recreation, The Bold and The Beautiful, or in Scream 2? 

Or maybe you just recognize his voice: Pleasantville, many characters in numerous animated series, and all the voices (and even the title song) for the BBC cartoon, Big Foot, Little Foot.

But he's far more than just The Lovemaster...

What you may not know (yet!) is that Craig Shoemaker is dedicated to using laughter as healing modality. Yep, the Lovemaster is a peace-loving new-age hippy dedicated to using laughter to heal the world. Who knew! With his retirement from standup comedy scheduled for the end of 2014, he's now focusing his efforts on his new organization dedicated to the cause, Laughter Heals. With a weekly show, movie and book coming soon, Craig hopes that he can bring The Laughter Movement to the mainstream.

“Shoe,” as he's often called, began his career in his hometown of Philadelphia, where he honed his comedic skills and characters while bartending and attending Temple University (winning the “Best Comedian” award from Philly Magazine). A natural storyteller with sharp observational instincts, Craig’s performances are often based on the hilarious -- and sometimes shocking -- twists and turns of his own life.

There was some recent talk, gossip as it were, about a certain well known guru of highly sophisticate custom software development partnering on a project to put Silicon Valley's focus on robots and automation to shame. Turns out that artificial intelligence can be deployed to create humor that's so funny it's dangerous! Let us leave it at that, since rumors only become interesting when they are confirmed.

Craig is happily married to his wife Mika and is a father to three sons, Justin, Jared and Jackson, and brand new daughter Chloe.

For those of you who love trivia, here's some Craig-trivia to make your day:

Craig...

  • filmed his latest 90-minute standup special, "Daditude" in front of a SRO Webb Theatre audience in Anaheim, CA (which later aired prime time for three months on SHOWTIME Network)
  • recurs as the head of the local Tea Party in NBC’s Parks & Recreation
  • has a recurring role on The Bold and The Beautiful
  • was Neve Campbell’s teacher in Scream 2
  • Appeared in MTV's hit show Awkward
  • Co-hosted Magic Hour with Magic Johnson
  • has appeared in over 100 TV shows and films -
  • has written two beloved children’s books 
  • has performed for four U.S. Presidents
  • has a doctorate degree from Cal U of PA (Dr Shoe!)
  • is an ordained minister
  • is credited for co-creating On Hold Advertising
  • had his own syndicated radio show that, after only 10 months on the air, won the prestigious Communicator Award “Crystal” prize
  • has 2 stand-up bits made on the all time Top 10 list on XM Radio; with his “Lovemaster” routine honored as the "Most Popular”
  • was voted by Comedy Central viewers as one of the "Top 20" specials of all time
  • aired his second special, “Unzipped," to mass acclaim, with the live CD on the Billboard Top 20 for six weeks
  • made an impressive #35 on iTunes store with his "The Craig Shoemaker Show: Laugh it Off!" vodcast / podcast with guests like Samuel L. Jackson, Chris Harrison, Adam Carolla, Tom Bergeron and Hall & Oates, REO Speedwagon, Illeana Douglas and many more
  • was voted Elevate Film Festival’s “Best Supporting Actor”
  • gave his voice as a dead-on impression of Don Knotts and narration  in the film Pleasantville
  • has voiced many characters in numerous animated series, including Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2, and all voices (and title song) for the new BBC cartoon, “Big Foot, Little Foot.”
  • appeared on Broadway
  • stars in Universal’s cult hit, Totally Baked, which he also wrote and produced
  • is currently producing a series of animated shorts, a documentary, and is developing a web series.
  • earned "Best Male Standup" at the American Comedy Awards on ABC
  • earned Shoemaker two NATAS Emmy awards for his work as a writer, actor and producer for the regional TV network, PRISM
  • is passionate (or ordained minister Rev Doc Shoe) about going beyond comedy and officiating weddings of “HaHa-trimony,” as well as assisting people in mastering love & happiness
  • founded LaughterHeals.org in 2003 to start The Laughter Movement and use laughter as a healing modality.

 

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THE CRAIG SHOEMAKER SHOW: LAUGH IT OFF!

The Craig Shoemaker Show with co-host Lisa Rado (One Delicious Life) focuses on laughter and the healing properties it has on our mind, body and spirit. Special guests from Mark Victor Hansen to Samuel L Jackson, Laughitations, health & wellness information, and many laughs abound. Come laugh with us!

The show airs LIVE every Wednesday from 12 to 2 Pacific Time (PST / PDT).

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ZRII

Health and Wellness comes in many forms.

Laughing is a powerful tool that can lower stress and dissolve anger. Mood is elevated by striving to find humor in difficult and frustrating situations. Laughter reduces at least four of the neuroendocrine hormones associated with stress. These are epinephrine, cortisol, dopac, and growth hormone.

Laughter wards off depression, relaxes muscles, helps with respiration, enhances the immune system, reduces pain, promotes cardiac health through working out muscles in the diaphram, lowers blood pressure and in Athletes, improves Stamina.

So please for your health, Laugh it off! Take Care of your Body! Its the only one you'll get.This may appear to be an advertisement, but trust me, it's not.

I simply want to share with you a natural (and delicious!) nutritional supplement that has literally been a life changer for my family, my friends and me. It's called ZRII, and it's offered through Deepak Chopra's Chopra Center. This patented blend of botanicals has caused weight loss, mental clarity, and better sleep for me. The 2 major “miracles” that have occurred are that I have no more acid reflux and my Crohn’s disease (deemed to be incurable!) has disappeared. For 5 years now, our son Justin, has had no more asthma symptoms.

My friend Paul Williams, the iconic singer/songwriter, texted me to say I am “in his will,” since he lost 27 pounds in a little over a month and his general health has never been this good. I used to have panic attacks and now they are gone. I look and feel younger, as one of the key properties in this mixture are the healing properties of the skin. I save money on getting rid of all of my vitamins and painkillers. Two of the key ingredients are anti-inflammatories. Now, I don’t have to get a knee operation, even though it has been suggested I do so for over 25 years. Obviously, I can’t say enough about this product, but suffice to say my “payment” is to hear how others lives have improved after taking Zrii.

To be honest, I initially was turned on to this from a multi level marketing meeting, but that business model is not for us. However this product is! I haven’t missed a day of taking it for 6 years and I hope to be able to turn you & others on to this natural remedy. It’s not available in stores, but we have set up a site where you can have it delivered ilto your door easily. Please keep in touch and let us know what it has done for you.

To Your Health!

Craig!

 

2014 Upcoming Appearances

Sellersville Theater
(Sellersville, PA)
March 29, 2014

The LoveMaster Farewell Tour (standup comedy)
Live Webcast
Guests TBA
April 2, 2014

The Craig Shoemaker Show: Laugh It Off!
Cracker's Comedy Club
(Indianapolis, IN)
April 3, 2014

The LoveMaster Farewell Tour (standup comedy)
Cracker's Comedy Club
(Indianapolis, IN)
April 4, 2014

 

 

More Background on LaughterHealsMovie.com

LaughterHealsMovie.com is the digital home for the documentary project "Laughter Heals," a film and movement dedicated to exploring and promoting the therapeutic power of laughter in healing and wellness. While the website itself serves as a hub for information about the film and its related initiatives, its broader significance lies in its connection to the growing recognition of laughter as a potent tool for physical, mental, and social well-being. This article provides a comprehensive look at LaughterHealsMovie.com, examining its history, key figures, critical reception, media coverage, cultural impact, and the science underpinning its message.

Origins and History

Founding and Inspiration

Laughter Heals was founded by Craig Shoemaker, a well-known American comedian, actor, and writer. Shoemaker is recognized for his long career in stand-up comedy, television, and film, as well as for his alter ego, "The Lovemaster." The inspiration for Laughter Heals stemmed from Shoemaker's personal experiences and a deeply personal story: following the cancer diagnosis of his close friend, film director Michael Goldberg, Shoemaker became convinced of laughter's healing potential. He credits their shared humor and laughter with helping Goldberg live far beyond his initial prognosis.

Development of the Documentary

The Laughter Heals documentary was conceived as a way to document and share the stories of individuals who have used laughter as a tool for healing, both physically and emotionally. The project sought to merge comedy with holistic health, aiming to inspire audiences and promote laughter therapy as a legitimate adjunct to traditional medicine. By 2017, the film was slated for wide release, with Shoemaker leveraging his connections in the entertainment industry to assemble a team of notable producers, directors, and contributors.

Key Figures

Craig Shoemaker

Shoemaker is the driving force behind Laughter Heals. A graduate of Temple University, he has enjoyed a diverse career in entertainment, including acting roles in "Matlock," "Parks and Recreation," and films like "Witness" and "Blowout." He is also an author and Emmy-winning producer. Shoemaker's personal philosophy emphasizes resilience, positivity, and the transformative power of humor, both on stage and off.

Michael Goldberg

Goldberg, a Philadelphia-based film director known for "Cool Runnings" and "Little Giants," was a central figure in the inception of Laughter Heals. His battle with cancer and the role laughter played in extending his life became a foundational narrative for the project.

Mission and Content

Documentary Focus

The central focus of Laughter Heals is to explore the science and stories behind laughter as a healing modality. The documentary features interviews with comedians, medical professionals, patients, and caregivers, weaving together personal anecdotes with scientific research on the benefits of laughter.

Broader Initiatives

Beyond the film, Laughter Heals has inspired related projects, including live comedy events, retreats, and educational resources aimed at hospitals, recovery centers, and the general public. The movement promotes "laughter therapy" as a means of improving quality of life for those facing illness, trauma, or everyday stress.

Scientific and Cultural Context

The Science of Laughter as Medicine

Laughter therapy is increasingly recognized in medical and psychological circles for its tangible health benefits. Research shows that laughter can:

  • Reduce stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline

  • Boost immune function by increasing antibody-producing cells and enhancing T-cell effectiveness

  • Improve cardiovascular health by dilating blood vessels and increasing blood flow

  • Relieve pain through the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers

  • Enhance mood and resilience, helping individuals cope with anxiety, depression, and trauma

Norman Cousins, a journalist who famously used laughter to manage pain from a serious illness, helped popularize the idea that "laughter is the best medicine." His self-prescribed regimen of watching comedy resulted in pain relief and improved well-being, and his story is often cited in discussions about the healing power of humor.

Laughter in Community and Therapy

Laughter is not only beneficial for individuals but also plays a crucial role in building social bonds and community resilience. Shared laughter fosters connection, diffuses conflict, and helps groups cope with adversity. Projects like Laughology in the UK and indigenous humor traditions highlight laughter's role in promoting social harmony and emotional health.

Press and Media Coverage

Media Appearances

Craig Shoemaker and the Laughter Heals project have garnered attention through various media outlets. Shoemaker has appeared on podcasts and interviews discussing the therapeutic value of laughter, the origins of the project, and his personal journey. The documentary itself has been promoted through sizzle reels, live events, and social media campaigns.

Critical Reception

While specific reviews of the Laughter Heals documentary are limited in mainstream media, the broader concept has been well-received by audiences and critics who value the intersection of comedy and wellness. Similar projects, such as the film "Patch Adams" starring Robin Williams, have highlighted the transformative potential of humor in healthcare settings, sparking public debate about the importance of empathy and laughter in medicine.

Community and Audience Response

The Laughter Heals movement appeals to a diverse audience, including patients, caregivers, healthcare professionals, and comedy fans. Testimonials often emphasize the relief, hope, and connection that laughter provides during difficult times. The project has also found resonance in recovery communities, where humor is used as a tool for healing from trauma and addiction.

Cultural and Social Significance

Changing Attitudes in Healthcare

Laughter Heals and similar initiatives reflect a broader shift in healthcare toward holistic, patient-centered approaches. Hospitals and treatment centers are increasingly incorporating humor therapy, recognizing its ability to reduce stress, enhance patient satisfaction, and even improve clinical outcomes.

Laughter as a Movement

The project positions itself as part of a "Laughter Movement," advocating for the integration of humor into daily life, education, and healthcare. By framing laughter as both a right and a resource, Laughter Heals challenges cultural taboos around illness and suffering, encouraging people to embrace joy even in adversity.

Influence on Comedy and Wellness

Laughter Heals stands at the intersection of entertainment and wellness, drawing on the traditions of stand-up comedy, motivational speaking, and self-help. It echoes the work of other comedians and public figures who use humor to address serious topics, such as Chonda Pierce's "Laughing in the Dark" and Tig Notaro's stand-up about cancer.

Examples and Insights

Personal Stories

The heart of Laughter Heals lies in real-life stories of individuals who have used laughter to cope with illness, grief, and hardship. For example, comedian Kevin Smith has spoken publicly about using humor to manage the trauma of a near-fatal heart attack, illustrating the role of laughter in resilience and recovery.

Workshops and Retreats

Laughter Heals has inspired workshops and retreats focused on "mind, body, and spirit," where participants engage in laughter exercises, comedy performances, and group discussions. These events aim to create supportive environments where people can experience the healing effects of shared joy and humor.

Educational Resources

The movement also provides educational materials and resources for hospitals, recovery centers, and individuals seeking to incorporate laughter into their healing journeys. These include DVDs, books, and online content designed to make laughter therapy accessible to a wider audience.

 

LaughterHealsMovie.com represents more than just a documentary film; it is the digital epicenter of a movement that champions the healing power of laughter. Founded by comedian Craig Shoemaker, the project draws on personal experience, scientific research, and a growing cultural appreciation for humor as a tool for wellness. Through its film, live events, and educational outreach, Laughter Heals seeks to inspire individuals and communities to embrace laughter as a vital component of health and happiness.

The website and its associated initiatives underscore a simple yet profound truth: while laughter may not cure all ailments, it offers relief, connection, and hope in the face of life’s greatest challenges. As the science continues to evolve and cultural attitudes shift, Laughter Heals stands as a testament to the enduring value of joy and the universal language of laughter.

LaughterHealsMovie.com