Billy Flanigan: The Happiest Man on Earth

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Billy Flanigan: The Happiest Man on Earth

2022

1h 25m

Documentary

Biography

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3 Reviews

97%

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Fewer than 50 Ratings

Billy Flanigan has been called a lot of names -- "Mr. Disney," "Living Legend," "The Man with the Thousand-Watt Smile," "Husband," "Dad," "Grandpa'... and "Queer." The longest-contracted Walt Disney World Performer (40 years), Billy has entertained millions from around the globe. When COVID forced the Parks to close and Performers became unemployed, Billy embarked on a 7,000-mile cycling trek, delivering "Flanigrams" to brighten days. His singing and dancing telegrams were featured on Good Morning America, The Doctors, and in People Magazine. But out of the spotlight, Billy is forced to confront his biggest antagonist and his daunting past. Through candid interviews and never-before-seen archival footage, Billy pulls back the curtain to reveal his true self, for all to see.

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Todd Jorgenson

Cinemalogue

As a tribute first and foremost, the project shines a deserving spotlight on a man whose infectious enthusiasm feels genuine and certainly fits the brand.

Dec 30, 2022

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Alan French

Sunshine State Cineplex

There are moments of healing and emotional outpouring for people who have put their soul into a unique side of the entertainment landscape. For those in Central Florida, its impossible to ignore the power of their words.

Rated: 6/10

Oct 17, 2022

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Christopher Lloyd

The Film Yap

A man who's spent his entire career performing in Disney World stage shows may not seem like a prime candidate for a documentary. But sometimes the purest stories are the most compelling.

Rated: 4/5

Oct 5, 2022

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micah b

I love finding new Documentaries to watch and I had high hopes after seeing the reviews for this one, but honestly it is just OK. Its named "The Happiest Man on Earth" but the guy spends most of the Documentary crying. The people that really should be celebrated in the Documentary are his kids and his ex-wife. They are the real heroes of this story.

Rated 3 out of 5 stars

03/31/23

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Christina C

Billy's energy and outlook on the world is infectious. He is the embodiment of the Disney spirit, and it's no wonder why he's the longest running performer in the parks. What started as a fun, upbeat story about a theme-park performer spreading cheer during a pandemic, turned into a deeper biopic that explores what it means to be comfortable in your own skin, and live a truly authentic life. Billy's story is inspiring, and this film captures his energy and heart perfectly. Take some time to find some joy from an unconventional everyday celebrity of sorts.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

10/12/22

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mary g

Heartwarming, heartbreaking, and an inspirational reminder that there is no act of kindness too small to make a difference in people's lives. There are very few films that I can say made me laugh AND cry, and this is one of them. The Happiest Man on Earth is a documentary in form, but plays as effortlessly and engagingly as a Disney tale of facing down challenges big and small, shining a bright light into the world despite our own struggles, and ultimately embracing who we are. There is truly a story here for everyone - Disney fans, entertainers, artists, family members, friends, human beings - and I'm looking forward to coming back for my next watch.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

03/31/23

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Audience Member

Just what the world needs right now. Funny, heartfelt and an emotional roller coaster. Highly recommend

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

10/08/22

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Bluebird

I'm verklempt, let me compose myself and try to find the words... This little gem of a movie will be the one you keep thinking about. I bet you will walk a little more upright and smile at a stranger, maybe call your immune compromised friend who has been basically at home for the past 2+ years. At least that's what I did. It really is about the little thing that one person can do to brighten up a day. Treat yourself and watch this film and then do a little thing for someone else whose smile may be hiding a few tears.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

10/08/22

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Cullen Douglas

Director

Billy Flanigan

Self

Cullen Douglas

Writer

Randy Goodwin

Producer

Randy Goodwin

Executive Producer

John VonMutius

Cinematographer

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Billy Flanigan: The Happiest Man on Earth: Trailer 1

1:35

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Synopsis

Billy Flanigan has been called a lot of names -- "Mr. Disney," "Living Legend," "The Man with the Thousand-Watt Smile," "Husband," "Dad," "Grandpa'... and "Queer." The longest-contracted Walt Disney World Performer (40 years), Billy has entertained millions from around the globe. When COVID forced the Parks to close and Performers became unemployed, Billy embarked on a 7,000-mile cycling trek, delivering "Flanigrams" to brighten days. His singing and dancing telegrams were featured on Good Morning America, The Doctors, and in People Magazine. But out of the spotlight, Billy is forced to confront his biggest antagonist and his daunting past. Through candid interviews and never-before-seen archival footage, Billy pulls back the curtain to reveal his true self, for all to see.

Director: Cullen Douglas
Producer: Randy Goodwin
Screenwriter: Cullen Douglas
Production Co: 12th Angel Productions
Genre: Documentary, Biography
Original Language: English
Release Date (Streaming): Oct 7, 2022
Runtime: 1h 25m

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