Visual artist Leonard ‘Porkchop’ Zimmerman could have given in to the darkness that encroached on him from all sides following the untimely passing of his partner, Brian. Instead, he chose to channel his grief into art, creating numerous paintings of robots involved in exploits that run the gamut from mundane to profound. Out of this grew the ‘Happy’ campaign: the robot drawing that became a worldwide phenomenon as a colorful reminder of the transformational power of embracing joy. HAPPY is an irresistible and inspirational portrait of one man’s journey through the storm in order to share with us the sunshine he found on the other side.

Happy: A Small Film with a Big Smile is part of the Cream City Cinema Program. Cream City Cinema puts the “Milwaukee” in Milwaukee Film Festival by showcasing the best new work from Milwaukee-based filmmakers. Wacky, provocative, informative, and entertaining, the films in this program are as diverse as our city. Come show your love and pride for our hometown filmmakers.

Sponsored by: Andy Nunemaker

Community Partners: Coalition of Photographic Arts, Haggerty Museum of Art, UWM Department of Art History/UWM Art History Gallery