Award-Winning documentary explores how one man’s creativity shaped Hollywood’s most beloved and iconic comedies
From the Heart Productions, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting independent filmmakers, proudly announces Celebrating Laughter, The Life and Films of Colin Higgins as the winner of the Roy W. Dean Film Grant for Summer 2024. This grant, which champions unique films that make a meaningful contribution to society, includes $3,500 in cash and thousands more in valuable donated film products and services.
Directed by Emmy-winning filmmaker Nicholas Eliopoulos, Celebrating Laughter is a warm and inspiring tribute to Colin Higgins, the creative force behind such beloved films as Harold and Maude, 9 to 5, Foul Play, Silver Streak, and The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas. Through interviews with Hollywood icons including Jane Fonda, Dolly Parton, Lily Tomlin, Dom DeLuise, and Charles Durning, the documentary explores the life and legacy of a man whose humor, compassion, and artistry continue to touch generations.
“This film beautifully captures the essence of Colin Higgins’ remarkable life and legacy,” said Carole Dean, President of From the Heart Productions. “Nicholas Eliopoulos has created a heartfelt tribute to an artist whose work brought joy and meaning to millions. We are thrilled to support a project that not only entertains but also uplifts and inspires.”
In addition to the cash award, the Roy W. Dean Film Grant provides the winner with:
- $1,295 Scholarship to Writers Boot Camp
- $500 in grip, lighting, or expendables from Filmtools
- A 30% Discount for Music Post Production Services from Jerry Deaton at AudioKut
- $750 in Grant Writing Services from Karen Everett of New Doc Editing
- And much more from a host of generous donors committed to supporting independent filmmakers.
About the Film: Celebrating Laughter, The Life and Films of Colin Higgins
The documentary chronicles Colin Higgins’ extraordinary journey from his childhood in Australia to becoming one of Hollywood’s most celebrated screenwriters and directors. Set against the backdrop of the Vietnam War and the Gay Rights Movement, Higgins’ life and work reflect the challenges and triumphs of his era. Narrated by Cybill Shepherd and Colin’s brother, Brian Higgins, the film captures his humor, spirituality, and lasting influence on the film industry.
Growing up in the 60’s and 70’s, his life and work were shaped amidst the turmoil of the Vietnam War and the burgeoning Gay rights movement. Higgins is loving and humorously remembered in the insightful documentary directed by his long-time friend and fellow career professional Nicholas Eliopoulos. Higgins’ spirituality influenced his films, and in spite of his untimely death at the young age of 47 in 1988, the documentary ends on positive note, reminding us of how inspirational Colin’s films still remain to the on-going generations of film lovers.
Already the recipient of multiple awards, including “Best Documentary” at the 2024 Hollywood Reel Independent Film Festival and “Best of Festival in Documentary” at the LGBTQ Unbordered International Film Festival, the documentary is currently being considered for Best Feature Documentary at the 97th Academy Awards.
About Nicholas Eliopoulos – Producer/Director/Editor
Nicholas Eliopoulos is a renowned filmmaker, producer, and Emmy-winning editor with over 30 years of experience in Hollywood. Throughout his career, Eliopoulos has worked on a wide array of notable films, including Out of Africa, Nine to Five, and The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, earning Emmy recognition for Wallenberg: A Hero’s Story starring Richard Chamberlain. His editing career has seen collaborations with Hollywood icons such as Angelina Jolie, Jane Fonda, Dolly Parton, and Martin Lawrence.
Eliopoulos is also a respected documentary filmmaker. His film Mary Pickford, The Muse of the Movies was a prior Roy W. Dean Grant winner. It also won “Best Film” at the Universal International Film Festival and was featured at prestigious festivals, including Telluride and Toronto. His other documentaries, Visions of a New World and Russia, A Century of Change, reflect his passion for exploring cultural and historical topics.
Currently, he is developing Salvador Dalí – Inside the Hollywood Years, which delves into the surrealist artist’s collaborations with Hollywood legends. Eliopoulos continues to push creative boundaries and inspire with his passion for storytelling and preserving cinematic history.
About the Roy W. Dean Film Grant
Since 1992, the Roy W. Dean Film Grant has supported unique and socially impactful films. Winners receive not only financial support but also mentorship and resources to bring their vision to life. Past grant recipients have gone on to win critical acclaim and awards, furthering From the Heart Productions’ mission to empower independent filmmakers.
Winners of the grant include Emmy Winners Belly of the Beast and The Love Bugs, the award winning narrative feature Cadejo Blanco which is now in theaters around the world, 2019 Sundance Film Festival selection Raise Hell: The Life and Times of Molly Ivins, the acclaimed documentary Kusama-Infinity.
About From the Heart Productions
From The Heart Productions is a 501(c)3 non-profit dedicated to helping filmmakers get their projects funded and made. They have been chosen a top non-profit for eight years in a row by greatnonprofits.org. Besides providing funding through the grant, they offer a unique film sponsorship which has helped filmmakers raise over $30 million for their projects. The program offers personal consultations and guidance on finding funding their project.
