Sarasota filmmaker Ken Sons returns to the Sarasota Film Festival with SPECIAL O’LAUGHICS, a documentary that follows the story of ten mentally challenged adults as they follow their dream to become stand up comedians.

Comedy club owner Les McCurdy creates a nurturing environment and adapts his teaching style to allow each student to reach higher than they ever expected. The film is a hilarious and touching look at McCurdy's students as they prepare for a sold-out evening of stand-up comedy. With a surprising blend of emotions and humor, these students to stand in the spotlight and shine.

The film has screened at the Special Olympics state conventions in Florida and Montana. The film features individuals with challenges ranging from Down’s Syndrome to Anxiety Disorders. One student was the Special Olympian of the Year with Special Olympics. This documentary will change the way you look at people with special needs.

DIRECTOR:  KEN SONS

PRODUCED BY:  LES MCCURDY & KEN SONS

EDITOR:  CHRIS JOHNSON

DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY:  KEN SONS

ADDITIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY:  JIM FLYNN

ART DIRECTOR:  SHEILA SONS