Nina Conti Clowning Around

In Nina Conti Clowning Around, released in 2015, renowned comedian and ventriloquist Nina Conti embarks on a heartfelt journey as she trains to become a giggle doctor with Theodora Children's Charity. The film captures Nina's quest to find her unique clown persona, which hilariously teeters between Scottish eccentricity and something altogether more surreal. Armed with a red nose, a handful of quirky balloon animals, and a few underwhelming magic tricks, Nina faces the daunting challenge of bringing joy to children in hospitals, often confronting her own insecurities and the stigma surrounding clowns.

Through candid storytelling and her signature humor, Conti not only reveals the trials of her dual identity as a performer and a healer but also delves into profound themes of vulnerability and connection. The documentary showcases her encounters with children battling illness, where laughter becomes a powerful tool for healing amidst the backdrop of hospital walls. As she grapples with clown phobia and her own professional snobbery, viewers are treated to an intimate look at the transformative power of laughter and the emotional rollercoaster that comes with it. Nina Conti Clowning Around is a touching and often hilarious exploration of what it means to bring light to dark times, making it a compelling watch for anyone interested in the intersection of comedy and compassion.