Clownvets(2019)

From War Heroes to Peace Warriors

Clownvets is a documentary that follows war veterans struggling with PTSD as they travel to Guatemala to train in humanitarian clowning alongside Patch Adams, the physician and activist known for bringing humor and compassion to medicine. The film captures their journey of healing through laughter and human connection, as these veterans learn to use clowning as a therapeutic tool to process trauma and reconnect with joy. Set against the backdrop of Guatemala, the documentary explores how unconventional approaches to wellness—combining performance, empathy, and play—can help those affected by combat find new pathways to recovery. Through intimate moments and genuine interactions, Clownvets reveals the transformative power of compassion and friendship in addressing the invisible wounds of war.