Joybubbles

Long before the internet, in 1950s America, a young boy miraculously discovers that he can control the global telephone system by whistling a magic tone.

Born blind, Joybubbles develops an obsession with telephones and building connections from a young age. This unexpectedly leads to the creation of a subculture that influences the future development of hacking and technology. Told through archival footage and voice recordings, the film highlights the power of community while challenging assumptions about disability and identity.

“By subverting expectations, “Joybubbles” becomes a delightful watch, a biography of a man whose talents on a telephone were just one of many that made him special.” — Brain Farvour, The Playlist

Content Guidance: Contains discussion of sexual and physical abuse, ableist language and discrimination.