Main Event

Joybubbles

Name of Venue

Premier Theater at One Letterman

Address

San Francisco, CA

Dates and Times

Saturday, April 25, 2026, at 3:30 PM PT

Collaborators

• Director: Rachael J. Morrison
• Executive Producers: Cameo Wood, Rhianon Jones, Tristan Scott-Behrends, Roman Nesis, Adora Cheung, Kyra Rogers, Todd Remis, George Rush
• Producers: Sarah Winshall, Will Butler, Annie Marr
• Editor: Bradford Thomason, Patrick Lawrence
• Cinematographer: Michael Belcher, Ashley Connor, Helki Frantzen, Hiroshi Hara
• Music: Will Epstein
• Cast: Joybubbles, Phil Lapsley, Steve Wozniak

Director Rachael J. Morrison and Producers Sarah Winshall, Will Butler, and Annie Marr, along with interviewee Phil Lapsley, are expected to attend for a post-screening Q&A.

Activity Description

This documentary, "Joybubbles," tells the story of Josef Carl Engressia, also known as Joybubbles, who was born blind and had perfect pitch. In the era of analog telephones, he discovered he could whistle precise tones to hack the phone network, allowing him to make free long-distance calls. This talent made him one of the earliest "phone phreaks," bringing him both notoriety and an arrest. Later in life, Joybubbles created recorded stories accessible by phone, forming friendships and connecting with people. The film uses archival footage, audio interviews, and poppy graphics to portray his whimsical and ingenious life.

Accessibility

• Presented with open audio description.
• Presented with open captions.
• Closed captions are available for this film.

Language

English

Editorial Recommendations

"An extraordinary man deserves an extraordinary documentary, and director Rachael J. Morrison delivers exactly that with this lively portrait of Josef Carl Engressia, also known as Joybubbles... The film uses archival footage, audio interviews, and poppy graphics to capture the whimsy and ingenuity of Joybubbles’ life. He was a man who lived to bring happiness to the world. He is still doing it through this irresistible film." —Pam Grady