Watch The Wavy Gravy Movie: Saint Misbehavin

The Wavy Gravy Movie: Saint Misbehavin' is a documentary film that dives into the life and legacy of the beloved cultural icon, Hugh Romney, more famously known as Wavy Gravy. Directed by Michelle Esrick, the film features a series of interviews, archival footage, and personal stories from those who knew him best, showcasing Wavy Gravy's journey from a poet to a clown, and ultimately, to becoming a global humanitarian.

The film opens with a series of vibrant animations in Wavy Gravy's signature style, that sets the whimsical tone for the rest of the documentary. We're introduced to Wavy Gravy through a series of interviews with friends and fellow performers who recount their first encounters with the man himself. We learn that Wavy Gravy grew up in an abusive household and that his childhood experiences deeply impacted his outlook on life, which ultimately led him to his life's mantra of peace and love.

As the documentary moves forward, we see Wavy Gravy's involvement in the counterculture movement of the 1960s, including his involvement in the Merry Pranksters and his emcee duties at Woodstock. The film highlights his close friendship with the Grateful Dead, who gave him his stage name and how Wavy Gravy became an integral part of their concerts.

The film then transitions to Wavy Gravy's humanitarian work, and how he became a co-founder of the Seva Foundation, an organization dedicated to preventing blindness in impoverished communities around the world. The documentary shows footage of his work with Seva Foundation in Nepal, in the aftermath of the devastating earthquake of 2015, as he and his team worked tirelessly to save people's sight.

The Wavy Gravy Movie: Saint Misbehavin' doesn't shy from the criticisms that Wavy Gravy received throughout his life, including accusations of being a "hippie clown" or an irrelevant has-been. The film confronts these criticisms head-on, showing the ways in which Wavy Gravy's optimism and kindness have always been deeply ingrained within him, and have been a catalyst for change across the years.

The documentary also emphasizes the importance of Wavy Gravy's iconic appearance and demeanor in the development of his public image. The signature tie-dye t-shirt, clown nose, and oversized hat became defining elements of his persona, but as the film argues, it's the sincerity behind Wavy Gravy's appearance that has made him such a beloved and important cultural figure.

The Wavy Gravy Movie: Saint Misbehavin' is a tribute to one of the most beloved cultural figures of the 20th century. It’s a film that celebrates Wavy Gravy's inimitable spirit, humor, and legacy. Whether you experienced Woodstock firsthand, or simply known him from afar, this film will take you on a journey that leaves you feeling inspired and uplifted.

The Wavy Gravy Movie: Saint Misbehavin is a 2009 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 27 minutes.