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Happiness is a 2009 documentary film that explores the concept of happiness through the perspectives of different individuals, including The Dalai Lama, Matthew Dowd, and Daniel Gilbert. Directed by Andrew Shapter, the film takes a philosophical and psychological approach towards understanding happiness, rather than focusing on its materialistic aspects.

The film follows the journey of five individuals who are seeking happiness in their lives. Some are troubled by personal challenges such as illness, fear, and sorrow, while others have a sense of stagnation and unfulfillment in their lives. The film reveals how happiness is a subjective experience that varies from person to person, and how it cannot be achieved through external factors alone.

Throughout the film, The Dalai Lama, a Tibetan spiritual leader, shares his insights on happiness, emphasizing the importance of compassion, gratitude, and mindfulness. He suggests that happiness is not a goal, but rather a state of being that is cultivated through the practice of these virtues.

Matthew Dowd, a political strategist, talks about how his pursuit of external success left him feeling empty and unhappy. Through his experiences, he realizes that true happiness comes from a sense of acceptance, purpose, and contribution to society.

Daniel Gilbert, a psychologist, offers a scientific perspective on happiness, discussing how our brain processes information and how this can affect our mood. He highlights the concept of 'synthetic happiness', which refers to the ability of humans to create happiness in situations that are not inherently pleasurable.

The film also includes interviews with other experts such as Shawn Achor, a positive psychology researcher, and Dr. Brene Brown, a social worker and author. They share their insights on happiness and offer practical tips on how individuals can cultivate happiness in their lives.

Beyond the individual experiences, the film also explores societal factors that contribute to happiness, such as economic stability, social connections, and a sense of belonging. It highlights the importance of creating a culture that values well-being and prioritizes the collective happiness of its citizens.

Overall, Happiness is a thought-provoking documentary that offers a fresh perspective on the elusive concept of happiness. It presents a holistic view of happiness that encompasses both the individual and societal aspects, and encourages viewers to reflect on their own experiences and beliefs. The film is particularly relevant at a time when many individuals are grappling with mental health challenges and seeking greater fulfillment in their lives.

Happiness Is is a 2009 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 22 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.9.