Sergio Dondoli’s Happy Life is a joyful and heartwarming documentary that captures the passion and spirit of one of the world’s most celebrated gelato artisans. Set in the stunning Tuscan countryside, the award-winning film offers a rich, sensory journey through the life of Sergio Dondoli, whose infectious enthusiasm for his craft—and for life—has captivated visitors from around the globe. The film will be released worldwide across digital platforms on August 19, 2025.
“Sergio's journey from a modest upbringing to gelato master is incredibly inspiring,” says the film’s director, Jay Arnold. “But it was his high regard for the environment, the cows that provide milk, and his commitment to the use of organic, whole foods, that moved me so deeply. In a sense, the film is very much a story of love.”
Dondoli began his culinary journey studying hospitality in Montecatini Terme, Italy. After traveling throughout Europe and honing his skills, he opened the now-iconic Gelateria Dondoli in San Gimignano’s Piazza della Cisterna in 1992. Known for his innovative, trademarked flavors made from high-quality local ingredients such as Crema di Santa Fina (saffron and pine nuts), Champelmo (pink grapefruit and sparkling wine), and Dolceamaro (cream with aromatic herbs), Dondoli has earned numerous accolades, including two Ice Cream World Championships and two Ice Cream World Cup titles as part of Team Italy. Additional favorite flavors he is known for are Rosemary's Baby (rosemary and raspberry), Venere Nera (blackberry and lavender), and various chocolate and fruit-based creations.
Sergio Dondoli’s Happy Life features appearances by Italian culinary legends including world-renowned butcher Dario Cecchini of Panzano and Chef Gaetano Trovato of Arnolfo, Tuscany’s longest-running two-Michelin-starred restaurant. “The film is a vibrant celebration of joy, food, and purpose,” says Rich Wolff, CEO of Breaking Glass Pictures. “You can’t watch Happy Life without smiling.”
The film has won several major festival awards, including Best Feature Documentary at the 2025 East Village New York Film Festival and Best Documentary at the 2025 Red Movie Awards (Winter Edition). It was also named Best Indie Feature at the 2024 Los Angeles Film Awards and received honors for Best Food Film and Best Biographical Feature Film at the 2024 World Film Festival in Cannes.
Jay Arnold’s previous work includes the romantic comedy What Happens Next and the award-winning drama Shoulder Dance. With Happy Life, Arnold makes his documentary feature debut. He co-wrote the film with Matt Dallas and Jillian Hurley, and produced it alongside Dallas, Hurley, Frank Lomento, and Gabriel Munitz-Alessio, who also served as cinematographer. Sergio Dondoli is the film’s executive producer.
Founded in 2009, Breaking Glass Pictures is an award-winning independent film distribution company dedicated to spotlighting bold, emotionally rich, and culturally resonant stories. With a growing focus on artist-driven documentaries, international voices, and films that celebrate creativity, food, and human connection, BGP distributes content across major platforms and physical media worldwide. Based in Philadelphia, the company is known for championing passionate filmmakers and projects that leave a lasting impact on audiences around the globe.
