This holiday season, immerse yourself in the magic of storytelling with our free Christmas Movie Hero’s Journey online celebration! Led by award-winning filmmaker Robert Cochrane, PhD, this fun and interactive one-hour online presentation delves into 12 of the most beloved Christmas movies, revealing how they follow the timeless 12 stages of Joseph Campbell’s Hero’s Journey (as adapted by Chris Vogler).

Each Friday, join us via Zoom for a festive hour filled with movie clips, meaningful discussions, and surprises! Participants have shared incredible stories and connections, from magical childhood memories to heartfelt moments from their favorite holiday films. One participant recalled a mysterious Christmas Eve surprise of matching pajamas that remains an unsolved but cherished mystery. Another shared their joy of receiving a long-hoped-for umbrella, only to be playfully teased it was something else. Everyone is welcome!

The get together isn’t just about learning—it’s about community. As one attendee beautifully put it, “We are family. Thank you everyone for making time for this special gathering.”

Plus, the fun doesn’t stop with the movies! Each week, we give away gourmet chocolates, and one lucky participant will win a grand prize: $2,000 tuition for a 2025 Cinema Therapy class.

If you love Christmas movies, enjoy uncovering the deeper layers of storytelling, or simply want a joyful way to connect with others this holiday season, this is for you! Don’t miss out on this festive journey of transformation and connection!

Reserve your spot today and bring your favorite holiday beverage!

Originally Published on https://www.yesandexercise.org/

Robert Cochrane, PhD Yes, And...eXercise!

Dr. Robert Cochrane is a graduate of UNLV's Integrated Health Sciences department. He's researching the effect of improvisation and storytelling on Parkinson’s disease. He received grants from the Parkinson's Foundation and support from the Davis Phinney Foundation along the way. He is a popular, unique and high energy Keynote speaker, bringing joy, optimism and practical tools for people in the PD community to thrive today.

He has a background in filmmaking, with the Artisan Entertainment release, The Playaz Court, and two Stephen King-based short films among his credits. His father, Dan, was diagnosed with PD in 2001, which shifted Robert’s artistic lens to health. He made his first documentary, the award-winning Boys of Summer in 2004. There are two follow up films in the series with the fourth film coming in 2023.

He moved his family back to Walnut Creek, CA, where he grew up. He lives there with his beautiful wife, two teenagers who are, indeed, "all that" and is a proud care partner for his amazing parents.