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Cop comedian documentary “Vinnie-isms” wins big at top Indie Film Awards

The award-winning film follows Deputy Sheriff-turned-comedian Vinnie Montez, who found healing through humor after years on the job

By Police1 Staff

WINTER GARDEN, Fla. — “Vinnie-isms: The Story of the Cop Comedian,” a documentary film produced and directed by Jason Harney, has been awarded Best Documentary Feature and Best Message at the 2024 Top Indie Film Awards.

The film chronicles the journey of Vinnie Montez, who fulfilled his lifelong dream of becoming a law enforcement officer in 1998, serving as a deputy sheriff with the Boulder County Sheriff’s Office. After a decade on the job, Montez struggled with the effects of cumulative trauma, leading him to discover stand-up comedy as an outlet. His comedy, rooted in his experiences as an officer, his family, and his Mexican heritage, has since propelled him into a successful second career that has spanned over 15 years.

The documentary is currently under consideration for selection at four upcoming spring film festivals, with hopes for a world premiere announcement soon.

For more information about the film, visit Lightning Digital Entertainment.

| NEXT: In this episode of the Policing Matters podcast, sponsored by OfficerStore.com, host Jim Dudley speaks with Vinnie Montez about how his journey to better mental wellness led to a career in comedy.