Occupational Hazard: The First Coral Reefers

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1h 32m

Documentary

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99%

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50+ Ratings

OCCUPATIONAL HAZARD: THE FIRST CORAL REEFERS is a feature documentary that journeys back to the 1970s and early 1980s to tell the story of Jimmy Buffett's original Coral Reefer Band. Set against the creative backdrop of Key West, the film explores the musicians, friendships, touring years, and studio sessions that helped shape Buffett's legendary sound. Through rare, never-before-seen archival footage and deeply personal interviews with founding members, tour managers, producers and music legends, OCCUPATIONAL HAZARD captures the camaraderie, chaos, and magic of an era that thrived on freedom and lived without a rulebook. Narrated by Academy-award winner Jeff Bridges, OCCUPATIONAL HAZARD offers fans a deeper look at the people behind the music and the era that helped define Jimmy Buffett's lasting legacy. This film is a tribute to Buffett and the original Coral Reefers, the places and people that shaped them, the volatile beauty of a musical moment that couldn't last but changed everything and their candid sentiment toward Buffett. It's the origin story upon which the Parrot Head empire was built upon, by the people who helped lay the foundation.

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tony R

@RT03354109 4 hrs ago

An amazing movie we had the opportunity to see. Makes you feel like you had a front row seat to an incredible journey, watching one of the great entertainers of our generation. So many different emotions we can laugh and cry. Definitely worth going to see I can’t wait to watch it again and again. I really feel like it’s one of those movies that each time you watch it you’ll pull something different out of it.

Vinnie S

@RT39968207 4 hrs ago

Great film! You don't need to be a Buffett fan to enjoy this well told story about music, partying in the 70's and the Key West lifestyle.

Bobbie S

@Sunshynb 12 hrs ago

What a fascinating and fun journey with JB and the first coral reefers. So many stories that made me go back and listen to the music again with a whole new appreciation. This film is a must see!

Tim A

@RT32846946 12 hrs ago

An incredible behind the scenes story of one of the most prolific artists of our time. So well done!

Carrie P

@RT85822753 20 hrs ago

What an amazing story! I learned so much and enjoyed every second of the film. Highly recommend!

R T

@RT65482791 20 hrs ago

I’ll admit, I was curious whether Occupational Hazard could live up to the life and legend of Jimmy Buffett and the original Coral Reefer Band. After seeing the film, all my doubts disappeared. It’s fantastic! I’ve seen it twice already and can’t wait to stream it at home. It’s a fun, wild ride packed with the spirit of 70’s rock n roll. A must-see for any music lover.

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John H Cunningham

Director

Jeff Bridges

Narrator

John H Cunningham

Writer

John H Cunningham

Producer

Ted E. Haynes

Producer

Troy Jackson

Cinematographer

Occupational Hazard: The First Coral Reefers: Trailer 1

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Synopsis

Director: John H Cunningham
Producer: John H Cunningham, Ted E. Haynes
Screenwriter: John H Cunningham
Distributor: Evan Saxon Productions
Production Co: Confluence Productions, Greene Street Entertainment
Genre: Documentary, Music
Original Language: English
Release Date (Theaters): Sep 4, 2026, Limited
Runtime: 1h 32m

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Occupational Hazard: The First Coral Reefers

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