Documentary about 1996 Doctor Who film to hit screens in October

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Kaleidoscope Film Distribution has won the rights to to release award-winning Doctor Who documentary, Doctor Who Am I theatrically in the UK in October and will also manage international sales, according to Variety.

“We at Kaleidoscope are delighted to be working with Matthew and Vanessa on this fabulous film,” said Kaleidoscope CEO Spencer Pollard via Variety. “It’s a real fan piece. Festivals and distributors around the world hopefully will enjoy it as much as we did.”

The documentary, directed by Vanessa Yuille and written and produced by Matthew Jacobs, tells the story of the 1996 made-for-television Doctor Who film designed to be a pilot for a new television series. The film featured Paul McGann as the Doctor and was co-produced by Universal Studios and BBC Worldwide during a gap in the UK series.

Shot in the United States, the documentary shows how the film was received with disfavour by some fans who were unhappy with the idea that the Doctor was half human and kissed his companion Grace Holloway.

It also features members of the original cast including Paul McGann, Daphne Ashbrook and Eric Roberts.

“In exploring this pivotal moment in the franchise’s history, Matthew unexpectedly finds himself a kindred part of this close-knit, yet vast, family of fans. This is a funny and emotionally perilous documentary, packed full of Doctor Who whimsy and celebrating a passionate, united fanbase.

Yuille told Variety: “We’re a small movie with a big heart, and Kaleidoscope saw that right away. Teaming up with Kaleidoscope is a perfect match for us because even though we’re an American movie, they understand the Doctor Who franchise and the global reach of the fandom. They can bring our documentary from the ‘Whoniverse’ to the universe.”

Jacobs added: “Now, more than ever, we need a positive movie about Doctor Who fandom as we move towards the show’s 60th anniversary. We’re so excited Kaleidoscope, like audiences have, recognize that our documentary is essential viewing for all lovers of storytelling.”

Materials regarding the documentary will be available to view at Toronto International Film Festival in September.