Jack Hilkewich’s documentary on the life of Dr. Mainprize, a Saskatchewan pioneer doctor, has been picked up for distribution after its premiere at RIFFA!
“Dr. Mainprize, the Legacy of a Country Doctor” has been acquired by Cinema Machine, a U.S. based independent film distributor. Cinema Machine is an independent film distribution division of Blood Sweat Honey, providing theatrical and digital distribution, project development and distribution management services. Led by experienced film industry professionals, the company works to bring independent films to audiences through a range of distribution platforms.
A feature documentary, the story is about Dr. William Graham Mainprize, a physician whose life and work became deeply intertwined with the people of southeastern Saskatchewan. Through personal recollections, historical material and prairie imagery, the film examines the challenges, sacrifices and enduring legacy of a rural doctor whose influence extended far beyond medicine.
For the filmmakers behind Mainprize’s story, the agreement represents an opportunity to take a distinctly Saskatchewan story to a much wider audience. Producers Murray Kerr and Jack Hilkewich worked with Melcher Studios for 15 years to achieve this goal.
Director Jack Hilkewich describes his work of passion, “One of the things we hoped to accomplish with this film was to preserve the story of a remarkable man and the community he served. While this is very much a Saskatchewan story, its themes of compassion, sacrifice and community are universal. We’re excited to be working with Cinema Machine to introduce Dr. Mainprize and his legacy to audiences who may never have heard of him.”
The acquisition also highlights the important role regional film festivals play in connecting independent filmmakers with the broader film industry. RIFFA’s inclusion of Dr. Mainprize, the Legacy of a Country Doctor in its Global Citizen program helped provide the exposure that led to the distribution agreement.
Watch trailer.