Saskatchewan documentary acquired by Cinema Machine

October 20, 2026

Media Release, Gov't SK

Key points from this story:

• Documentary explores Dr. William Graham Mainprize
• Acquired by Cinema Machine for distribution
• Featured at Regina International Film Festival
• Set in southeastern Saskatchewan prairie
• Themes of resilience and community impact
• Directed by Jack Hilkewich

REGINA, SASKATCHEWAN - Tuesday, Oct 20th, 2026. "Dr. Mainprize, the Legacy of a Country Doctor," a Saskatchewan-produced documentary exploring the remarkable life and legacy of rural physician Dr. William Graham Mainprize, has been acquired for distribution by Cinema Machine, a division of the independent film representation and consulting company Blood Sweat Honey.

The acquisition follows the film's selection for the Regina International Film Festival, where Mainprize was featured as an official selection in the festival's Global Citizen program. It was through the festival that Cinema Machine first became aware of the documentary, ultimately leading to the distribution agreement.

Set against the sweeping prairie landscape of southeastern Saskatchewan, Mainprize tells the story of a country doctor whose dedication to his patients and community left an enduring legacy.

In an era when medical services were limited and rural communities relied heavily on one another; Dr. Mainprize became far more than a physician. His commitment to the people he served, often accepting little more than produce, livestock or gratitude in payment, earned him a special place in the community.

But his journey was not without hardship. A devastating personal tragedy early in his career challenged his confidence and faith, ultimately forcing him to confront his calling and the responsibilities he had assumed.

Through interviews, historical accounts and imagery of the Saskatchewan prairie, the documentary explores themes of resilience, compassion, faith and the lasting impact one individual can have on an entire community.

"Cinema Machine is proud to work with independent filmmaker Jack Hilkewich on "Dr. Mainprize, the Legacy of a Country Doctor". The true story of Dr. William Graham Mainprize and his dedication to service, the personal tragedy that tested his calling, and the enduring bond between a doctor and the community that depended on him; is exactly the kind of powerful, human story we want to help bring to audiences. We're grateful to Jack and the team behind Dr. Mainprize for entrusting Cinema Machine with the film's distribution." Alex Nohe, President, Blood Sweat Honey

Cinema Machine was launched as a division of Blood Sweat Honey to provide theatrical and digital distribution for independent films, along with project development, bookings and contract management. The company also operates Graven Image, a genre label specializing in horror, science fiction and cult films.

The distribution division is led by Chad McKim Miller, formerly Vice President at Gravitas Ventures. Blood Sweat Honey president Alex Nohe has worked with more than 500 independent filmmakers, helping them connect with audiences and secure distribution opportunities.

For the filmmakers behind Mainprize, 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.

"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." Jack Hilkewich, Co-producer/Director

The acquisition also highlights the important role regional film festivals play in connecting independent filmmakers with the broader film industry. The Regina International Film Festival'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.

"Upon watching Mainprize, RIFFA's programming team had no doubts it had to be included in our 2026 Global Citizen line-up. Jack Hilkewich masterfully told this local story, spreading an important message of perseverance and community that deeply resonated with our audience. The RIFFA team is ecstatic to hear Mainprize has been picked up for distribution, giving this story a chance to be appreciated by many people." Giovana Nabarrete (She/Her) Director, Festival Programming | RIFFA

Details regarding the film's release and availability will be announced at a later date.