Full Breakdown
Starboard Entertainment Acquires Rights to "This Is Buzz" Documentary
2/27/2026, 12:49:35 PM
Overview of the Acquisition
Starboard Entertainment has secured the North American rights to the documentary feature "This Is Buzz," directed by Mark Pellington. The film debuted at the 2026 Slamdance Film Festival and is set for a theatrical release in June, followed by a digital launch. "This Is Buzz" explores the significant impact and enduring relevance of the cult MTV series "Buzz," which aired in the 1990s.
Background on "Buzz"
"Buzz" was a non-linear current affairs show that gained a cult following despite its brief run on MTV. The series featured notable figures such as William S. Burroughs, Jenny Holzer, Jaron Lanier, Malcolm McLaren, Timothy Leary, and William Gibson, with RuPaul hosting in his first recurring television role. The documentary aims to highlight the show's influence on contemporary culture, particularly among younger audiences who have rediscovered its episodes online.
Key Contributors to the Documentary
"This Is Buzz" is produced by Pellington’s Prolific Films in collaboration with Kiln Pictures, Backstroke, Imaginary Film Content, and Orange Crush. The film's production team includes Pellington, Liza Hughes, and Eb George, with executive producers such as Ted Hope, Thomas Zambeck, and Judy McGrath. The original "Buzz" series was created by Jon Klein and Mark Pellington in 1990.
Official Statements & Responses
Mark Pellington described "This Is Buzz" as a film that embodies "youthful spirit, art, and experimentation," characterizing it as a "punk rock film about independence." He emphasized the documentary's exploration of a future that was "ominously predicted and then destroyed and forgotten."
Criticism & Opposition
While the documentary has garnered attention for its nostalgic value, some critics may question the relevance of revisiting a show that had a limited impact during its original airing. Concerns may also arise regarding the portrayal of the figures involved and whether the documentary adequately addresses the complexities of the era it represents.
What's Next for "This Is Buzz"
Following its theatrical release in June, "This Is Buzz" will be made available for digital viewing, allowing a broader audience to engage with the documentary and its examination of the cultural significance of the original "Buzz" series.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This Is Buzz is about youthful spirit, art, and experimentation, a punk rock film about independence, a story of a future ominously predicted and then destroyed and forgotten. Until now,” — Mark Pellington, Director
