Boutique Toronto distributor Grindstone Media is hoping to have a hit on its hands with Rush: The Documentary. The $1.5-million feature doc about the famed rock band is produced and directed by Scot McFadyen and Sam Dunn (Metal: A Headbanger’s Journey) and executive produced by Grindstone president Paul Zimic.

McFadyen says it’s ironic that, despite the band’s influence on groups as diverse as The Red Hot Chili Peppers and Metallica, that this will be the first in-depth look at its history and influence.

‘Most Canadians are aware of Rush, but I don’t think that the degree of their success or influence on the international music scene is recognized or respected. We’re talking about a group that is ranked fifth in the world for most consecutive gold and platinum albums, behind groups like The Beatles and the Stones,’ he says.

The doc will include interviews with rock greats

and before-seen-before footage shot by lead singer Geddy Lee himself, which Grindstone (Pauly Shore is Dead, Tideland) hopes will attract Canadian broadcasters.

‘Scot and Sam are a proven team. They just added a Gemini Award [writing in a doc program or series] to their many wins for Metal, and judging by the strong international audience response to their debut film, I think Rush will find eager audiences,’ says Zimic.