Haven Entertainment Announces Untitled Lakers Documentary

Shooting and archival retrieval is underway in Los Angeles for the Untitled Lakers’ Documentary, a film that will chronicle the amazing life of Dr. Jerry Buss, his relationship with Earvin “Magic” Johnson, and the transformation of the Los Angeles Lakers in the 1980’s.  Produced by Haven Entertainment’s Kevin Mann and Brendan Bragg (Hello My Name is Doris, Under The Electric Sky, Night Owls), co-owner of the team, Jeanie Buss, and Lakers’ Manager of Special Events, Linda Rambis, the documentary is directed by Kris Belman (More than a Game).

“We at Haven strive to work with top-notch talent to tell once in a lifetime stories,” said Kevin Mann, Partner at Haven Entertainment. “The Lakers organization has always been one of excellence and this generation is the epitome of that.”

Reuniting the production team behind LeBron James: More than a Game, the film will explore the brilliant business mind behind the Los Angeles icon and the Lakers as one of the greatest dynasties in all of sports. Set amidst the colorful backdrop of LA in the 1980s, the film will also portray the era’s impact on Los Angeles up until Magic Johnson’s retirement following the announcement of his HIV diagnosis.

“We’re telling a story that is as layered as Dr. Jerry Buss himself. Business magnate, philanthropist, scientist, all wrapped up into one of the truest American rags-to-riches tales. The challenge is humanizing the enigmatic owner of one of the world’s greatest franchises and quite arguably the greatest dynasty in all of sports…because at his core, Dr. Buss was a friend and a father,” mentions Belman.

The documentary will cover the Showtime era through archival footage as well as exclusive personal accounts from Dr. Buss and the Lakers’ closest family, friends and business partners. This is the first time access has been granted to the family archives which delve into the exceptional relationship between Dr. Buss and Magic Johnson. Exploring the brilliant business mind behind the Forum and Prime Ticket cable network which gave rise to this storied franchise, the film will also explore the playboy, showman and philanthropist who is regarded as a Los Angeles icon.

“The partnership with Haven Entertainment will give us the unique opportunity to tell the Lakers’ story from a point of view that has never fully been told, that of Jerry Buss and the people he surrounded himself with to make it all happen. The amount of detail and research that has been invested in to telling the complete story is unprecedented and appreciated,” stated Jeanie Buss.

The Untitled Lakers’ Documentary is executive produced by Tobin Armbrust (Rush and Begin Again), Andy Trapani (A Haunting in Connecticut), and Brett Tomberlin. Additional EP’s include Lou Christopher, Jessie Creel, Nicholas Gregory, Anderson Hirsch, Alex Matros, and Rick Matros.

ABOUT HAVEN ENTERTAINMENT

Haven Entertainment is a dynamic entertainment company that has gained recognition by producing award-winning documentary and narrative feature films; representing top writers, directors, actors, and improvisers; and working with brands to develop cutting-edge digital content. Haven partners are Mauricio Betancur, Kevin Mann, Rachel Miller, Jesse Hara, Brendan Bragg, and Jordana Mollick.

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