Vertical has secured North American rights to the feature documentary The DOC

Vertical has secured NA rights to the feature documentary The DOC, directed by Dave Caplan. 30 years after losing his voice in a horrific car accident, rap legend The DOC considers dangerous experimental surgery that could restore his voice, as he recounts his life story. Vertical will release the film in US cinemas in Spring 2023, following its world premiere at Tribeca Film Festival 2022.

The film stars Curry and features interviews with industry legends including Dr. Dre, Eminem, Snoop Dogg, Erykah Badu, Ice Cube, Xzibit, Too $hort, Kurupt, Daz Dillinger, Tone Loc, Big Boy, Sir Jinx, DJ Yella, Jewell, Dr. Rock, and many more.

The DOC chronicles the life of the lyricist and producer who wrote for NWA and Dr. Dre, co-founded Death Row Records, mentored Snoop Dogg, and left his mark on Hip Hop culture forever. 30 years after a devastating car crash that took his voice, The DOC is still struggling with his legacy as a rapper with the greatest cadence before West Coast rap exploded in popularity and he considers experimental surgery that might be able to restore his vocals. The DOC explores this risky decision alongside a cast of celebrities who reflect on his impact in their lives and in the world from music, to love, to civil rights crusading.

The film is produced by The DOC, Gary Ousdahl and Dave Caplan and executive produced by Brent Mack and Erykah Badu. The film’s cinematographer is Thomas McCallum, the editor is Kevin Barth with music by Kyle Townshend and music supervision by Joel C. High.

“One of the greatest untold stories in hip-hop provides the backdrop for a man searching for his true purpose in life,” Producer Brent Mack stated. “What DOC. went through, losing his voice and his identity, at the height of his fame, is unimaginable to me. How he dealt with that, and the people and music he influenced along the way, is an emotional rollercoaster of a ride that is both heart wrenching and inspirational.”

Vertical Partner Peter Jarowey stated, “The DOC is an incredible talent and visionary who helped usher the Hip-Hop movement into mainstream America. As his remarkable life is revealed on screen, it is like watching the history of Hip-Hop unfold before your very eyes as witnessed by industry legends who count him as a friend, collaborator and mentor. Everyone needs to see this inspirational journey and we are proud to be able to present it this Spring.”

Jarowey and SVP of Acquistions Tony Piantedosi negotiated the deal on behalf of Vertical with CAA Media Finance, which negotiated on behalf of the production.