In a case of reality being stranger than fiction, the documentary Kung Fu Elliot is the true story about a Canadian named Elliot “White Lightning” Scott and his quest to become the nation’s first action movie star.

The boundaries of friendship with his loved ones and supporters are tested as Scott becomes more engrossed in his role, struggling to finish his latest martial arts epic titled Blood Fight.

Directed by Jaret Belliveau and Matthew Bauckman and produced by David Eberts, (son of Jake Eberts of Dances with Wolves and Driving Miss Daisy fame), the film premiered at the American Slamdance Film Festival earlier in the year. It makes its theatrical debut across Canada starting in Toronto this week, with more dates and locations to follow.

Eastern screening times:

Toronto: Magic Lantern Carlton Cinemas, Nov 7. to13
Ottawa: The Mayfair, Nov. 14 to 20
Sudbury: Best of Hot Docs, Nov. 8 (one night only)
North Bay: Best of Hot Docs, Nov. 15 (one night only)
Winnipeg: Cinematheque, Nov. 21

Watch the trailer: