Chalkboard TV confirmed that its first feature-length sports documentary, Once Were Lions, will premiere on BBC iPlayer.
Produced by Chalkboard TV and Ad Hoc Films, the rugby league documentary follows the GB Lions as they tour New Zealand and Papua New Guinea. The film addresses Rugby League’s history as well as issues of masculinity, race, and class. Sports media rights agency RDA will handle international rights.
Dan McGolpin, controller of BBC iPlayer, commented, “This gripping documentary film gives iPlayer viewers privileged access to the GB Lions squad on tour together with fascinating insights into Rugby League, its roots and its future. Whether you are new to the sport or already a fan, it’s an enjoyable and rewarding watch ahead of next year’s World Cup.”
Mike Benson, executive producer at Chalkboard, added, “Once Were Lions is about much more than a rugby league tour… it is about forgotten towns and teams, and a proud sport that’s in search of a future. Rugby League has always been tied to class, industry, stereotypes and politics – something it still struggles to escape and our film seeks to explore these themes.”
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