“Mockbuster” Doc: Inside the “Sharknado” Studio’s Chaos

A new Australian documentary titled “Mockbuster” has captured the attention of Giant Pictures, securing worldwide distribution for a film that delves deep into the fascinating and often bewildering world of The Asylum, the studio synonymous with “Sharknado” and a prolific output of B-movies. This documentary promises an unfiltered look at the “gloriously chaotic” filmmaking process that defines the studio’s unique orbit, as seen through the eyes of a director who found himself immersed in it.

Unveiling the World of ‘Mockbuster’

“Mockbuster” is set to explore the eccentric and fast-and-loose filmmaking ethos of The Asylum, a studio renowned for its “mockbusters” — low-budget films designed to capitalize on the hype of major Hollywood blockbusters. The documentary, which marks Anthony Frith’s double feature directorial debut, chronicles his journey as he attempts to direct one of The Asylum’s productions while simultaneously filming the behind-the-scenes documentary itself.

The Director’s Immersion into Asylum’s Orbit

Anthony Frith, an Australian director whose earlier film career had stalled, pitched himself to The Asylum with the goal of directing a lost-world dinosaur epic. Against expectations, the studio, famous for its exploitation films, greenlit his proposal for “The Land That Time Forgot.” What unfolded was a whirlwind production in suburban Adelaide, shot in a mere six days on a budget described as “aspirational.”

Frith’s intention with “Mockbuster” was to capture “the beautiful mess of full-blown B-movie filmmaking.” The documentary portrays the escalating pressure Frith faced, navigating demands from Los Angeles executives, working with a bewildered cast, and confronting his own self-doubt.

The Gloriously Chaotic Production Process

The narrative of “Mockbuster” details Frith’s efforts to keep a prehistoric adventure afloat amidst a backdrop of rubber dinosaurs, last-minute script revisions, and palpable panic. Throughout the shoot, he navigated the chaotic environment fostered by Asylum producer Brendan Petrizzo and studio founders David Rimawi, David Latt, and Paul Bales.

Frith observed that while The Asylum might appear to operate with a “fast and loose” approach, there is a “controlled chaos” at its core. This method, he noted, against all odds, consistently produces films that audiences continue to seek out. The documentary is more than just a chronicle of production; it evolves into an “unexpectedly tender portrait” of pursuing a dream within the absurd hustle of genre filmmaking.

Distribution and Industry Reception

Giant Pictures has acquired “Mockbuster” for worldwide distribution, with Umbrella handling distribution in Australia and New Zealand. The film is slated for its world premiere at the Adelaide Film Festival on October 24th, followed by a North American festival run and a U.S. theatrical release in late spring 2026.

Nick Savva, General Manager of Giant Pictures, who also serves as an executive producer, described “Mockbuster” as “a love letter to ambition, chaos, and the people who somehow make movies happen anyway.” He also highlighted The Asylum’s legendary business model and expressed enthusiasm for sharing a behind-the-scenes look at their success. David Farrier, known for “Tickled,” is an executive producer on the project, alongside Madeleine Schumacher, Alex West, Ty Morse, Phil Laboon, Ari Harrison, and Cam Rogers.

The documentary was co-written by Frith and Sandy Cameron, and produced by David Elliot-Jones, Cameron, and Naomi Ball. Support for the film came from Screen Australia, the South Australian Film Corporation, and the Adelaide Film Festival Investment Fund, in association with VicScreen. Richard Huddleston, Head of Documentary at Screen Australia, praised “Mockbuster” as a unique, offbeat, chaotic, and ultimately heartfelt documentary that offers an original, all-access view into the film industry.

Conclusion

“Mockbuster” stands to offer a compelling and authentic glimpse into a distinctive corner of the film industry, showcasing the tenacity and creativity involved in producing genre films under extreme constraints. It provides an insightful analysis into how a studio like The Asylum has carved out a successful niche, proving that even in the most unconventional of filmmaking environments, a unique form of genius and dedication can thrive.