Kino Lorber Acquires Acclaimed Vietnam War Documentary Soul Patrol
Kino Lorber has secured the rights to Soul Patrol, a documentary that premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in 2026. The film, directed by J.M. Harper, explores the untold story of Vietnam’s first Black special operations team. It has already earned acclaim, including the top documentary prize at the Sarasota Film Festival.
Soul Patrol is based on Ed Emanuel’s bestselling memoir of the same name. The documentary follows the experiences of a groundbreaking unit during the Vietnam War. Its release comes after years of limited recognition for their contributions.
Before its Sundance debut, the film was an official selection at multiple festivals, including True/False, Full Frame, and DC/DOX. Harper, who directed the project, has spoken openly about the excitement surrounding its wider distribution. Lisa Schwartz, Kino Lorber’s Chief Distribution & Revenue Officer, highlighted the film’s importance. She called it an essential piece of storytelling, long overdue in honouring the veterans’ legacy. The distributor plans a theatrical release during awards season, with digital, educational, and home video formats to follow.
The documentary’s festival success and Kino Lorber’s acquisition ensure a broader audience for its powerful narrative. Soul Patrol will now reach viewers through cinemas, streaming, and educational platforms. Its release schedule aligns with the upcoming awards season, setting the stage for further recognition.
