'Everybody Loves Raymond' documentary lands deal

LOS ANGELES  - The sought-after feature documentary "Exporting Raymond," starring "Everybody Loves Raymond" creator Phil Rosenthal, who also makes his big-screen directing debut, is expected to reach theaters next year.

It has been acquired by the Samuel Goldwyn Co, which is eyeing a limited release in the second quarter. The documentary, which follows Rosenthal as he travels to Russia to meet about doing a Russian version of "Raymond," opened the Austin Film Festival earlier this week.

"Part travelogue, part fish-out-of-water story, part behind-the-scenes look at the sausage-making process otherwise known as TV production, 'Exporting Raymond' examines all these themes with notes of frustration and humor," wrote the Austin Chronicle.