The Fandom is a 2020 documentary film directed by Ash Kreis, exploring the world of fan cultures and fandoms. The film follows several dedicated fans of popular franchises, such as Harry Potter, Star Wars, and Doctor Who, as they attend conventions, create fan art, and participate in online communities. One of the main focus of the documentary is Sam Conway, a well-known YouTube personality and cosplayer within the Harry Potter fandom. The film highlights how Sam's love for the series has influenced his life and career trajectory, ultimately inspiring him to create his own Harry Potter-themed short film, titled The Gathering Storm.
Sasha R. Jones, a Star Wars fan and member of the R2 Builders Club, is also featured in the documentary. The film showcases how Sasha and her fellow club members built their own functioning droids, as well as the community of makers and enthusiasts that have emerged from this hobby.
Michele Light, a Doctor Who fan and writer, is interviewed as well. The film discusses her experience as a woman within the typically male-dominated fandom, as well as the impact that Doctor Who has had on her personal and professional life.
Throughout the film, various academics and experts on fan culture also provide commentary on the significance and influence of fandoms in contemporary society. The documentary explores how fandoms provide a sense of community and belonging for individuals, as well as how they can be a source of controversy and even harassment.
Overall, The Fandom is an engaging and informative exploration of the world of fan cultures. It showcases the creativity and passion of fans, as well as their unique perspectives and experiences within their respective fandoms. The film ultimately emphasizes the importance of creating and maintaining inclusive and welcoming communities within fandoms.
The Fandom is a 2021 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 29 minutes.
It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.2.
