Elon Musk Calls This Documentary a 'Hit Piece.' Here’s Why It’s So Critical of Him
TIME sits down with filmmaker Alex Gibney to discuss his critical new Elon Musk documentary—and the fight to get it seen.
Elon Musk has called documentary filmmaker Alex Gibney many names on social media, accusing him of being a "crackpot," "douchebag to his core," "an idiot," and someone for whom "dogsh*t is worth more respect." The four-hour film, "Musk," directed by Gibney, is set to premiere in U.S. theaters on October 9. The documentary has generated significant controversy due to Musk's and other tech companies' strong reactions to it.
Musk is actively criticizing the movie online, and his lawyer has even threatened a defamation lawsuit.
Gibney has previously made documentaries about tech leaders like Elizabeth Holmes and Steve Jobs. In this film, he has a critical perspective on Musk, highlighting the tech mogul's risky behavior and his tendency to surround himself with yes-men. The film also scrutinizes Musk's relationships with government entities, suggesting that they have often been beneficial to him, rather than independent entrepreneurs getting by without assistance.
Gibney expresses concern about Musk's immense power and influence, particularly in light of his recent role in Project Meridian, a Pentagon initiative focused on shaping the future of warfare.
Written by urgent.news from Time's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
