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Elon Musk documentary released
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The gist
Alex Gibney's 235-minute documentary 'Musk' premiered at Venice Film Festival. It asks if Elon Musk is a fascist or great inventor.
Background
The documentary 'Musk' is directed by Oscar-winning filmmaker Alex Gibney, known for profiling powerful figures and organizations. It explores the life and influence of Elon Musk, the world's richest man, and does not include Musk's participation. The film premiered at the Venice Film Festival on September 8, 2026, and is set for theatrical release on October 16 by Bleecker Street.
How it unfolded
- Sep 2, 2026Gibney tells the Hollywood Reporter that Musk is 'no longer interested in checking his worst impulses' and could help Trump subvert midterms.
- Sep 7, 2026Teaser trailer released online, featuring David Byrne's original song 'Let Me Sell You a Dream'.
- Sep 8, 2026World premiere at the Venice Film Festival.
- Oct 16, 2026Theatrical release planned by Bleecker Street.
Who’s saying what
- Director
- Gibney says he started as an admirer but now portrays Musk as chaotic and dangerous, quoting an associate who called him 'the most miserable man I've ever met.'
- Critics
- The documentary is described as 'incendiary' and 'explosive,' with a teaser that questions whether Musk is a 'fascist' or 'greatest living inventor.'
Still unverified
Claims that Musk could help subvert midterm elections are based on Gibney's assertions and not independently verified.