Elon Musk documentary faces legal threats and distribution uncertainty

Alex Gibney’s documentary on Elon Musk is facing distribution uncertainty and legal threats. While Universal Pictures initially faced reports that it might reconsider releasing the film outside North America, the studio has since stated it remains committed to an international release, though no overseas dates have been set.

The film, which premiered at the Venice Film Festival, has drawn legal scrutiny from Elon Musk. Musk’s attorney, Alex Spiro, has threatened the production team, Jigsaw Productions, with defamation lawsuits. Specifically, the legal challenge contests the film’s portrayal of a potential link between Starlink and influence over the 2024 U.S. presidential election.

Director Alex Gibney maintains that the documentary is based on solid evidence and underwent independent verification. He noted that his team attempted to contact Musk throughout the production process but received no direct response, only public messages on X. The documentary is scheduled for release in U.S. cinemas via Bleecker Street starting October 9, and will also screen at the London Film Festival.