Universal Pictures acquired worldwide distribution rights to a documentary about Elon Musk directed by Alex Gibney three years ago, but the studio now appears to be reconsidering its commitment to release the film. The project screened at the Venice Film Festival earlier this month to enthusiastic reception, with attendees applauding for five minutes. However, according to sources familiar with the situation, Universal has not scheduled a release date, has not communicated with filmmakers about distribution plans, and is reportedly weighing a decision to return rights to the production team rather than proceed with theatrical release.
The shift in stance reflects changing political circumstances since the original acquisition in 2023. The documentary contains allegations regarding Musk’s potential use of data during his involvement with the Department of Government Efficiency against Democratic candidates in upcoming elections. Industry observers have noted that regulatory relationships may be influencing the studio’s hesitation, particularly regarding the Federal Communications Commission and its current leadership. Comcast, Universal’s parent company, operates under regulatory scrutiny from agencies whose leadership maintains close relationships with Musk.
If Universal opts to shelve the film, it would trigger a contractual kill fee payable to filmmakers, allowing them to retain rights and potentially license the project to other distributors. The documentary is set for U.S. theatrical release through independent distributor Bleecker Street and is scheduled to screen at the London Film Festival next month. HBO secured North American television and streaming rights in 2023 and continues to finance additional production work. A potential acquisition of Warner Bros Discovery by David Ellison could further complicate HBO’s distribution timeline for the film, which cannot air on the network before February due to contractual windows retained by filmmakers.
Musk has publicly dismissed the documentary as a “hit piece” and characterized it as “boring,” though no evidence suggests he has viewed the film. His legal representatives have sent notices to the production company. Multiple international distributors have expressed interest in acquiring rights should Universal decline to release the project.
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