Key facts
- Filmmaker Alex Gibney's documentary "Musk" premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival.
- Gibney hopes the film will prompt global discussions about reclaiming power from "tech oligarchs."
- The documentary examines Elon Musk's rise as CEO of Tesla, SpaceX, and Twitter.
- The film features interviews with Musk's father, Errol Musk, and former Tesla CEO Martin Eberhard.
- Musk has criticized the film on X as "false" and threatened to sue Gibney.
Filmmaker Alex Gibney's marathon documentary "Musk," which had its North American premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival, aims to provoke conversations about citizens reclaiming power from "tech oligarchs." Gibney stated that the film, which expanded in scope after Elon Musk became a close aide to U.S. President Donald Trump, explores how absolute power can corrupt or reveal character.
The documentary traces Musk's career from the dotcom era, including his purchase of a McLaren, his leadership at Tesla and SpaceX, and his acquisition of Twitter, which made him the world's richest person. The film includes interviews with Musk's father, Errol Musk, former Tesla CEO Martin Eberhard, and Musk's former partner Ashley St. Clair.
Musk has publicly criticized the film on his social media platform X, calling it "false" and threatening legal action. Gibney stated that the film underwent rigorous fact-checking and legal review. Musk did not respond to a request for comment, according to Reuters. The film also features a simulated interview with Musk, based on his public statements, and sequences depicting him firing Twitter employees.