Filmmaker hopes 'Musk' documentary sparks debate on tech power

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.