Key facts
- Elon Musk promoted the film 'Citizen Vigilante' on his platform X, making it available for free viewing.
- The film depicts extreme violence and vigilante actions against Muslim migrants and perceived 'woke' officials.
- Musk has amplified anti-immigration rhetoric and supported far-right political figures and parties in Europe.
- He has used X to share messages portraying white people as under threat and endorsing 'remigration' policies.
- Critics argue Musk's actions on X are radicalizing and amplifying dangerous conspiracy theories and hate speech.
Elon Musk has leveraged his social media platform X to promote 'Citizen Vigilante,' a violent film that has been lauded by far-right activists for its anti-immigrant and anti-'woke' themes. The film, directed by Uwe Boll and starring Armie Hammer, depicts extreme vigilante violence, including the murder of migrants and officials.
Musk made the film available for free on X for 48 hours, briefly boosting its visibility on streaming platforms. He has also reposted messages that describe vigilante murder as a 'moderate response' to crimes committed by immigrants and has expressed support for right-wing politicians and parties across Europe, including Marine Le Pen of France's National Rally.
Experts suggest Musk's engagement with these ideas is influenced by his own network and the content on X, which has become a haven for far-right beliefs since content moderation rules were relaxed. Musk has frequently shared messages from white nationalist and far-right activists, portraying white people as under threat and endorsing the concept of 'remigration,' which advocates for mass deportations.
Critics, including historians and researchers from groups like the Center for Countering Digital Hate, argue that Musk is using his influence and platform to amplify dangerous rhetoric, conspiracy theories, and hate speech. Some messages reposted by Musk have been linked to calls for violence. Despite criticism, Musk defended promoting the film, stating it is 'a movie and it's worth watching' and that 'there was out of control rape and murder' in Europe.