From The Hollywood Reporter · Steven Zeitchik · · 1m
Universal Cuts Musk Doc After Political Pressure
Universal may drop Elon Musk documentary due to Trump administration tensions
In brief
Universal may drop Elon Musk documentary due to Trump administration tensions Universal is reconsidering release of Musk doc amid political sensitivities Originally reported by The Hollywood Reporter.
Universal Backs Out of Musk Doc
Universal may cancel releasing the Elon Musk documentary after political concerns
“Universal has not dated the movie, has not communicated with the filmmaking team about its plans”
Venice Festival Success
The documentary received enthusiastic applause at Venice Film Festival with attendees shouting thank you
“Attendees applauded enthusiastically for five minutes and saluted director Alex Gibney”
Political Sensitivity
The film's focus on Musk's potential election interference concerns Trump administration
“It's fairly clear to me that Trump is hell-bent on corrupting the midterm elections”
FCC Chair Support
FCC Chair Brendan Carr defends Musk and has worked closely with him
“Brendan Carr privately reveres the tycoon”
Musk's Response
Musk calls the documentary a hit piece and claims it's boring despite not watching it
“Musk has repeatedly called it a hit piece and said it was boring”
HBO's Role
HBO secured North American rights and provided additional funding for the film
“HBO pressed Gibney to continue shooting when Musk arrived in Washington”
Potential Legal Issues
Angering FCC Chair could bring regulatory headaches for Universal
“Angering Carr with a Musk release could potentially bring more legal and regulatory headaches”
Universal's Past Commitment
Universal bought Musk documentary rights three years ago for a multimillion-dollar price
“Universal bought the rights to Musk three years ago, paying a multimillion-dollar price tag”
The one thing
Universal is reconsidering release of Musk doc amid political sensitivities
