The Hollywood Reporter, citing two people familiar with the matter, reports that the Comcast-owned studio has not set a release date or communicated its plans to the filmmaking team. The report says the film’s political subject matter is a factor as Universal considers its next move.
Directed by filmmaker Alex Gibney, the documentary received a lengthy standing ovation at the Venice Film Festival, where it examines Musk’s business career, influence and growing involvement in US politics.
The report says two people familiar with the situation believe Universal may ultimately decide not to release the documentary because of its political sensitivity and the current dynamics surrounding the Trump administration.
The studio acquired distribution rights to the film outside North America for a significant sum, but has yet to announce when it plans to make the documentary available.
Further pressure has emerged from Musk’s legal team. His attorney, Alex Spiro, reportedly sent a letter to Gibney’s production company placing it “on notice” as Universal weighs its options.
Meanwhile, HBO, which secured the documentary’s North American television and streaming rights in 2023, has continued supporting the project. The network reportedly provided additional financing and encouraged further filming after Musk became involved in the Trump administration.
Musk led the Department of Government Efficiency, known as DOGE, during the early months of President Donald Trump’s second administration, where the initiative pursued reductions in federal jobs, contracts and government spending.
Universal has not announced a final decision on the documentary’s international release.
Ademide Adebayo
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