New documentary explores Elon Musk’s political influence and legal scrutiny

Gibney highlighted Musk’s substantial financial contributions to Republican political groups, exceeding $474 million this election cycle. He noted, “last I looked things weren’t going Elon’s way, particularly in Texas.” Recent election results saw James Talrico elected to the Senate and Gina Hinojosa as governor, marking significant Democratic wins in Texas, a state where Democrats haven’t secured statewide victories in over three decades.

Musk had previously donated at least $158 million to super PACs supporting Ken Paxton, Talrico’s opponent. Gibney commented on Musk’s wealth, stating, “He now has such an extraordinary amount of money that dropping $500 million on an election means nothing to him.” However, he also raised concerns about the potential impact of declining stock values on Musk’s companies.

The documentary incorporates interviews with tech entrepreneurs, former employees, and two of Musk’s former partners, Justine Wilson and Ashley St. Clair. Katie Drummond, WIRED global editorial director, and Zoë Schiffer, a WIRED contributing editor, also participated in the film.

Musk himself declined to be interviewed, prompting Gibney’s team to create a simulated version of him using his past public statements and a digital avatar. Musk has publicly criticized the documentary as a “hit piece,” and his attorney, Alex Spiro, sent a letter to Jigsaw Productions threatening a defamation lawsuit.

The film’s distribution has faced some challenges, with initial reluctance from YouTube, TikTok, Meta, and X to advertise the trailer. Bleecker Street, the film’s distributor, accelerated the release date following positive festival reviews. *Musk* will be available for rental or purchase starting November 6, concluding its theatrical run.