Universal Pictures Delays Decision on Elon Musk Documentary Release

Universal Pictures, which holds the non-U.S. distribution rights to Alex Gibney's four-hour documentary on Elon Musk, has not announced a release schedule and appears to be reconsidering its plans. Sources familiar with the matter said the studio may ultimately decide not to release the film and return the rights to the producers, though no final decision has been made.

The documentary, which premiered at the Venice Film Festival and is slated for a U.S. theatrical launch by independent distributor Bleecker Street and a screening at the London Film Festival, has attracted interest from distributors worldwide. However, Universal has not coordinated a parallel release in Europe.

When asked about its strategy, a Universal spokesperson declined to comment.

"We have no comment at this time," the studio representative said.

If Universal chooses to withdraw, it would be required to pay a kill fee to the filmmakers, allowing them to seek a new buyer for the rights. HBO has already secured North American television and streaming rights and plans a possible broadcast in February, subject to a four-month VOD window.

The film includes allegations that data collected during Musk's promotion of the cryptocurrency DOGE could be used to influence U.S. elections, featuring commentary from AI researcher Geoffrey Hinton. Musk has publicly dismissed the documentary as a "hit piece" and his attorney has sent a notice to the production company.

Industry observers note that the decision comes as media companies face heightened scrutiny over political pressures, citing recent examples of other studios altering distribution plans under similar circumstances.