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Universal Pictures’ release of the Elon Musk documentary has received a promising update. Previous reports suggested that the studio might drop its plans to distribute the film. However, new talks about the decision look positive.
Universal Pictures, which had been considering whether to release Alex Gibney’s documentary Musk internationally, might decide to release the film after all.
A recent article by The Hollywood Reporter cited sources who claimed that the studio might relinquish the film and return the rights to its producers. The report sparked backlash, prompting the studio execs to reconsider the decision during a series of internal meetings.
According to the latest update, a studio insider says that talks at Universal Pictures “have progressed enough that Universal will ultimately keep the film and go forward with its distribution plan.”
Universal chief Evan Langweiler further told the outlet, “The studio remains committed to releasing it in theaters internationally. We’re currently working through a release strategy.”
Why the release of Alex Gibney’s Musk has become complicated
Alex Gibney’s Musk documentary has drawn controversy following its world premiere at the 83rd Venice International Film Festival on September 8. Despite receiving widespread critical acclaim and a four-minute standing ovation at the premiere, Universal Pictures raised questions about its plans to release the movie due to concerns about its politically sensitive subject matter.
Musk has criticized Gibney over the film, calling it “a hit piece that misses” and a “psy op.” The Tesla CEO also threatened to take legal action against the movie. In a letter to Gibney’s production company Jigsaw Productions, Musk’s attorney Alex Spiro wrote, “You are … on notice, before release, that the insinuation is false, that the material refuting it is public, and that you chose not to be told the rest.” (via New York Post)
In his response, Gibney stated, “I reached out immediately… But he clearly wasn’t interested in talking. We made so many formal outreaches to him, and with the exception of his remarks on Twitter, we received nothing back.”
Musk is set to open in select U.S. theaters on October 9, 2026, before expanding nationwide on October 16 through Bleecker Street.
