Ben McKenzie, widely recognized for his performances in popular TV series like *Gotham* and *The O.C.*, is stepping into the realm of directing with a bold documentary that takes a critical look at the world of cryptocurrency. His film, titled *Everyone Is Lying To You For Money*, is set to premiere at the SXSW London festival this June and marks his first foray into directing.
The documentary, which McKenzie also wrote and produced, delves into the controversies and challenges surrounding the cryptocurrency industry. According to a report from Deadline published on April 29, the film includes striking footage that dates back to 2022, capturing insights from Sam Bankman-Fried, the former CEO of FTX, and Alex Mashinsky, the former CEO of Celsius. Both of their companies faced significant turmoil and ultimately collapsed, making their voices in the film particularly relevant and provocative.
In discussing his motivations for creating the documentary, McKenzie expressed a compelling curiosity: “Why is the false story of crypto still spreading?” This question fueled his desire to explore the complexities and misrepresentations within the cryptocurrency narrative. He aims to shed light on the underlying issues that continue to perpetuate misconceptions about this digital financial landscape.
In an effort to challenge the hype surrounding cryptocurrency, McKenzie has transitioned from his established career in Hollywood to actively engage with the more serious aspects of this financial revolution. Working alongside Jacob Silverman, a staff writer for The New Republic, McKenzie began voicing concerns about the cryptocurrency industry as early as 2021. His concerns soon turned even more pressing following the shocking collapse of FTX in November 2022, an event that sent shockwaves through the financial community and led to investigations on a national scale.
Following the fallout from FTX, McKenzie went a step further by testifying in front of a U.S. Senate hearing that looked into the factors leading to the event’s demise. His involvement in these discussions underscores his commitment to addressing the challenges posed by cryptocurrency and the lack of accountability that can be found within the sector.
The documentary promises not just to feature interviews with Bankman-Fried and Mashinsky but also to delve into broader implications involving prominent figures in the crypto world. Of particular interest is El Salvador’s President, Nayib Bukele, who has garnered attention for his enthusiastic adoption of Bitcoin as legal tender in his country back in 2021. McKenzie’s exploration of Bukele’s connections to cryptocurrency could provide crucial insight into the political and economic ramifications of legalizing digital currencies and the challenges that accompany such bold moves.
As the film nears its premiere, many are left wondering what revelations might emerge from the conversations with Bankman-Fried and Mashinsky. They have been influential in shaping the current narrative around cryptocurrency, but their fates have also taken stark turns, revealing the darker side of the industry. McKenzie’s insights in the film may pave the way for a deeper understanding of the systemic issues that have led to such high-profile failures.
The legal troubles faced by both Bankman-Fried and Mashinsky are notable as the narrative of cryptocurrency continues to evolve. Bankman-Fried was recently convicted of multiple felony charges tied to the catastrophic collapse of FTX, resulting in a 25-year prison sentence handed down in 2024. Meanwhile, Mashinsky’s journey took a different path as he pleaded guilty to two felony charges in December 2024, in a plea deal with U.S. prosecutors, and is set to be sentenced shortly. Authorities have recommended a 20-year prison sentence for him, reflecting the seriousness of the charges against him.
These legal developments emphasize the immense consequences that can arise from the mismanagement and fraudulent activities within the cryptocurrency sector. The stories of Bankman-Fried and Mashinsky serve as cautionary tales, underscoring the importance of scrutiny and regulatory oversight in an industry that has often prioritized rapid growth and innovation over stability and ethical standards.
As McKenzie navigates this new chapter in his career, his documentary could play a vital role in informing the public about the realities of cryptocurrency and the dangers of unchecked enthusiasm. The film could spark necessary conversations about regulation, accountability, and the intersections of technology and finance in our modern world.
With the rising popularity of crypto and its integration into various financial systems, it is more important than ever to critically assess the claims made by advocates of digital currency. McKenzie’s work could serve as a critical lens through which viewers can understand the complexities and potential pitfalls of cryptocurrency, helping to demystify an often murky landscape.
As the excitement builds for the film’s premiere at SXSW London, audiences are likely to look forward to a gripping depiction of the world of cryptocurrency, guided by McKenzie’s unique perspective. His transition from actor to director signals a depth of engagement with the subject matter that could resonate with viewers and encourage them to examine their own beliefs and understanding of cryptocurrency.
Whether McKenzie’s documentary will change perceptions and spark dialogue remains to be seen, but it undeniably represents an important contribution to the ongoing conversation about cryptocurrency and its future. As society grapples with the realities of digital finance, films like *Everyone Is Lying To You For Money* will play a crucial role in shaping public discourse and fostering a greater understanding of this dynamic and evolving sector.
In wrapping up, it’s essential to acknowledge that McKenzie is not simply telling a story; he is shining a light on a multifaceted issue that impacts millions and will likely continue to shape the financial landscape for years to come. He aims to inform, provoke thought, and incite change—all through the lens of his new film, making it a highly anticipated debut for the actor-turned-director. As the world waits to see the film, the conversation has already begun, and McKenzie’s contributions to the dialogue around cryptocurrency are sure to be impactful.