The short version
- The documentary 'You Can See Everything' is the highest-grossing US documentary in 15 years.
- Viewership of the podcast and TV series 'The Dropout' has surged by 900% and 700% respectively.
- John Carreyrou’s book 'Bad Blood' has returned to bestseller lists.
A new documentary titled 'You Can See Everything,' directed by Nathan Fielder and Lance Oppenheim, has ignited a wave of renewed interest in the story of Elizabeth Holmes. The film, produced by A24, explores the rise and fall of Theranos, the blood-testing startup founded by Holmes that was ultimately exposed as a fraud. Its release has been met with critical acclaim and commercial success.
Just two weeks after its debut in US cinemas, 'You Can See Everything' has become the highest-grossing documentary in the United States in 15 years. This remarkable achievement underscores the public's enduring fascination with Holmes and the Theranos saga. Audiences have responded to the film's unique blend of comedy and psychological drama, finding it both spellbinding and unsettling.
The documentary’s success has had a ripple effect across other media platforms. The ABC News podcast 'The Dropout,' hosted by Rebecca Jarvis, reported a 900% surge in listeners following the film's release. Similarly, the Disney/Hulu television series of the same name experienced a 700% bump in viewership. These figures highlight how new content can revitalize interest in existing narratives.
Even older materials have seen a resurgence. John Carreyrou’s book 'Bad Blood,' which first detailed the Theranos scandal, has returned to bestseller lists. This indicates that audiences are eager to delve deeper into the facts and background of the case, seeking comprehensive understanding beyond what the documentary offers. The cross-media engagement suggests a holistic consumption of the story.
'You Can See Everything' distinguishes itself by exploring whether Holmes can convince viewers of her innocence, rather than simply asserting her guilt or innocence. This approach adds a layer of complexity to the narrative, inviting audiences to question their perceptions and biases. Fielder’s background in performance art and pranksterism lends a surreal quality to the film, making it stand out from traditional documentaries.
The film has also prompted viewers to re-examine previous portrayals of Holmes. Many are returning to 'The Dropout' series with fresh eyes, noticing details they may have missed before. This re-engagement allows for a deeper appreciation of the investigative journalism that uncovered the fraud. It also highlights the evolving nature of public opinion on high-profile cases.
Holmes was sentenced to more than 11 years in prison for defrauding investors, though this sentence has been reduced several times since. The documentary does not shy away from the legal and ethical implications of her actions, providing context for the severity of the fraud. It also touches on the broader issues of innovation, regulation, and accountability in the tech industry.
The 'Holmes mania' described by critics reflects a cultural moment where audiences are grappling with themes of deception and ambition. The film’s ability to resonate with such a wide audience suggests that these themes are universally relevant. It serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked hype and the importance of due diligence.
As the documentary continues to gain traction, it is likely to influence future discussions about Holmes and Theranos. Its impact on public perception could shape how the case is remembered in history. The film’s success also demonstrates the power of storytelling to keep important issues in the public consciousness.
Ultimately, 'You Can See Everything' is more than just a documentary; it is a cultural phenomenon that has reignited interest in one of the most significant business scandals of the decade. Its ability to drive engagement across multiple platforms speaks to its quality and relevance. As audiences continue to explore the story, the legacy of Theranos will remain a subject of intense scrutiny and debate.
Sources behind this briefing
Go to the original reporting
- The Guardian US↗Elizabeth Holmes mania: how the buzziest film of the year has resurrected a gut-twisting TV drama
- ABC7 Bay Area↗What to know about former Theranos founder Elizabeth Holmes documentary 'You Can See Everything' from Nathan Fielder, A24
- NPR↗What we learned (and didn't) about Elizabeth Holmes in 'You Can See Everything'
