Ben McKenzie, best known for his roles in Gotham and The O.C., is stepping into a new role-as a documentary filmmaker. His upcoming film, Everyone Is Lying To You For Money, premieres in June 2025 at SXSW London. It dives deep into the world of cryptocurrency, revealing stories of fraud, misinformation, and the real impact on people’s lives.
A Closer Look at Crypto’s Dark Side
The documentary features exclusive interviews with some of crypto’s most infamous figures-filmed before their public downfalls. Sam Bankman-Fried, founder of FTX, appears in footage shot months before his indictment and 25-year prison sentence. Alex Mashinsky, the Celsius Network founder, shares his side before his company’s bankruptcy and guilty plea. Even Nayib Bukele, the President of El Salvador, discusses his bold Bitcoin policies.
These interviews give viewers a rare glimpse into the promises and pitfalls of the crypto world. McKenzie also talks with whistleblowers and victims, showing the personal cost of scams and failed projects.
Personal Motivation and Senate Testimony
McKenzie’s journey into crypto skepticism began during the COVID pandemic. The documentary includes scenes from his home life, showing how his curiosity turned into concern. His economics background helps him analyze the industry critically.
One of the film’s most powerful moments is McKenzie’s testimony before the US Senate Banking Committee. There, he calls crypto “the largest Ponzi scheme in history,” challenging the hype and urging lawmakers to act.
What to Expect
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Premiere | SXSW London, June 2025 |
| Director | Ben McKenzie |
| Key Interviews | Sam Bankman-Fried, Alex Mashinsky, Nayib Bukele |
| Themes | Crypto fraud, misinformation, regulatory failures, personal stories |
| Notable Scenes | Senate testimony, whistleblower accounts, victim stories |
| Previous Work | Book: Easy Money (2023, with Jacob Silverman) |
Why This Documentary Matters
McKenzie’s film goes beyond headlines. It shows the human side of crypto’s rise and fall. The documentary asks why the crypto myth keeps growing, even as evidence of fraud piles up. It challenges viewers to think critically about the promises of quick riches and decentralized finance.
Key Takeaways
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Real interviews with crypto leaders before their scandals broke.
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Stories from victims and whistleblowers reveal the damage done.
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McKenzie’s economics insight shapes a clear, critical narrative.
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The film raises tough questions about crypto’s future and regulation.
FAQs
Q: When and where can I watch it?
The documentary premieres at SXSW London in June 2025.
What’s the main message?
Crypto often hides fraud behind flashy promises.
Is this McKenzie’s first documentary?
Yes, it’s his directorial debut.
Does the film suggest solutions?
It focuses on exposing problems and sparking conversation.
Why did McKenzie make this film?
He wants to warn the public about crypto’s risks and false promises.
Ben McKenzie’s documentary invites you to look past the hype. It challenges you to ask: Is crypto really the future, or just another bubble waiting to burst?
What would you want to know if you could sit down with crypto’s biggest players?
