Actor's Anti-Crypto Film Blocked? McKenzie Blames Trump Influence

Ben McKenzie's documentary, "Everyone Is Lying to You for Money," which critiques the cryptocurrency industry, is encountering significant hurdles with major streaming platforms. McKenzie speculates that potential negative repercussions from the Trump administration, due to President Trump's substantial profits from crypto investments, are deterring these services from licensing the film. This comes despite the documentary receiving universal acclaim and performing well in its limited theatrical run.

McKenzie, who self-funded the film using savings and earnings from betting against crypto, expressed frustration over closed or difficult-to-access distribution avenues. He views this situation as a consequence of his film's outspoken criticism of crypto's perceived corruption and lack of regulation. The documentary, available for rent or purchase on August 22, aims for a direct-to-consumer release via Eventive to circumvent traditional VOD gatekeepers.

The film's release strategy emphasizes viewer interaction, with plans for a live Q&A session featuring McKenzie, his wife Morena Baccarin, and crypto experts. McKenzie, an economics major, became deeply concerned about crypto's unregulated nature during the COVID-19 lockdown, noting its potential for illicit activities and exploitation of retail investors. He believes crypto operates in a regulatory gray area, avoiding laws applicable to securities.

McKenzie has also voiced criticism of celebrities endorsing crypto, including Kim Kardashian and Matt Damon, arguing they promoted unregulated securities without proper licensing. He acknowledges potential career repercussions but stands by his critique of the cryptocurrency sector.