Elizabeth Holmes Documentary Examines Her Complex Persona

Elizabeth Holmes once held the title of the youngest self-made billionaire in the U.S., but her success quickly unraveled. A new documentary, You Can See Everything, delves into the depths of her story. The film offers a unique experience that requires viewers to come in with little prior information. Released as a surprise screening at the Telluride Film Festival, it has captured the attention of audiences, unfolding as a one-of-a-kind cinematic journey.

Elizabeth Holmes rose to prominence in 2014, claiming to revolutionize healthcare with her startup, Theranos. However, the façade crumbled when journalists uncovered the illegitimacy of her technology. In 2022, she faced the consequences, charged with fraud and sentenced to more than 11 years in prison. Her tale has been recounted in works like Alex Gibney’s documentary The Inventor and the Emmy-winning miniseries The Dropout.

You Can See Everything provides a fresh perspective, inviting audiences into a different layer of inquiry. The film, set in 2023, features actor and director Nathan Fielder, known for his unique docu-comedy style. Fielder is joined by co-director Lance Oppenheim as they arrive at Holmes’ San Diego beach house before her imprisonment.

The documentary’s title hints at Holmes’ offer of complete transparency, but doubts linger about her true motives. Perhaps she seeks to reshape her public image as a devoted mother and partner. Holmes’ decision to collaborate with Fielder, who is adept at creating awkward, comedic situations, remains puzzling.

Throughout their time with Holmes, Fielder attempts to scrutinize her statements and contradictions. The film captures her in close-ups, endeavoring to find deeper truths within her gaze. While Fielder’s methods often involve comic strategies to uncover realities, Holmes appears trapped in her own misconceptions or, at worst, her fabrications. She insists on her honesty, asserting she’s never lied, yet Fielder’s challenge prompts viewers to question her claims.

In an effective moment, Fielder shows Holmes the classic comedic skit “Who’s on First?” to highlight her tenuous grasp of language and humor. Additionally, a scene in which Holmes and her partner, Billy Evans, watch The Dropout emphasizes Holmes’ discomfort with her actions’ truth.

As Holmes prepares for prison, the documentary shifts focus to Evans, her partner. His presence becomes more pronounced, raising suspicions about his motives. Could the scammer herself be deceived? A pivotal character introduced later in the film sends the narrative into unexpected territories, echoing Fielder’s previous works, such as The Rehearsal.

Despite his film’s artifice, Fielder frequently questions his own involvement, offering an introspective layer often absent in standard documentaries. Co-director Oppenheim also contributes significantly, his previous works displaying a strong cinematic style that enhances this film’s visual and emotional impact.

You Can See Everything is designed for big-screen viewing, with stunning visuals and captivating music. Each frame holds mysteries, inviting audiences to explore Holmes’ complex character in this intriguing examination.