STAT

Documentarian Alex Gibney has taken on Enron, Scientology — and now Theranos

Documentarian Alex Gibney's latest subject — after Enron executives, cyclist Lance Armstrong, and a Scientology leader — is Elizabeth Holmes of Theranos.
Source: Kristoffer Tripplaar/AP

For more news about West Coast life sciences, health care, and biotech, sign up to receive “Go West,” STAT’s weekly newsletter.

SAN FRANCISCO — In Alex Gibney’s career as a documentarian, he’s spent a lot of time peering into ingenious fraudsters, liars, and questionable charismatic figures. Among them: the Enron executives, the cyclist Lance Armstrong, and Scientology leader David Miscavige.

Which is why it comes as no surprise that his latest subject is Elizabeth Holmes.

Gibney’s Theranos documentary, “The Inventor,” will be in theaters for one week starting on Friday in San Francisco, Los Angeles, and New York City. It will premiere on HBO on Monday night. STAT sat down with Gibney to talk about his new film at a premiere on Monday night here in the lion’s den.

In your view, how does Elizabeth Holmes compare to some of these other figures you’ve made films about? In what ways does she stand out — and where do you

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from STAT

STAT1 min read
Opinion: STAT+: How AI Can Help Satisfy FDA’s Drug, Device Diversity Requirements
To meet the Food and Drug Omnibus Reform Act, companies must rethink their current clinical trial strategies. Including AI and machine learning approaches can help.
STAT1 min read
USDA Faulted For Disclosing Scant Information About Outbreaks Of H5N1 Avian Flu In Cattle
With 28 herds in eight states infected with H5N1 bird flu, scientists are calling on the U.S. to release more data to help them assess the risk.
STAT2 min read
STAT+: Pharmalittle: We’re Reading About Lilly’s Zepbound For Sleep Apnea, The FDA Budget, And More
Eli Lilly reported positive results for Zepbound in obstructive sleep apnea, giving the medication a new edge in the highly competitive obesity market.

Related Books & Audiobooks