The Elizabeth Holmes doc, You Can See Everything, has swept the Critics Choice Documentary Awards, winning all five categories it was nominated for. Directed by Nathan Fielder and Lance Oppenheim, the A24 film is now a major contender on the awards circuit. The documentary, which debuted at a surprise Telluride screening, continues to capture the public's imagination with its gripping portrayal of the infamous Theranos founder.
Since its theatrical release on October 16, the film has grossed nearly $80 million at the domestic box office, according to The Hollywood Reporter. That figure positions it as one of the highest-grossing documentaries of all time, trailing only behind giants like Fahrenheit 9/11 and Everest in the US. The buzz around the film suggests it might even snag a best picture nomination, not just best documentary feature, come Oscar season.
At the Critics Choice Documentary Awards, You Can See Everything took home the awards for best documentary feature, best director for Fielder and Oppenheim, best cinematography for David Bolen, best editing for Adam Locke-Norton, and best score for Ari Balouzian. This clean sweep underscores the film's creative and technical excellence.
Nathan Fielder and Lance Oppenheim's Directorial Triumph
Nathan Fielder and Lance Oppenheim's success at the Critics Choice Documentary Awards marks a significant milestone in their careers. Fielder, known for his comedic television work, and Oppenheim, celebrated for his innovative documentary style, have joined forces to craft a film that blends storytelling with investigative journalism. Their work on You Can See Everything shines a light on the rise and fall of Elizabeth Holmes, capturing the intricacies of her story with both depth and clarity.
Fielder and Oppenheim's partnership is a testament to the evolving landscape of documentary filmmaking, where traditional boundaries are pushed, and new narratives are explored. This collaboration has not gone unnoticed, setting a high bar for future projects in the genre. As the film continues to make waves, many are eager to see what these directors will tackle next.
Box Office Success and Oscar Speculation
The financial triumph of You Can See Everything is a rare feat in the documentary world. With nearly $80 million in domestic box office receipts, it stands as a testament to the public's fascination with Elizabeth Holmes' story. The film's success is not just limited to its box office performance; it has also captured critical acclaim, fueling speculation about its potential at the Oscars.
Industry insiders are buzzing about the possibility of You Can See Everything receiving nominations beyond the documentary category, including a nod for best picture. Ari Balouzian's haunting score and the editing prowess of Adam Locke-Norton have also put them on the radar for potential Oscar recognition. As Oscar season heats up, the film's performance at the Critics Choice Documentary Awards could be a harbinger of more accolades to come.
While the documentary has yet to open in many international markets, its domestic success hints at a promising global reception. The anticipation surrounding its international release could further bolster its standing as a top-tier documentary.
Other Notable Winners and Surprises
While You Can See Everything was the night’s biggest winner, other documentaries also made their mark. Once Upon a Time in Harlem walked away with three awards from its five nominations, showcasing its narrative strength. Meanwhile, Nuisance Bear captured the best science/nature documentary award, affirming its unique perspective on wildlife.
Ava DuVernay's 14th, which led with six nominations, surprisingly went home empty-handed. This unexpected outcome has sparked discussions about the competitive nature of this year’s awards. The event, hosted by Ross Mathews at the Edison Ballroom in New York, also honored industry veterans like Ron Howard, who received the Critics Choice Impact Award, and Jehane Noujaim, awarded the Pennebaker Award for lifetime achievement.
The Future of Documentary Filmmaking
The Critics Choice Documentary Awards highlight the dynamic and evolving nature of the documentary genre. As filmmakers like Nathan Fielder and Lance Oppenheim continue to push boundaries, the industry is seeing a surge in creativity and innovation. This year's winners reflect a diverse range of topics and styles, from political dramas to biographical explorations.
The film has already crossed over into pop culture. The night before the ceremony, Druski spoofed the documentary on "Saturday Night Live", putting on prosthetics to play Holmes himself, in the same episode that saw Texas Senator-elect James Talarico crash the cold open.
For more details on the awards and winners, visit the Hollywood Reporter or check out Deadline Hollywood's full coverage.
