A new documentary about Kanye West has surfaced, cloaked in secrecy, exclusively revealing its title, In Whose Name?, along with a first-look image and early details.
Filmed over six years, the documentary promises never-before-seen footage that will provide a “unique and cinematic perspective on Ye’s public transformation.” (West legally changed his name to Ye in 2021.)
Goodfellas and Utopia are collaborating to launch international sales for In Whose Name? at the American Film Market, with a promo reel set to screen exclusively on November 7.
The official synopsis states: “With a billion-dollar budget and dedication to truth, Ye, formerly Kanye West, invites 18-year-old Nicolas Ballesteros, armed only with an iPhone, on a six-year journey that unveils unfiltered aspects of celebrity life.
The film delves into Ye’s provocative opinions, grand visions, and bold contrarianism, elements that made him one of the world’s most controversial artists.
It chronicles his rise to become the richest Black man in U.S. history, examining why he risked his empire for the sake of freedom.
Going through the culture that shaped him, In Whose Name? investigates corporate exploitation, racial complexities, and the psychological challenges embedded in the American dream.”
Currently in post-production, In Whose Name? was produced by Ballesteros, with Jack M. Russell and Shy Ranje as co-producers. Justin Staple serves as co-executive producer, while David Bullock is associate producer.
“We’re excited to present In Whose Name? at AFM,” said Marie Zeniter, Utopia’s vice president of sales, alongside Eva Diederix, head of sales at Goodfellas.
“This documentary provides an unfiltered, narration-free view, allowing audiences to draw their own conclusions on themes of fame, religion, and power.
We believe viewers worldwide should have the opportunity to see how one of the world’s most influential figures navigates the contradictions and complexities of celebrity.”
In recent years, West has garnered attention less for his music and more for his high-profile controversies, including his marriage and subsequent divorce from Kim Kardashian, his unsuccessful 2020 presidential bid, and a series of antisemitic remarks that cost him major sponsorships.
Although these incidents aren’t explicitly mentioned in the documentary’s description, sources indicate that the film, which covers this tumultuous timeframe, is likely to touch on some of these controversies.
Those involved are committed to keeping specific content under wraps, maintaining the mystery surrounding In Whose Name?