The first image from the top-secret documentary on Kanye ‘Ye’ West ‘In Whose Name? has been revealed, with Variety reporting that the upcoming title has been in the works over the last six years.
Producer Nicolas Ballesteros filmed Ye’s journey using an iPhone, stating: “With a billion-dollar budget and a commitment to truth, Ye, formerly known as Kanye West, invites 18-year-old Nicolas Ballesteros armed with an iPhone on a six-year journey revealing unfiltered aspects of celebrity life which confront the provocative opinions, grand visions and bold contrarianism that defined him as the world’s most controversial artist.” Ballesteros produces alongside Jack M. Russell and Shy Ranje, while Justin Staple serves as co-executive producer and David Bullock is an associate producer.
The synopsis reads, “The film follows Ye’s ascent to becoming the richest Black man in American history while uncovering why the superstar risked everything he had built in the name of freedom. Examining the culture that birthed the star, ‘In Whose Name?’ explores the overlapping influences of corporate exploitation, racial complexities and psychological struggles inherent in the American dream.”
Marie Zeniter, vice president of sales at Utopia and Eva Diederix, head of sales at Goodfellas, said in a statement: “We’re thrilled to present ‘In Whose Name?’ at AFM. This powerful documentary offers an unfiltered view without narration, it invites audiences to draw their own conclusions on themes of fame, religion and power. We believe audiences globally deserve the chance to witness how one of the world’s most influential figures navigates the complexities and contradictions of celebrity.”
The documentary even has Ye’s stamp of approval; in a screenshot shared by Ballesteros on Instagram on November 1, the rapper said “The doc was very deep. It was like being dead and looking back on my life,” to which Ballesteros answered, “This is the most profound text message I have ever received. I love you brother.”
Check out the first image here.
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