Multinational tech giant, Apple has secured the rights to author Michael Lewis’ forthcoming book, “Going Infinite: The Rise and Fall of a New Tycoon,” centered around former FTX CEO Sam “SBF” Bankman-Fried. This major literary acquisition comes at a crucial time. Also, the book’s release date set for October 3, coincides with the commencement of SBF’s criminal trial in New York.
The Bidding War for Literary Gold
The story broke on September 7 when The Ankler, a reputable news source, unveiled Apple’s astounding $5 million investment in the book’s rights. Michael Lewis, renowned for works like “The Big Short,” initially hinted at an October publication date during his appearance at the Bitcoin 2023 conference in Miami, strategically aligning with the onset of SBF’s high-stakes trial.
In an intriguing twist, director Nanette Burstein, known for her work on films about notable figures like John McAfee and Hillary Clinton, is reportedly crafting a documentary about Sam Bankman-Fried. This documentary is poised to capture the essence of the enigmatic CEO, whose unique fashion sense and hair have made him a prominent figure in the crypto world.
Challenges in the Film Industry
However, the path to producing such documentaries faces obstacles in the form of ongoing strikes by the Writers Guild of America, the Screen Actors Guild, and the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists.
These unions are pressing the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers for resolutions on certain issues. These range from streaming media residuals to the potential use of artificial intelligence in the industry’s future.
The Rise and Fall of SBF
Long before the downfall of crypto exchange FTX and his arrest in the Bahamas, Sam Bankman-Fried’s story was making waves. Once hailed as a rising star in the crypto world, he oversaw billions of dollars in assets at Alameda Research and FTX.
Notably, his public appearances often featured a laid-back style of T-shirts, shorts, and sneakers. However, during court proceedings, SBF opted for a more formal look in a suit and tie.
A Documentary Landscape in Crypto
The crypto world has seen its share of captivating documentaries. From Netflix’s “Trust No One: The Hunt for the Crypto King” about QuadrigaCX’s Gerald Cotten to explorations of Coinbase co-founder Brian Armstrong’s journey. Before the writer’s strike, there were even whispers of a film delving into the dynamic relationship between Bankman-Fried and Binance CEO Changpeng Zhao.
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