The documentary, produced by Fortune and Unrealistic Ideas, examines the personal and professional relationship between FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried and Binance founder and CEO Changpeng "CZ" Zhao. The story behind these two cryptocurrency leaders has captured the attention of people around the world.
A behind-the-scenes look at the crypto world
The story begins with Bankman-Fried's youth, growing up in a prominent academic family with political connections, and the childhood of Zhao, who fled China to Canada with his family at the age of 12. Together, the two men became dominant figures in the crypto scene and developed a unique relationship that alternated between allies and rivals. Bankman-Fried sought a high media presence for FTX, relying on celebrity endorsements and political influence, while Zhao focused on a more hands-on approach to building Binance.
The tension between FTX and Binance increased as FTX faced financial problems, and Binance stated its intention to buy FTX. However, following a due diligence investigation, Binance withdrew from the offering. Bankman-Fried has accused Zhao of leading a campaign to destroy his company, including FTX's sister exchange Alameda.
The documentary features participation from Zhao, as well as other key Binance executives, FTX executives, and leaders from other major crypto companies. The production expertise of Unrealistic Ideas, which has produced the Emmy-nominated "McMillions," is combined with Fortune-winning journalistic resources to deliver an in-depth, personal look at the entire FTX story.
Coin: A Founder's Story
This is not the first documentary that recounts the life and challenges of the founder of a cryptocurrency exchange. Brian Armstrong, CEO of Coinbase, showed the most real face of his company in a documentary called "Coin: A Founder's Story". On this occasion, the creation process of Coinbase was shown, as well as, the impact it has had on the cryptocurrency industry.
Through exclusive interviews and full access to the company, the documentary aims to give a unique and detailed look at the turbulent relationship between Coinbase and its rivals, as well as its impact on the crypto scene. Armstrong, like his team, decided to "be transparent and give the recording team complete freedom to show all aspects of the company," he said, including the challenges and difficulties they have faced.
Bankman-Fried vs. Changpeng Zhao
This documentary will offer viewers a unique and detailed look at the turbulent relationship between Bankman-Fried and Zhao and its impact on the crypto scene. With exclusive access to the main protagonists and storytellers, this project promises to be an in-depth examination of the ups and downs and challenges they faced on their path to success and the tensions that arise when two dominant figures compete in an ever-evolving marketplace.
Ultimately, this documentary will offer a deeper understanding of human nature, ambition, perseverance, and how those factors can influence the building and success of a company. This could be a shocking and surprising story that not only catches the eye of cryptocurrency lovers but also those interested in the lives and careers of business leaders.
The SBF and CZ documentary could be a unique opportunity to enter the hearts and minds of two of the most controversial characters in the crypto world, both for their contributions and, in the case of Bankman-Fried, for their malpractice.