Eddie Huang’s new documentary: A deep dive into Vice’s rise and fall
A night to remember at the Toronto Film Festival
Eddie Huang, the multifaceted author, chef, and former host of the now-defunct media company’s show, “Huang’s World,” made a significant splash at the Toronto Film Festival’s opening night. He was there to present his latest documentary, “Vice Is Broke”, a film that serves as both a tribute and a critique of Vice Media’s tumultuous journey.
The dual nature of Vice Media
“Vice Is Broke” is a compelling narrative that captures the essence of Vice’s anarchic spirit and the generations of audacious journalists and filmmakers it nurtured. However, it also delves into the darker aspects of the company’s history, highlighting the greed and questionable ethics that led to its downfall and eventual Chapter 11 bankruptcy. Huang, who managed to get a non-disclosure agreement waived in exchange for unpaid residuals, made it clear that Vice, or what remains of it, isn’t thrilled with his portrayal.
Legal battles and leadership criticism
During a Q&A session following the documentary’s premiere at TIFF Lightbox Cinema, Huang revealed ongoing legal challenges. “Their lawyers are still trying to fight us on this film,” he stated. He also mentioned that Shane Smith, the controversial co-founder of Vice, refused to be interviewed for the documentary. Smith’s bad-boy reputation had once attracted significant investments from media giants, but Huang criticized his leadership and behavior post-bankruptcy. “He threatened legal action,” Huang said. “They’ve been sending legal letters. You know, Shane, in so many words, is a coward. He left all of his friends and co-workers out to dry.”
A personal investment in storytelling
Huang invested $380,000 of his own money to create the documentary, which celebrates Vice’s early days as a free magazine known for its provocative content. The film also chronicles Vice’s evolution into a global media powerhouse, covering conflict zones like Sierra Leone and Liberia. However, Huang pointed out that Vice often focused on the violence and conflict in these regions, neglecting the positive aspects of their cultures and people.
“Do I regret what happened to Vice?” Huang pondered. “Yeah, I think it’s really sad what happened to that company because it was a really special place for young people to get their artistic work off.”
The influence of Gavin McInnes
The documentary also examines the role of Gavin McInnes, another co-founder of Vice, in shaping the company’s subversive style. McInnes, who left Vice in 2008, later founded the Proud Boys, a far-right organization. He agreed to be interviewed for the documentary, using the opportunity to defend free speech while making controversial remarks.
“You can be a free speech guy, you can be a right to bear arms guy, but you have to also measure ultimate freedom and theoretical ideas of freedom with hurting people,” Huang said of McInnes. “What is the purpose of your art if you’re hurting people more than you’re uplifting them or teaching them?”
Reflections on Vice’s legacy
For cinema and TV series enthusiasts, ”Vice Is Broke” offers a fascinating look at the rise and fall of a media empire that once seemed unstoppable. The documentary is not just a historical account but a personal reflection on the impact of Vice on the media landscape and the ethical dilemmas that come with pushing boundaries.
For those interested in exploring more about the documentary, you can watch the trailer for “Vice Is Broke” here.
A broader context
Vice Media’s story is a cautionary tale about the perils of rapid expansion and the ethical compromises that can accompany it. It serves as a reminder that while pushing boundaries and challenging norms can lead to groundbreaking work, it also requires a strong ethical foundation to sustain long-term success.
For those who have followed Vice’s journey, Huang’s documentary provides a nuanced perspective that balances admiration for the company’s early achievements with a critical eye on its later missteps. It’s a must-watch for anyone interested in the intersection of media, ethics, and the relentless pursuit of storytelling.
“Vice Is Broke” is more than just a documentary; it’s a conversation starter about the future of media and the responsibilities that come with wielding influence. Whether you’re a fan of Vice or a critic, Huang’s film offers valuable insights that will leave you pondering long after the credits roll.