Anticipation for the documentary 'You Can See Everything' has reached a fever pitch across Europe, with major screening chains adding extra showings to meet surging demand. Directed by Nathan Fielder and Lance Oppenheim, the nearly three-hour film focuses on Elizabeth Holmes, the founder of Theranos. Although the movie has not yet opened in many international territories, early indicators suggest it could become a massive commercial success in the coming weeks.
In the United Kingdom, where A24 is handling the self-release, tickets have sold out a month before the November 20 opening date. Chains such as Picturehouse and Cineworld have responded by scheduling additional screenings. A U.K. distribution executive described the buzz as unprecedented, noting that audiences are desperate to see the film. The executive predicted that based on pre-bookings, the movie could become one of the largest documentaries in history.
The current record for the most successful documentary in the U.K., excluding concert films, is held by 'Fahrenheit 9/11' from 2004, which grossed approximately $16.6 million when adjusted for inflation. Industry observers expect 'You Can See Everything' to surpass this figure. To accommodate the high demand, A24 is planning to release the film in around 500 British cinemas immediately, a significant jump compared to the staggered rollout strategy used in the United States.
France is experiencing a similar wave of enthusiasm. Distributor Metropolitan Filmexport organized nationwide sneak previews for December 1 in roughly 100 theaters. Victor Hadida, the company's president, reported that tickets sold out within hours of going on sale. He noted that demand remains enormous, with social media activity and in-theater inquiries highlighting the public's strong interest in the film.
Unlike the U.K. approach, Metropolitan Filmexport will follow a progressive rollout in France, opening in 150 to 200 theaters before expanding based on continued demand. The December 30 release date was chosen to align with the Christmas holidays, allowing moviegoers more time for the film's long runtime. The previews are intended to build word of mouth, which has been a crucial driver of the film's success so far.
Sony Pictures has acquired rights for 29 territories across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and South America. The company has announced opening dates ranging from November 19 to December 9. Expectations are particularly high in Scandinavia, where the film will open in Denmark, Finland, Norway, and Sweden within a 48-hour window starting November 19. Germany is also a key market, with a release scheduled for December 3. The anticipation is such that a German fan recently crossed the border into Poland to attend a preview screening on November 6.
Promotional plans remain somewhat fluid due to the film's unpredictable trajectory. Fielder and Oppenheim are expected to attend two BAFTA screenings in London next week, suggesting they may stay for the U.K. premiere. Metropolitan also hopes to bring the directors to Paris in December. However, publicity teams are keeping details minimal to preserve the mystery of the film.
Standard media lines and public Q&As may be limited to awards voters to prevent spoilers. A publicity insider explained that the strategy is to let the film speak for itself. This approach mirrors A24's marketing tactics, which rely on not revealing too much about the plot. One notable exception to the secrecy involves a scene that earned the film an R-rating in the U.S. for graphic nudity. Due to censorship laws in the Middle East, that specific scene will be cut for releases in those regions.
