The rise and spectacular fall of Mark Karpelès, CEO of the bitcoin digital currency exchange Mt. Gox, is a lesson in how easily the digital universe can be manipulated and how quickly its promises can come crashing down. This engrossing documentary examines Karpelès’ life and career, providing a fascinating look at a cryptic personality. Often hailed as the future of money, bitcoin became a worldwide sensation, and Mt. Gox, launched in 2010, became the world’s biggest bitcoin exchange. But by early 2014, the company reported the loss of 850,000 bitcoins (currently valued at more than $800 million), “seemingly out of nowhere.” Is Karpelès—a Frenchman living in Tokyo—a con artist or victim, clueless or cunning? Directors Vincent Gonon and Xavier Sayanoff interview the impassive Karpelès (on trial in Japan for embezzlement and other charges), Mt. Gox clients, and financial and tech experts, in a riveting attempt to get to the bottom of the scandal.
