The Onion‘s Bold Move: A Mockumentary on Epstein Captivates Indie Theaters
In a striking blend of satire and social commentary, The Onion has made waves with its latest project, “Jeffrey Epstein: Bad Pedophile.” This 20-minute mockumentary, which recently enjoyed a limited theatrical run across more than 25 independent theaters in the United States, has sparked conversations about the evolving landscape of film distribution and the role of satire in contemporary discourse.
A Unique Theatrical Experience
The Onion, known for its sharp wit and satirical take on current events, screened the mockumentary alongside its classic series “Sex House” in various cities, from Birmingham, Alabama, to Duluth, Minnesota. The event, dubbed a “Historic Cinematic Night of Film at the Movies,” not only showcased the film but also highlighted the growing trend of independent theaters collaborating directly with content creators to bypass traditional distribution channels.
The success of this one-night-only event underscores a significant shift in how films can reach audiences. As reported by IndieWire, the initiative reflects a broader trend where creators are increasingly taking control of their distribution, allowing for more diverse and unconventional projects to find their way to the screen.
The Genesis of the Mockumentary
The Onion team recognized the enduring public interest in the Epstein saga and decided to channel their resources into creating a mockumentary that would be both ambitious and humorous. According to Onion CEO Ben Collins, the script came together rapidly, with the writers crafting a narrative that was both absurd and reflective of the real-world implications of Epstein’s actions. Collins recounted a moment in the writers’ room when he saw a line in the outline that read, “He went to heaven” with a frowny face, signaling the film’s unique blend of humor and dark subject matter.
Initially, the project had secured a major distributor, but the tragic shooting of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk led the distributor to withdraw, citing concerns over public perception. Collins noted the irony of the situation, stating, “It’s weird that you would see the name ‘Jeffrey Epstein’ and immediately associate it with the president and all of his friends.”
A New Distribution Model
Undeterred, The Onion’s Chief Marketing Officer, Leila Brillson, spearheaded efforts to partner with independent theaters for screenings. This move not only allowed the film to reach audiences but also fostered relationships with theaters that have struggled in recent years. Brillson emphasized the excitement of creating a new distribution pipeline, stating, “We created our own relationships with these theaters that we were able to pump this out without relying on anyone except the technology that exists to send this to each other.”
The process was straightforward: independent theaters could request the Digital Cinema Package (DCP) by emailing The Onion directly. The response was overwhelming, with requests pouring in from across the globe within 24 hours. Collins remarked on the unexpected enthusiasm, noting, “We’re letting [the indie theaters] keep the gate. We’re letting them donate it to charity, do whatever they want to do with it.”
A Cultural Moment
The screenings of “Jeffrey Epstein: Bad Pedophile” have resonated with audiences, providing a sense of community and shared experience in a time when many feel disconnected. Brillson articulated the importance of offering a cathartic experience, stating, “Providing that kind of catharsis is so important to our readers and our audience.” The film has become a rallying point, allowing viewers to come together and engage with the material in a meaningful way.
The Onion’s motto, “Tu stultus es” (roughly translating to “You are stupid”), serves as a reminder of the publication’s self-aware humor. However, both Collins and Brillson argue that the success of this project demonstrates that audiences are hungry for content that resonates with their values rather than conforming to mainstream expectations. Brillson noted, “Actually having some values works,” emphasizing the importance of supporting independent theaters and fostering genuine connections with audiences.
The Future of Independent Film
The success of “Jeffrey Epstein: Bad Pedophile” raises questions about the future of independent film and the potential for creators to bypass traditional distribution models. As Collins pointed out, the current landscape is shifting, with many creators finding ways to connect directly with their audiences. He remarked, “Actual people will drive out of their way, will beg their theaters to air something this stupid. That’s where the actual populace is.”
This trend reflects a broader cultural shift, where audiences are increasingly seeking out content that challenges the status quo. The Onion’s mockumentary serves as a case study in how satire can be a powerful tool for social commentary, allowing creators to engage with complex issues in a way that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Conclusion
“Jeffrey Epstein: Bad Pedophile” is more than just a mockumentary; it represents a significant moment in the evolution of film distribution and audience engagement. By leveraging the power of independent theaters and embracing a direct-to-audience model, The Onion has not only created a successful project but has also opened the door for future collaborations that prioritize creativity and community. As the landscape of film continues to evolve, projects like this remind us of the importance of satire in sparking dialogue and fostering connections in an increasingly fragmented world.
