The new HBO documentary “Money Electric: The Bitcoin Mystery” claims to have identified the creator of bitcoin, Satoshi Nakamoto. The film names bitcoin core developer Peter Todd as the founder of bitcoin in 2009, but Todd has denied being Satoshi Nakamoto. Todd accused the film of being irresponsible and putting his life in danger. Despite Todd’s denial, the director, Cullen Hoback, stands by his documentary’s conclusion and believes Todd had the opportunity to explain himself.
Speculation surrounding the identity of Satoshi Nakamoto, the anonymous creator of bitcoin, has led to numerous theories over the years. Hoback spent years tracking down various theories before settling on Todd as his primary suspect. The evidence presented in the documentary includes a 2010 bitcoin message board post from Todd that Hoback believes was written by Satoshi Nakamoto. This mystery has intrigued many due to the billions of dollars worth of bitcoin supposedly under Nakamoto’s control.
Director Hoback has a knack for solving internet mysteries, having previously been involved in unmasking QAnon. In an interview with CNN prior to Todd’s denial, Hoback discussed his confidence in his theory and why he believes it is important to unravel the mystery of Satoshi Nakamoto. The identity of the bitcoin creator is significant given the cryptocurrency’s increasing integration into the financial system and the large amount of bitcoin potentially controlled by Nakamoto.
Hoback defended his theory and the evidence presented in the documentary, expressing confidence in the case made in the film. Despite the lack of definitive proof, he believes that the audience’s interpretation of the evidence is crucial. The documentary confronts Todd about the forum post from 2010, which he denies was meant to be written by Satoshi. However, Hoback finds Todd’s reaction to the evidence to be revealing and believes it speaks volumes.
The film features a dramatic confrontation with Todd, where he is questioned about his potential role as Satoshi Nakamoto. Hoback explains his psychological analysis of individuals who harbor significant secrets and the motivations behind revealing such secrets. He believes Todd may have agreed to be interviewed as a way to continue concealing his true identity. The evidence presented in the film challenges Todd, whose reactions are seen as crucial to understanding the truth.
Despite Todd’s denial and criticism of the evidence presented in the film, Hoback remains steadfast in his theory. He emphasizes that everything included in the documentary is based on factual evidence and interviews. In response to Todd’s denial, Hoback suggests that Todd watch the film before making comments and reflects on his earlier implication of Adam Back as Satoshi Nakamoto. The mystery of Satoshi Nakamoto’s identity continues to captivate the world, and Hoback’s documentary sheds light on one potential theory.
