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4h ago

Julian Assange Makes Public Return at Cannes with Documentary Premiere

The Six Billion Dollar Man reframes Assange's legacy, featuring new revelations and unseen footage, as the WikiLeaks founder considers renewed political engagement.

WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange, his wife Stella Assange, and the team of the documentary film "The Six Billion Dollar Man" presented as part of Special Screenings, pose on the red carpet during arrivals for the screening of the film "The History of Sound" in competition at the 78th Cannes Film Festival in Cannes, France, May 21, 2025. REUTERS/Benoit Tessier
WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange, his wife Stella Assange, and the team of the documentary film "The Six Billion Dollar Man" presented as part of Special Screenings pose on the red carpet during arrivals for the screening of the film "The History of Sound" in competition at the 78th Cannes Film Festival in Cannes, France, May 21, 2025. REUTERS/Stephane Mahe
WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange, his wife Stella Assange, and the team of the documentary film "The Six Billion Dollar Man" presented as part of Special Screenings, pose on the red carpet during arrivals for the screening of the film "The History of Sound" in competition at the 78th Cannes Film Festival in Cannes, France, May 21, 2025. REUTERS/Sarah Meyssonnier
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Overview

  • Julian Assange attended the Cannes Film Festival for the premiere of The Six Billion Dollar Man, marking his first major public appearance since his release from prison in June 2024.
  • The documentary, directed by Eugene Jarecki, uses unseen footage and interviews to reassess Assange’s actions and legacy, while challenging past criticisms of WikiLeaks.
  • The film highlights the U.S. government's extensive efforts to prosecute Assange, estimated to have cost $6 billion, and explores the broader implications for press freedom.
  • Assange, who spent 12 years in confinement between the Ecuadorian embassy and a British prison, is reportedly recovering well and considering a return to political activism, according to his wife Stella.
  • The documentary features interviews with figures like Edward Snowden and Rafael Correa, and critiques allegations of WikiLeaks' links to Russian intelligence and the handling of unredacted cables.