At the Toronto Film Festival’s opening night, Eddie Huang took the stage with a dual purpose: to critique and celebrate Vice. Huang, who previously hosted “Huang’s World” for the now-bankrupt media company, premiered his new documentary, “Vice Is Broke.”
This film reflects both admiration for Vice’s rebellious and groundbreaking journalism, as well as criticism of the greed and ethical lapses that led to its financial collapse. Huang mentioned that Vice, or what remains of it, is not pleased with the documentary, especially after he managed to get a non-disclosure agreement he signed waived in exchange for unpaid residuals.
During a Q&A session after the film’s screening at TIFF Lightbox Cinema, Huang revealed that Vice’s legal team is actively contesting the documentary. He also noted that Shane Smith, Vice’s co-founder known for his controversial persona, declined Huang’s request for an interview.
Huang expressed his disapproval of Smith’s leadership and his conduct following Vice’s bankruptcy and subsequent acquisition by Fortress Investment Group and other investors. Huang criticized Smith for threatening legal action and sending cease-and-desist letters, labeling him a coward for abandoning his colleagues.
Huang invested $380,000 of his own money into the film, which highlights Vice’s origins as an edgy magazine and its growth into an influential media entity. Despite this, Huang criticized Vice’s tendency to focus on conflict and violence rather than the positive aspects of the regions it covered.
Reflecting on Vice’s downfall, Huang expressed regret over the company’s trajectory, lamenting the loss of a platform that once empowered young creators. The documentary also scrutinizes Gavin McInnes, another co-founder, exploring his role in shaping Vice’s provocative style and the influence of his far-right views.
McInnes, who left Vice in 2008 to form the Proud Boys, participated in the film, defending free speech while making controversial statements. Huang questioned the impact of McInnes’ approach, pondering the balance between freedom of expression and its potential harm.