A new film titled “Satoshi,” exploring the enigmatic creator of Bitcoin, Satoshi Nakamoto, is poised to begin production in spring 2027. Directed by Jason Zada, known for his work on “The Forest” and “Terrarium,” the film is backed by former NBA champion and tech investor Tristan Thompson. Shooting locations are set to include Saudi Arabia and Los Angeles.
Creative Team and Production Partners
Tristan Thompson, who has garnered media attention as a public figure and for his relationship with Khloé Kardashian, will serve as a producer alongside Rick Dugdale and Dan Petrie Jr. of Enderby Entertainment. “Satoshi” marks one of the initial projects arising from a multi-picture deal between Enderby Entertainment and Saudi Arabia’s Yellow Camel Studios, with plans to film at the state-of-the-art JAX Film Studios in Riyadh.
An Overview of the Film
The film “Satoshi” will delve into the origins of Bitcoin, which emerged in 2008 amid the global financial crisis as an alternative to traditional financial systems. The script will be co-written by Jason Zada and Nate Atkins, based on an original screenplay by Cam Cannon. Zada is also known for his current AI hybrid horror feature “Terrarium.” While AI advancements will be utilized during production, a representative for the film emphasized that traditional filmmaking methods will prevail, stating, “This is a traditional film production, including on-location filming, etc.”
The story follows a troubled FBI agent teaming up with a charismatic defense attorney under federal scrutiny to uncover the identity of Bitcoin’s elusive creator, Satoshi Nakamoto, creating a high-stakes crypto thriller filled with government overreach and personal struggles. “Bitcoin wasn’t born in a boardroom. It was released as open-source code by someone who chose to disappear,” Dugdale remarked, highlighting the film’s intent to portray the authentic narrative of Bitcoin’s inception.
Production Insights and Vision
“We’re not interested in a sanitized version of that story,” Dugdale continued, expressing a commitment to recruit individuals who comprehend the technology, culture, and significance of Bitcoin’s early days. Producer Tristan Thompson reflected on the transformative nature of Bitcoin, stating, “We are entering a new financial era where money moves at the speed of the internet, value flows seamlessly across borders, and entirely new systems of ownership and exchange are emerging.”
Brian D. Evans, founder of BDE Ventures and a notable figure in the Bitcoin community, emphasized the importance of accurately portraying the narrative surrounding Bitcoin. “For years, the traditional media has misunderstood Bitcoin and the people who built it. This film isn’t about unmasking Satoshi. It’s about getting the narrative and story right for the world to finally see,” Evans stated.
Enderby Entertainment’s Background
Established in 2006, Enderby Entertainment has a fruitful history in film production, with notable works including “Blackway,” featuring Anthony Hopkins, and the “Intrigo” trilogy, based on the novels of Håkan Nesser. With the innovative approach and support from the Saudi kingdom, the “Satoshi” team is poised to deliver an authentic and engaging portrayal of Bitcoin’s inception.
Jason Zada is represented by UTA and Dante DeSario at Collage.
