A new documentary about Elon Musk is bringing renewed attention to some deeply personal chapters of his life, with two women who knew him closely sharing accounts that have drawn widespread interest. Musk, directed by Alex Gibney, premiered at the Venice Film Festival on September 8 and examines Musk’s relationships, family life and business career. His first wife, Justine Musk, speaks about their marriage and recalls painful moments from their years together. She also addresses the death of their first son, Nevada, who died at 10 weeks old from sudden infant death syndrome in 2002. Justine disputes one detail from Musk’s later public account, saying she was the parent holding their son during his final moments. More than two decades later, her decision to share her version offers a deeply personal perspective on a day that profoundly affected their family.

The documentary also features Ashley St. Clair, who discusses her relationship with Musk and claims she was presented with a proposed non-disclosure agreement worth millions of dollars. St. Clair says she ultimately chose not to sign it, while Musk strongly denies that such an offer was ever made and says she has previously made false claims. The film also explores Musk’s relationships with his children and his wider public influence, making it a broad portrait rather than simply a story about his private life. Musk has criticized the documentary and its director, describing the project as a “hit piece” and arguing that some interview subjects have grievances against him. With the film scheduled for a U.S. theatrical release in October, the contrasting accounts are likely to keep the conversation surrounding Musk’s personal life and public image going.