Producers sues Amazon over Hollywood Hustler: Glitz, Glam, Scam documentary
A Hollywood producer, Julio Hallivis, has filed a lawsuit against Amazon, Vice Studios, and “Tiger King” producer Rebecca Chaiklin over a hit true-crime documentary titled “Hollywood Hustler: Glitz, Glam, Scam.” The three-part documentary explores the Ponzi scheme orchestrated by convicted fraudster Zach Horwitz, which amounted to $650 million.
Hallivis claims that the documentary falsely portrays him as Horwitz’s accomplice and suggests that he was aware of the fraudulent activities, despite having no involvement in the scheme. The fallout from the documentary has already impacted his career, with a well-known actor withdrawing from a film project he was developing after the series premiered.
The documentary delves into how Horwitz defrauded hundreds of investors through his company, 1inMM Capital, by falsely promising to acquire international film distribution rights for major streaming platforms like Netflix and HBO. Instead, he used the funds to repay earlier investors, buy a multimillion-dollar mansion, charter private jets, and live a lavish lifestyle.
Hallivis argues that the documentary creates a false impression of his involvement in the scheme through selective editing, photographs, and commentary from individuals connected to the case. One particular issue highlighted in the lawsuit is the use of photos showing Hallivis and Horwitz together at the Golden Globes, implying that they were conspiring together.
The producer also takes issue with comments made by attorney Alex Loftus in the documentary, suggesting that Hallivis must have been aware of the fraudulent activities if he spent so much time with Horwitz. Hallivis claims that these statements are defamatory and seeks compensatory, presumed, and punitive damages, as well as the removal of the allegedly defamatory content.
Representatives for Chaiklin, Amazon, and Vice have not yet responded to requests for comment on the lawsuit. Despite the legal battle, “Hollywood Hustler: Glitz, Glam, Scam” remains available for streaming on Amazon.
