In 2016, Nico Ballesteros, a high school student from Orange County, began filming Kanye West, capturing over 3,000 hours of footage that chronicles the rapper’s creative peaks, personal struggles, and public controversies. The resulting documentary, “In Whose Name?,” offers an unfiltered look at West’s life without his direct input.
Ballesteros, now 26, followed West, who now goes by Ye, across continents, recording moments that included a meeting with President Trump at the White House, creative sessions, and personal conflicts. The documentary, set to release on September 19, 2025, presents an unvarnished portrayal of Ye’s tumultuous journey, including his public meltdowns and controversial statements.
Ye’s career faced significant setbacks, including the loss of corporate partnerships with Adidas and GAP, following his controversial remarks and actions. Despite these challenges, Ballesteros emphasizes that the film is not a takedown but a deep exploration of an American figure. Ye has no creative or financial stake in the film but has acknowledged its depth, comparing it to an out-of-body experience.
The documentary arrives amidst ongoing discussions about Ye’s influence and controversies, including his antisemitic remarks and public outbursts. Ballesteros, who was never on Ye’s payroll, retained ownership of the footage, a remarkable feat given Ye’s usual control over his image.
Ballesteros’ journey began with a fascination for storytelling and filmmaking, leading him to embed himself in Ye’s world. His documentary aims to provide a nuanced view of Ye, capturing both his creative genius and personal struggles.
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