YOU WERE MY FIRST BOYFRIEND (2023, doc)

November 9, 2023

Greetings again from the darkness. Goodness, this review has been so difficult to write. Not because of anything wrong with how this documentary was made or filmed – in fact, from a technical standpoint, it is very well done. Rather it was due to my personal opinions and bias, which were what I had to fight against while watching.

Filmmaker Cecilia Aldarando makes the decision to relive her 1990’s adolescence, and to film the proceedings. The tagline reads, “She’s doing high school again”, yet it’s really more than that. This plays like a deep therapy project centered around her admission that she didn’t fit in, and to this day remains scarred by memories of PE class, crushes on boys, school bullies, and prom night. Ms. Aldarando still carries the anxiety of not being admitted to the “in” group of girls from whom she so desperately wanted acceptance.

Timed to coordinate with her high school reunion at the Country Club in Winter Park, Florida, there is actually very little footage shown from the event. Instead, much of the time is spent on reenactments designed to recreate painful and vivid memories. Cecilia also meets face-to-face with her high school crush, Joel, who barely remembers her and had no idea that she was silently pining for him. She even reads him a poem from her 1994 journal, making the encounter that much more awkward.

Bad memories are a fact of life after high school, and most of us learn to live with these and move on. Cecilia Aldarando needs closure, and one of those horrific memories is recreated by selecting young actors to help re-live a night at camp where, Jo Anne, the one girl that was treated worse than her, was humiliated by the same group of girls Cecilia so wanted to be like. Making this segment more impactful is that she had tracked down the adult Jo Anne to provide input and observe. It’s a tough scene for us to watch, and especially tough for Jo Anne.

Cecilia even includes her real-life partner, Gabe, as well as her older sister in reenactments, some of which work better than others. The Tori Amos video segment seemed to drag on longer than it should have, and the “My So Called Life” piece was a bit creepy. Cecilia’s long ago best friend Caroline is discussed frequently, and it’s clear that Cecilia views her own failures as a friend as a critical element in telling her story. This is likely the most revealing aspect of the process for the director.

“Hating” one’s self during the teenage years is not uncommon. What we hope is uncommon is the need two decades later to address the misery of those years. Cecilia’s sister asks the question that needs to be asked: why does she give the past so much power? The film was co-directed and edited by Sarah Enid Hagey, which was necessary due to Cecilia being on screen for most of the film. It is interesting to note the role movies played in childhood, and how so many of her crushes were directly from period pieces (aka unattainable). Home movies are included here as well, and Cecilia admits the desire and need to exorcise those adolescent demons. We are also left questioning the accuracy of those long-ago memories, which here are explained as bad memories containing specific details, while good memories are a montage of the times. Here’s hoping most of us dwell on the montages.

Available on HBO beginning November 8, 2023, and streaming on Max soon after.

WATCH THE TRAILER

2 Comments | Documentary | Tagged: , | Permalink
Posted by David Ferguson

IN THE COURT OF THE CRIMSON KING: KING CRIMSON AT 50 (2023, doc)

November 3, 2023

Greetings again from the darkness. King Crimson was founded in 1969 and to this day, no one can properly describe their music. Even co-founder and band leader Robert Fripp avoids labeling the music and instead states, “King Crimson is a way of doing things”. Documentarian Toby Amies takes on the challenge of examining the band after 50 years.

While most associate guitarist Fripp as being the face of the band, he himself claims that it’s an ensemble and always has been. But then he also describes the years 1969 through 2013 as “wretched”, and that only with this most recent iteration has he found satisfaction. At a minimum, Fripp is a perfectionist, and it’s likely he is also a tortured genius who constantly strives for different, more, and better. He makes for a frustrating interview, and director Armies shows him mostly in various short clips, while letting current and former band members offer their opinions.

Co-founder Ian McDonald’s zoom interview is the most touching. Taking place shortly before McDonald’s passing in 2022, he breaks down and says, “I’m sorry Robert”, for leaving Fripp and King Crimson after only a year. Obviously, there was some bad blood between the two men, even after so many years. McDonald went on to co-found the band Foreigner in the 1970’s before taking on a solo career. Fripp remained with King Crimson and pursued his idea of what a band should be.

Former King Crimson bassist Trey Gunn explained being in the band was like “a low-grade infection”, while current drummer/keyboardist Bill Rieflin thrived with the band. Rieflin was performing with Stage four colon cancer and countless other health issues, yet viewed making music as what he was meant to do, right up until his passing during filming of this documentary. Numerous other former members were interviewed, and the comments range from annoyance to reverence. Current singer/guitarist Jakko is cautious about what he says so as not to cross Fripp. He cracks, “you’re irreplaceable … like the last bloke.”

It’s a unique band playing unique music – a style where each world class musician plays their part based on what fellow band members (usually 8 including 3 drummers) are playing. The result is often a peak experience for the audience, even for those who have attended many shows over the years. There is an interesting segment featuring a nun who is also a devoted fan of the band. She compares it to religion, and between the immersive music and Fripp’s commentary, we can’t help but put this in terms of philosophy, psychology, religion, and even a cult-like atmosphere. Always impeccably dressed like a British gentleman, Fripp’s obsessive discipline and demanding ways leave us with a better feel for the band, while being no closer to offering a label of description. This is not your parents’ music documentary … even if it happens to be your parents’ favorite band.

In theaters November 3, 2023 and VOD beginning December 1, 2023

WATCH THE TRAILER

1 Comment | Documentary | Tagged: , | Permalink
Posted by David Ferguson

THE MISSION (2023, doc)

October 27, 2023

Greetings again from the darkness. What is left that no one has done? It’s a question that the most adventurous among us ask themselves. John Chau was certainly an adventurer. He ran marathons, loved hiking through forests, and enjoyed rock and mountain climbing. His dream was to venture onto the North Sentinel Island and introduce Jesus to the island’s sole inhabitants. The Sentinelese are an isolated human community of hunter-gatherers who have made it abundantly clear over the years that they do not welcome outside visitors.

In 2018, when the news report hit that 26-year-old John Chau had been killed while trying to make contact with The Sentinelese, my initial and immediate reaction was to call him an arrogant jerk who probably got what he deserved. Co-directors Amanda McBaine and Jesse Moss, through National Geographic Documentary Films, have brought us more of John Chau’s story so that we (me) can better understand his motivation and how it fits into the historical aspect of missionary work.

McBaine and Moss explore the various stories here, which include: a community of folks living life on their own terms, the overreach of religion, the role of missionaries, a young man wanting to make a difference, and a father-son relationship. Much of John’s story is taken directly from the journal he kept right up until the day he died. The directors also effectively use the letter from John’s father, which is read aloud and displayed through animation. Additionally, there are interviews with John’s friend, an historian, and a long-time missionary. We learn that as a kid, John was attracted to stories such as “Robinson Crusoe” and “Tintin”, as well as drawing inspiration from movies like END OF THE SPEAR. His attraction to adventure began at an early age, and it was the draw of religion that really struck a chord.

As a Chinese-American and evangelical Christian, it is said that he might have believed the indigenous people were waiting for him to bring them The Truth. Whether he believed this or instead simply felt it was his responsibility, speaks to a level of conceit rarely seen outside of religion or politics. What is abundantly clear is that as a disciple of ‘The Great Commission’, John’s radical approach paid little mind or respect to the uncorrupted culture of this isolated tribe. This is why, as his long-time friend describes, he had to pay pirates to take him uninvited to the island to talk about Jesus. It’s a conceit that will not compute for me, regardless of his religious beliefs.

North Sentinel Island is part of the Andaman Islands (where the legend of King Kong took place) and it is protected by the government of India. John Chau’s “Plan” even included a section detailing the illegality of his mission. The filmmakers structure the film with the first hour being mostly background and setup, while the final 45 minutes dig into John’s trip to the island – a trip best described in the movie as ‘idealism masquerading as God’s will.’ John’s father carried a burden of parental guilt, which is understandable; however, most of this boils down to John’s own ignorance and conceit. As thorough as the research is, and as interesting as the history is, none of it has changed my mind about John Chau.

Opens October 27, 2023 in select theaters

WATCH THE TRAILER

2 Comments | Documentary | Tagged: , | Permalink
Posted by David Ferguson

PUPPY LOVE (2023, doc)

October 23, 2023

Greetings again from the darkness. “What a good boy!” That’s something every (boy) dog owner has said a thousand times … but probably not like what we see here. Director Gail Gilbert brings us a story that will tear at the heartstrings of every pet owner, and likely any viewer with a heartstring to tear. An Illinois breeder named Cindy welcomed what was to be her final litter of pure-bred Labrador Retrievers. The pups were beautiful, and everything was fine … right up until it wasn’t.

After only a few weeks, the male pups were stricken with paralysis of their legs and voice. The affliction had no effect on the two female pups, and whatever caused it was a mystery. A local veterinarian could only guess whether it was related to the vaccinations, a virus, a parasite, genetics, or some other cause. The recommendation was euthanasia. But Cindy was not ready to give up. She took back the pups and was joined by a trainer and some other gold-hearted animal lovers. Rather than put them down, these women worked with the pups daily. Therapy and massages and nutrition became standard daily rituals. Their courage and determination was remarkable since no one could even tell them what was wrong and whether their efforts stood any chance of helping the pups.

The reality was, many people questioned why they would work so hard for “defective” dogs. But then around 10 weeks, most of the pups began showing signs of improvement. The daily feedings by syringe, and then bottle, began to take on a more normal feeding process. And the pups’ legs began to get stronger – some were even able to stand, if a bit wobbly. It was like watching a slow miracle occur … a miracle that required an enormous amount of work and attention and love.

At times, this had the look of a M*A*S*H unit, minus the surgery. It’s truly shocking to see the pups go from little furry blobs sunning in the grass to what we see by the end of the film. In fact, the saddest part of the film comes not from the pups, but rather from people. Of course, anyone watching the film will fall for these pups, but we also have full admiration for those who used their optimistic and determined approach to make a difference. It’s been said that ‘love cures all things”, and while “all things” may be a stretch, certainly these puppies are beneficiaries.

Available On Demand and on digital platforms beginning October 24, 2023

WATCH THE TRAILER

1 Comment | Documentary | Tagged: | Permalink
Posted by David Ferguson

THE PIGEON TUNNEL (2023, doc)

October 20, 2023

Greetings again from the darkness. When John le Carre passed away in 2020 at the age of 80, conversations and debates raged about the best spy novelists, and what stood out was, no matter how many writers were mentioned – Ian Fleming, Tom Clancey, Robert Ludlum, Ken Follett – everyone’s list included le Carre. Oscar winning documentarian Errol Morris (THE FOG OF WAR, 2003) has taken le Carre’s final and most personal interview and adorned it with film clips, rare archival footage, and some dramatic effects to create a lasting tribute to a superb writer and a most interesting man.

John le Carre was a former member of MI5 (British Security Service) and MI6 (British Intelligence Service), only at the time he was David Cornwell. Adapting his now world-famous nom de plume, le Carre became a spy who wrote spy novels. Really good spy novels. Not only were many of these to become bestsellers, many were also primed to be adapted to a film version or TV series. A few of his best-known novels include: “The Spy Who Came in From the Cold”, “Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy”, “The Night Manager”, “The Constant Gardener”, and “A Perfect Spy.” His recurring character George Smiley was always a favorite, and was played expertly by two Oscar winners, Sir Alec Guiness and Gary Oldman.

For anyone who hasn’t read le Carre’s 2016 autobiography, “The Pigeon Tunnel: Stories from My Life”, Morris is kind enough to include the explanation of the title. “The Pigeon Tunnel” was the working title le Carre used for many of his books while in progress, and we do get to hear the author detail how that particular phrase happened to stick. In fact, the real treasure here is in hearing le Carre’s distinctive voice spin the yarn on so many stories. Whether writing or speaking, he was a fantastic storyteller, mesmerizing the readers and listeners.

With his storytelling-on-the-fly approach, le Carre recalls his childhood and life with a seamless blend of experience, memory, and imagination … often with the Cold War as a backdrop. We aren’t always sure where the blurred line between fact and embellishment falls, but we do know we are along for the ride. When John le Carre speaks of his fascination with “betrayal”, we can’t help but wish he were still around to provide commentary on this modern world.

Streaming globally on AppleTV+ beginning October 20, 2023

WATCH THE TRAILER

1 Comment | Documentary | Tagged: | Permalink
Posted by David Ferguson

JOAN BAEZ I AM A NOISE (2023, doc)

October 5, 2023

Greetings again from the darkness. The often-barefooted Joan Baez absolutely built a legacy of activism and social consciousness through the civil rights movement, Vietnam protests, prison reform, environmental issues, and other causes, making her easy to admire. Her music made her rich and famous, and has left a mark and influenced many others This documentary was initially intended to cover her farewell tour in 2018 at age 78, and while it is structured around that tour, the three co-directors, Miri Navasky, Maeve O’Boyle, and Karen O’Connor, have ended up with an intimate look that covers more of Joan Baez the person, than Joan Baez the talented singer.

The film opens with a clip of a very young Joan performing. This is fitting because at age 18 she became an overnight sensation thanks to the Newport Festival and the cover of Time Magazine. Ms. Baez provides a great deal of personal insight for the film, and speaks to her three lives: a public life, a private life, and a secret life. The public life is Joan Baez the singer and activist. The private life is Joan’s relationship with her sisters, Pauline and Mimi, and her secrets – too many of which are shared here – involve the therapy she has been involved with since she was 16 years old.

By ‘too much’, I am referring to the prolonged and detailed discussions about her mental illness, depression, and therapy sessions. In fact, the final product here feels like a therapy session for Joan. It’s one thing to share the struggles in hopes that you can inspire others to get the help they need, but this one goes a step too far. Joan discusses the childhood abuse she and her sister “may” have suffered at the hands of her father. Mind you, she doesn’t remember anything specific, but her therapist has made this scenario likely, so it has become a reality for Joan. While I fully support therapy, the idea of putting this on the table during this documentary is inexcusable to me.

Other segments are more befitting of the platform as Joan admits she was a bit lost after Vietnam because she no longer had a cause to support. Of course, the next few decades provided many opportunities for her, but the ‘need a cause’ comments provide insight into her persona … as does the notebook she wrote at age 13 entitled, “What I Believe” …an early indication that her observation skills were special. Hearing her speak of how Bob Dylan broke her heart is fascinating, especially as we note the painted portrait of him hanging over her piano – and the fact that she speaks of him frequently. She did meet her husband, journalist David Harris, while both were in jail, which has made for a fun story over the years, and we learn that their son Gabriel accompanied her on the final tour.

Somehow the filmmakers never mention Joan’s performance at Woodstock, but we do get a clip of her presence at Martin Luther King’s “Freedom” speech, and learn she was heavy into quaaludes for eight years. She discusses how being of half-Mexican descent impacted her life, and she’s credited with leading the Peace Movement. The only issue with any of this is how deeply the film dives inside her head. Bringing her depression and mental struggles to the forefront is a valuable service, but dragging a deceased parent into this affects how we view Joan Baez and the film. Fare thee well, Joan. Fare thee well.

Opens in NYC theaters on October 6, 2023, and then other markets on October 13.

WATCH THE TRAILER

3 Comments | Documentary | Tagged: , , , | Permalink
Posted by David Ferguson

CATS OF MALTA (2023, doc)

October 5, 2023

Greetings again from the darkness. Dog people vs cat people. There have been scientific studies on the personality of those who fall on one side or the other. Surprisingly, this dog lover agreed to review a cat movie … an agreement based on the assurance that all relevant cats would be on screen and not in my lap. Australian director Sarah Jayne Portelli opens with some spectacular aerial shots of Malta, an island (archipelago) in the Mediterranean Sea dating back to 5900 B.C. She gives us a brief overview of its history, and then discloses that she lived on Malta for four years and was intrigued by the cats.

She informs us that Malta has a population of 450,000 people and approximately 100,000 stray cats. The director uses a vignette approach over the 58-minute runtime to introduce us to various citizens who share their personal cat stories. We hear the tale of a woman who rescued an injured cat that ultimately had a leg amputated. The three-legged cat still roams the streets, though it hasn’t forgiven the woman for messing up the medications. We are told that cats will sit patiently at the door of a café staring non-stop at a particular diner who is expected to provide table scraps upon finishing. A newly constructed Hilton property forced the relocation of a long-time cat village, and we meet the artist chosen to renovate the massive cat statue atop a building along the shore. Bob the large ginger street cat is shown, as is Isaac, a local boy who started feeding the cats when he was eleven years old.

All of these cats (at least the ones in the film) have been given names and are part of the community. The cats have individual personalities and quirks … some are more comfortable with humans than others; something that’s often dependent on whether early abuse or hardship was overcome. A case is made for the government to get involved with animal NGO’s and providing food, which most of the volunteer feeders pay for themselves at this time. There is simply no denying the fascinating cat culture of Malta, and the three benefits: tourism, joy to locals, and mental health therapy. Even this dog person must begrudgingly agree.

On Digital beginning October 3, 2023

WATCH THE TRAILER

3 Comments | Documentary | Tagged: | Permalink
Posted by David Ferguson

CLERK (2023, doc)

September 26, 2023

Greetings again from the darkness. Despite his 30-year career and devotion to independent cinema, none of writer-director Kevin Smith’s films have ever really clicked with me. Because of this, I was hesitant to review Malcolm Ingram’s documentary on the filmmaker whose rabid fan base adores him. What a pleasure (and relief) to report that it turns out Kevin Smith is much more likable and relatable than his movies, at least for me.

Ingram includes the family of the man from New Jersey, and we hear from Smith’s mother, his brother, and his daughter. Smith explains that it was his father who had the most influence, regularly taking him to the theater as a youngster. Kicking things off is a 1992 video Smith recorded for his parents prior to taking off for film school. Despite his ultimately dropping out of school so he could make movies, the brief clip shows respect and appreciation for parents who were so supportive.

For most of two hours, we proceed chronologically through Kevin Smith’s life and career, and yes, Ingram has rounded up the usual suspects: Jason Mewes, Scott Mosier (Mr Get-it-done), Joey Lauren Adams, Betty Aberlin, Walter Flanagan, Brian O’Halloran, and others in this group (or is it troupe?) of regulars. Adding glitz to the proceedings are interviews with Stan Lee, Penn Jillette, Richard Linklater, and Jason Reitman, reinforcing Smith’s connection to mainstream Hollywood, as well as his beloved comic book community.

Of course, it was the Sundance Film Festival in 1994 when everything changed for Kevin Smith. His debut feature film, CLERKS, was warmly received, and he was aptly described as a blend of Howard Stern and David Mamet. ‘Warmly received’ is a bit of an understatement, as Smith basically exploded onto the scene as the next big filmmaker to watch. As has happened so often to others, he discovered that building on that initial success is a bit more complicated.

Smith’s body of work includes MALLRATS (1995), CHASING AMY (1997), DOGMA (1999), JAY AND SILENT BOB STRIKE BACK (2001), JERSEY GIRL (2004), CLERKS II (2006), ZACH AND MIRI MAKE A PORNO (2008), and RED STATE (2011). For many, that would be a wrap on a solid career, however, Smith continues to be involved with TV series and feature films, and in a twist, he evolved into a highly sought after public speaker via a couple of routes: “An Evening with Kevin Smith” and Smodcast, his podcast where no topic is really off limits.

We pick up so many surprising tidbits during this film. Smith has always been a prolific writer, leaving many in awe of his talent. He was annoyed that his job at the video store turned into far more time and responsibility at the adjacent Quick Stop Convenience Store (yes that one). Seth Rogen turned him onto weed … OK, so that one is not so surprising. Smith speaks to his regret upon learning the truth about Harvey Weinstein, whose Miramax backed so many of his projects. A 2018 heart attack didn’t kill him, yet did change him. We also hear from his actor-daughter Harley Quinn Smith who clearly admires her dad, and avoids any fashion commentary on his ever-present hockey sweaters. Kevin Smith is a guy who has found many ways to connect with fans (and make new ones), making him a guy who would never say, “I’m not even supposed to be here today.” Malcolm Ingram has effectively balanced a career retrospective with a character study, and it turns out the character is pretty cool.

Available September 26, 2023 on www.MercantileInstinct.com

WATCH THE TRAILER

1 Comment | Documentary | Tagged: , | Permalink
Posted by David Ferguson

CARLOS (2023, doc)

September 22, 2023

Greetings again from the darkness. Although I was too young to attend Woodstock in 1969, I vividly recall the first time I saw the 1970 concert film, as I was stunned by the energetic performances, the dedicated attendees, and the mass of people making the best of rain, drugs, and music. By this time, I was attuned to Hendrix, The Who, Joplin, and most of the others, but the band that shook me was Santana. Familiar with only one song, “Evil Ways”, off their debut album, I was mesmerized by the pure force of their live “Soul Sacrifice” performance – the relentless drumming of Michael Shrieve (20 years old) and the blazing guitar work from band leader Carlos Santana (a 22-year-old).

With this documentary, Rudy Valdez (THE SENTENCE, 2018), delivers so much more than the typical musician biography. Sure, we get the basic background information, but thanks to chats with Carlos Santana himself, we learn more about the man and how his being is meshed with the music. Born in Mexico, Carlos’ dad played in a mariachi band and taught him to play the violin. The unusual route to rock and roll stardom began when Carlos switched to guitar and the family moved to San Francisco. His blending of Latin Jazz and Blues with rock and roll delivered a sound we had not previously heard. Carlos’ began playing regular gigs at the Fillmore West, and things kicked into gear once promoter/producer Bill Graham got involved.

Carlos formed a band and Graham instituted ‘festival training’ culminating in the live performance at Woodstock. Carlos tells an incredible story about Jerry Garcia (of The Grateful Dead) handing him some drugs, and the next thing Carlos knew, the band was called on stage in the midst of his acid trip. If you’ve seen the movie, the facial expressions will make complete sense once Carlos recalls what he was seeing with that trusty guitar in his hands. It’s one of the best rock stories you’ll hear. A week after Woodstock, Santana’s debut album was released by Clive Davis at Columbia Records.

The family background is interesting enough, but the real value here is in the self-reflection from Carlos. Apparently, the interview was conducted over a period of time, so we see variations and moods from the man with magic music. Carlos even discusses his time as a disciple of spiritual guru Sri Chinmoy … including haircut, white suits, and self-discovery. Carlos confesses how once “Smooth”, recorded in 1999 with Rob Thomas of Matchbox Twenty, became a monster hit, he finally felt validated.

Not many musicians get to have a professional career that spans more than fifty years … or have a wife who is a skilled drummer … or have a ‘slithering snake’ story with a spot in rock lore. But Carlos Santana, now 76 years old, has all of that, and has recently been battling a public relations nightmare after a statement he made regarding the trans community. As for the documentary, the interviews and archival footage and photos provide a nice look at the man behind the music.

Opening in select theaters on September 23, 2023 and going wide on September 29.

WATCH THE TRAILER

1 Comment | Documentary | Tagged: , | Permalink
Posted by David Ferguson

MAN ON THE RUN (2023, doc)

September 22, 2023

Greetings again from the darkness. Remember that time you paid pop star Brittany Spears one million dollars to jump out of a birthday cake at your party? Or the times you paid huge appearance fees to celebrities like Leonardo DiCaprio, Jamie Foxx, and Paris Hilton to hang around your lavish parties? If not, then you’re no Jho Low. And thank goodness for that. Jho Low was in cahoots with then Prime Minister Najib Razak to siphon billions from a fund designed to assist Malaysian citizens. Their fund was called 1MDB (1 Malaysian Development Berhad) and thanks to researchers and whistleblowers, this film from Cassius Michael Kim lays out a textbook case of corruption, fraud, and greed.

The FBI have called this the largest kleptocracy case to date. Kleptocracy is defined as corrupt government officials embezzling funds for personal gain. And yes, that is the where the billions of dollars come in, however, in this day and age, celebrities must be involved for the general public to much care. To satisfy these viewers, the montage of associated celebrities is impressive, and the use of these funds to finance Martin Scorsese’s Oscar nominated film, THE WOLF OF WALL STREET (2014), may provide the perfect example of irony. Government corruption funding a film highlighting Wall Street corruption. To top it off, that scenario is then used as the basis for a documentary focused on the two key players behind this conspiracy of fraudulent activity.

In addition to Jho Low, Prime Minister Najib Razak, and the celebs, the story also involves Najib’s wife, the FBI, Goldman Sachs executives, and numerous other folks who got caught up in the web of greed. Wherever there is dirty money being spent, you can be assured there are dirty people involved. Filmmaker Kim allows many to communicate their perspectives and observations on Jho Low, though the reality is that he remains a somewhat mysterious figure. An enigma who, while conspiring with the head of a country, managed to live the high life by spending money bilked from Malaysians.

A 22-carat diamond ended up with the Prime Minister’s wife, and both of them got what they deserved in the end. However, the newest game of “Where’s Waldo?” is now called, “Where’s Jho Low?” He is the titular man on run, while others pay the price … including a country that teetered on financial failure. The director does include an interview with the former Prime Minister, and we do hear from others who are familiar with the case. Unfortunately, none of the celebrities who accepted the fees agreed to appear on camera, either due to shame or fear of self-incrimination. Still, there is plenty of slime on display.

In select theaters beginning September 22, 2023

WATCH THE TRAILER

1 Comment | Documentary | Tagged: | Permalink
Posted by David Ferguson

« Previous Entries
Next Entries »