The Panama Papers – Documentary

Prepare to be riveted by *The Panama Papers* (2018), a heart-pounding documentary directed by Alex Winter that unveils the largest global corruption scandal ever exposed. This 100-minute techno-thriller drops you into the explosive 2016 leak of 11.5 million documents from Panama’s Mossack Fonseca law firm, revealing how the world’s elite—kings, criminals, presidents, and prime ministers—hid billions in offshore accounts to dodge taxes and launder money. If you’re ready to uncover the dirty secrets of the super-rich, this film will keep you glued to the screen!

The story kicks off when an anonymous whistleblower, “John Doe,” leaks 2.6 terabytes of data to German journalists Bastian and Frederik Obermayer at Süddeutsche Zeitung. What follows is a high-stakes global investigation by over 300 reporters from the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ), risking their lives to expose shell companies used for fraud, tax evasion, and evading sanctions. With electrifying interviews, including Luke Harding and Elijah Wood voicing John Doe, the film reveals jaw-dropping ties to figures like Iceland’s ex-Prime Minister, forced to resign, and connections to Vladimir Putin’s inner circle. Gripping footage captures the danger, as journalists like Daphne Caruana Galizia, later murdered, face deadly threats.

Winter’s masterful storytelling keeps the financial jargon clear, focusing on the human cost of inequality and the courage of those who fought to bring the truth to light. From Panama’s shady law offices to global newsrooms, this Pulitzer Prize-winning story is a wake-up call about unchecked power. Stream it on Peacock, Prime Video, or Apple TV, and get ready to be outraged, inspired, and hooked on a real-world conspiracy that’s stranger than fiction!