The Clearstream Affair 2015
Distributed by First Run Features, 630 Ninth Avenue, Suite 1213, New York, NY 10036; 212-243-0600
Produced by Christophe Rossignon and Phillip Boëffard
Directed by Larent Sivot
DVD, color,102 min., French, English captions
General Adult
Banking, Crime
Date Entered: 11/22/2016
Reviewed by James Gordon, University at Buffalo LibrariesThis drama is based on the true story of a European forming a Central Counterparty Clearing house known as Clearstream. The movie is told from the point of view of an unbelievably naïve, muckraking, investigative reporter. We see the culmination of 10 years of following leads, investigating, and reporting. There are consequences for the main character who unveils the secrets of very rich organizations that launder and hide money. In the process, we learn how Clearstream, which is still in business, was designed to enrich bankers protecting criminals and tax evaders. While the movie has the feel of a documentary, it is a well-researched dramatic re-creation of actual events.
Students in courses dealing with international finance and banking, crime syndicates, and news reporting will find this movie worth watching. A good assignment might be for students to learn how Clearstream currently operates and learn whether or not the company has changed its ways.