Collective (2019 film)

Collective 2019 poster

Collective (Romanian: Colectiv) is a 2019 Romanian documentary film directed by Alexander Nanau. The film follows a team of investigative journalists from the Romanian newspaper Gazeta Sporturilor as they uncover a vast healthcare fraud that enriched moguls and politicians and led to the deaths of innocent citizens. The documentary provides a gripping look at the impact of corruption on society and the power of investigative journalism.

Plot

The film begins with the tragic Colectiv nightclub fire in Bucharest, Romania, which occurred on October 30, 2015. The fire resulted in the deaths of 64 people and left many others injured. The documentary then shifts focus to the aftermath of the fire, particularly the healthcare system's failure to provide adequate care for the burn victims.

Journalists from Gazeta Sporturilor, led by Cătălin Tolontan, start investigating the high number of deaths among the burn victims. They uncover that the disinfectants used in Romanian hospitals were heavily diluted, leading to severe infections and deaths. The investigation reveals a web of corruption involving the healthcare system, pharmaceutical companies, and government officials.

Production

Collective was produced by Alexander Nanau Production in collaboration with HBO Europe and Samsa Film. The film features real-life footage and interviews with journalists, victims, and whistleblowers. The documentary was praised for its raw and unfiltered portrayal of the events and its meticulous investigative approach.

Release and Reception

The film premiered at the 76th Venice International Film Festival on September 4, 2019. It was later released in various countries and received critical acclaim for its powerful storytelling and impactful message. Collective was shortlisted for the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature and the Academy Award for Best International Feature Film at the 93rd Academy Awards.

Impact

Collective had a significant impact on Romanian society and the global community. It brought attention to the issues of corruption and the importance of transparency and accountability in governance. The film also highlighted the crucial role of investigative journalism in uncovering the truth and holding those in power accountable.

Awards and Nominations

• European Film Awards: Best Documentary
• Academy Awards: Nominated for Best Documentary Feature and Best International Feature Film
• Sundance Film Festival: Special Jury Award for Impact for Change

See Also

• Colectiv nightclub fire
• Alexander Nanau
• Gazeta Sporturilor
• Romanian healthcare system
• Investigative journalism

External Links

Collective at IMDb