Watch Dark Money

Dark Money is a captivating documentary film from the year 2018 that delves into the issue of dark money being used to fund political campaigns in the United States. The film is directed by Kimberly Reed and is set in Montana, where Senator Jon Tester is running for re-election. The movie starts with the introduction of a local journalist named John S. Adams, who is investigating the impact of the 2010 Supreme Court decision in the Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission case. This decision allowed corporations, unions, and other special interest groups to spend unlimited amounts of money on political campaigns.

Adams uncovers a complex web of dark money that is being funneled into Montana to support the election of conservative candidates. The documentary then shows how this dark money is affecting the political landscape in Montana, and how it is undermining the principles of democracy.

The film features interviews with a wide range of people, including Jon Tester himself, as well as Debra Bonogofsky, a local farmer and activist, and Jim Peterson, a former Montana State Senator. These individuals provide powerful insights into the negative impact of dark money on their communities, and how it is influencing the political decisions being made in their state.

Throughout the movie, the audience is treated to a detailed exploration of the sources of dark money, including interviews with executives from the Koch Brothers' network of conservative organizations. The film highlights how these groups are able to use their vast wealth to manipulate the political system, and how this is having a detrimental impact on American democracy.

The film also explores the complex legal landscape surrounding dark money, including the Supreme Court cases that have shaped the current laws around campaign finance. It highlights the role of organizations such as the Federal Election Commission in monitoring these laws, and how the absence of effective regulation is allowing dark money to flourish.

One of the most compelling aspects of Dark Money is its focus on the local impact of this issue. The film shows how the influx of dark money is affecting the lives of everyday Americans, from the threat of environmental destruction to the loss of vital healthcare services. The story of Debra Bonogofsky, whose life is upended by a mining company with ties to dark money, is particularly powerful.

Overall, Dark Money is a gripping and informative documentary that shines a light on an issue that is often overlooked in American politics. By exploring the complex web of dark money and its impact on local communities, the film provides a compelling case for much-needed reform of the campaign finance system. It is a must-watch for anyone who cares about the future of democracy in America.

Dark Money is a 2018 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 39 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.1 and a MetaScore of 72.