Ep 1. Nobody's Business

In the premiere episode of POV's tenth season, titled "Nobody's Business," filmmaker and investigative journalist Alan Berliner delves deep into the world of public records. His mission: to explore the vast trove of information that is available to us all, if we only knew where to look.

From birth certificates to property deeds, from court dockets to tax returns, every aspect of our lives is documented in some form or another. But what happens when this information falls into the wrong hands? And what are the consequences of living in a world where our personal data is constantly up for grabs?

Through a series of interviews with experts in the field, as well as people whose lives have been impacted by the release of sensitive information, Berliner examines the complex issues surrounding privacy and public access. He speaks with lawyers and activists who are fighting to protect our rights, as well as individuals who have had their lives turned upside down by a simple Google search.

The episode begins with Berliner introducing himself and his mission: to uncover the secrets behind the public records system. He explains that while many people assume that their personal information is private, it is actually available to anyone who knows where to look. He cites a few examples, such as the fact that anyone can find out your date of birth or your home address simply by checking public records.

Berliner then speaks with a variety of experts who provide more context to the issue. He interviews a lawyer who specializes in privacy law, as well as an investigative journalist who has used public records to uncover corruption and wrongdoing. They both stress the importance of public access to information, but also acknowledge the risks involved.

One of the most fascinating interviews in the episode is with a man who became the victim of doxxing - the act of publicly releasing someone's personal information with malicious intent. He explains how his life was turned upside down when someone released his home address and phone number online, leading to him receiving constant harassment and even death threats. Berliner uses this example to illustrate the very real dangers of living in a world where information is constantly available.

Throughout the episode, Berliner also provides historical context to the public records system. He explains how it was originally created as a way to promote transparency in government, but has since expanded to encompass every aspect of our lives. He also notes that the rise of the internet has made it easier than ever for people to access our personal information.

By the end of the episode, Berliner has provided a nuanced perspective on the issue of public records. He acknowledges the importance of public access to information, but also stresses the need for privacy protections. He encourages viewers to think critically about the types of information they share online, and to be aware of the potential risks involved.

Overall, "Nobody's Business" is a thought-provoking and informative exploration of a complex issue. While it may not offer any easy answers, it provides a rich and nuanced understanding of the various perspectives involved. It is a strong start to POV's tenth season, and sets a high bar for the episodes to come.