The Crime of the Century 2021

Overview

The Crime of the Century is a 2021 television documentary series that examines the pharmaceutical industry in the United States. Directed by Alex Gibney, an Emmy and Academy Award winner, the production serves as a searing indictment of Big Pharma. The series explores the responsibility of pharmaceutical companies regarding the manufacturing of synthetic opiates. It further investigates the roles played by political operatives and government regulations in enabling the over-production, reckless distribution, and abuse of these substances. The program suggests that these entities sold the American public a lie while profiting significantly from the crisis. The documentary is categorized as a crime and drama production and carries a TV-MA rating. This work is distinct from the 1933 film of the same name. By analyzing the intersection of corporate interests and legislative oversight, the series highlights the systemic factors that contributed to the widespread distribution of addictive medication. The project provides a critical look at the mechanisms behind the opioid epidemic and the entities that facilitated its growth within the country.