Inside Job

Director: Charles Ferguson
Year Released: 2010
Rating: 2.5

Methodical breakdown of the events (deregulation!) that led to the housing market collapse in 2008, naming names and exposing greed - it was produced by the owner of the Philadelphia Eagles, Jeffrey Lurie, who was probably miffed he lost a ton of money in the crash. It plays out more like a book report or PBS special than anything (too academic, too reserved) ... it isn't until the very end, when Ferguson actually tracks down (and confronts) some sleazy academic-types that it has any sort of genuine bite (most of the 'key players' refused to be interviewed). Hank Paulson and Larry Summers come across as the Lords of the Scumbags, which is impressive considering they're surrounded by (well-compensated) filth in Brioni suits. Poor Mr. Spitzer (a.k.a. "Client-9") has to give a 'no comment' on the whole 'hookers and coke' issue ... it's best to stay away from judgment there, sir.