Skip to main content

Deep Dive: Collective (2019)

Play Trailer

Film Lens

Collective
Collective is a documentary that focuses on the 2016 public health scandal in Romania following the Colectiv nightclub fire. The film follows investigative journalists from Gazeta Sporturilor as they uncover corruption and mismanagement in the public healthcare system. The fire, which occurred on October 30, 2015, resulted in the deaths of 27 people immediately and an additional 37 due to inadequate healthcare in public hospitals. The journalists reveal that the disinfectants used in hospitals were diluted, leading to further fatalities among burn victims. The narrative intertwines the journalists' investigation with the government's response, particularly the actions of the Minister of Health, Patriciu Achimaș-Cadariu. As the journalists publish their findings, including the role of the supplier Hexi Pharma, public protests erupt over the corruption. The film culminates in the resignation of the Minister of Health and the initiation of a criminal investigation against Hexi Pharma's CEO, Dan Condrea, highlighting systemic failures in Romania's healthcare system.

Why Watch

  • •Follow Gazeta Sporturilor's investigation into healthcare corruption.
  • •See the impact of the Colectiv fire on public health policies.
  • •Meet the journalists uncovering the truth behind Hexi Pharma.

Did You Know

•The Colectiv nightclub fire killed 27 people immediately and 37 more later.
•Hexi Pharma falsified documentation for disinfectants used in hospitals.
•Collective was nominated for two Academy Awards in 2021, a first for Romania.
•The film premiered at the Venice Film Festival on September 4, 2019.

Perfect For

Investigative journalismPublic health issuesRomanian history