Watch Client 9: The Rise and Fall of Eliot Spitzer

Client 9: The Rise and Fall of Eliot Spitzer is a documentary film from 2010 directed by Alex Gibney, that takes viewers on a journey through the turbulent and controversial career of former New York Governor, Eliot Spitzer. The film is a captivating and in-depth exploration of Spitzer's rise to power, his downfall and the enduring impact his scandals have had on politics and society.

The documentary traces Spitzer's career from his early days as a young attorney through his ascent to the position of New York Attorney General, where he earned the nickname 'The Sheriff of Wall Street' for his aggressive stance against white-collar crime. The film delves into some of Spitzer's most high-profile cases, including his investigations into the Enron scandal and the financial restructuring of insurance giant AIG during the financial crisis.

However, the main focus of the film is Spitzer's downfall in 2008, when he was implicated in a high-end prostitution ring. The documentary explores the various aspects of this scandal, including how it was uncovered by federal authorities and the resulting media frenzy that ensued. The film features interviews with key players in the scandal, including Spitzer himself, who is candid and introspective about his mistakes.

The documentary also delves into the broader implications of Spitzer's scandal, including the legal and ethical issues surrounding prostitution and the double standards that exist in society when it comes to sex and power. The film raises important questions about the intersection of politics and morality, and the ways in which political figures can be both heroes and villains.

Throughout the film, Gibney masterfully crafts a narrative that is both informative and engrossing, using a mix of archival footage, interviews, and recreations to tell the story of Spitzer's rise and fall. The film is not only a portrait of a complex and flawed individual, but it is also an exploration of the nature of power, ambition, and the cost of betrayal.

The film is anchored by Spitzer himself, who comes across as intelligent and deeply introspective. Despite his missteps, Spitzer remains a fascinating figure, and the documentary offers a glimpse into the personal struggles and motivations of a man who was once one of the most powerful politicians in the country.

Along with Spitzer, the film features interviews with a range of individuals who were involved in the scandal, including the former CEO of Emperors Club VIP, the high-end escort service at the center of the scandal, and the federal prosecutors who pursued the case. These interviews provide valuable insight into the workings of the investigation and the role that each player had in Spitzer's downfall.

Gibney's direction is masterful, and his skillful use of archival footage and recreations create a vivid and immersive experience for viewers. The film's editing is also top-notch, seamlessly weaving together different threads of the story to create a cohesive and engaging narrative.

In the end, Client 9: The Rise and Fall of Eliot Spitzer is a gripping and insightful documentary that offers a fascinating look at one of the most turbulent and controversial political careers in recent memory. Gibney's film is not only a portrait of a deeply flawed individual, but it is also a reflection on the larger issues of power, morality, and the human experience. For anyone interested in politics or American history, this documentary is a must-watch.

Client 9: The Rise and Fall of Eliot Spitzer is a 2010 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 57 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.3 and a MetaScore of 68.