Watch Pay 2 Play: Democracy's High Stakes

Pay 2 Play: Democracy's High Stakes is a thought-provoking documentary that explores the insidious influence of big money in US politics. Directed by John Ennis and released in 2014, the film features interviews with politicians, activists, journalists, and academics who shed light on the corrosive effects of money on democracy. At the center of the film is Jack Abramoff, a former lobbyist who spent nearly four years in federal prison for his involvement in a widespread corruption scandal. Abramoff is a fascinating and complex figure, and the film gives him ample time to explain his perspective on the role of money in politics. While he certainly bears responsibility for his past transgressions, Abramoff argues that the system itself is broken - that politicians are beholden to their donors, rather than their constituents, and that the only way to fix things is to fundamentally change the way we fund campaigns.

Throughout the film, we see numerous examples of how money can warp the political process. We see how a small group of wealthy donors can sway an election, how corporate interests can hijack a regulatory agency, and how dark money can be used to support candidates without any transparency or accountability. The film also highlights the ways in which money can lead to quid pro quo arrangements, where politicians prioritize the interests of their donors over the interests of the general public.

One of the most interesting aspects of the film is the way it delves into the history of campaign finance in the US. We learn about the landmark Supreme Court cases that have shaped the current landscape, from Buckley v. Valeo to Citizens United. We see how the rise of Super PACs has fundamentally changed the way campaigns are run, and how the flood of money into politics has disproportionately benefited a small group of wealthy donors.

Despite the many challenges facing our democracy, Pay 2 Pay doesn't wallow in despair. Instead, the film offers a wide range of solutions and strategies for reform. We see how small-dollar donations can empower everyday citizens to have a voice in the political process. We learn about innovative new approaches to campaign finance, like publicly-funded elections and democracy vouchers. And we see how grassroots movements can put pressure on politicians to prioritize the needs of their constituents over the interests of their donors.

Throughout the film, Ennis employs a creative and engaging visual style that keeps the viewer engaged. He uses animation to illustrate complex concepts, and incorporates music and humor to keep things lively. Perhaps most importantly, the film never feels preachy or didactic - it presents the issues in a clear and compelling way, and allows the audience to draw their own conclusions.

In addition to Abramoff, the film features interviews with a variety of experts and activists. Ralph Anspach, the creator of the board game Anti-Monopoly, offers a unique perspective on monopoly power and how it relates to the world of politics. Marge Baker, the vice president of policy and program at People For the American Way, provides a passionate and knowledgeable voice on the need for reform. And the film also features sit-downs with elected officials like Ohio Senator Sherrod Brown and former Representative Jim Leach, who share their experiences with the corrupting influence of money in politics.

Overall, Pay 2 Play: Democracy's High Stakes is an essential viewing for anyone concerned about the state of our democracy. While the issues it raises are often disheartening, the film offers a clear-eyed assessment of the challenges we face, as well as a wealth of potential solutions. It's a compelling and powerful reminder that the fate of our democracy is in our hands, and that we all have a part to play in creating a more just and equitable society.