Over a decade in the making, Telemarketers follows the scams behind the telemarketing industry, specifically the scandal of the Civic Development Group and those like it still operating into today, taking donations on behalf of veterans, local police, and politicians, but donating very little if any to the actual causes. Exposing the chaotic working conditions of these groups, and the disgusting practices to coerce those into donating. Built originally from early 2000s footage filmed by a former employee Sam Lipman-Stern, a former telemarketer at CDG, Danny McBride eventually funded its creation into a three part documentary for HBO. Joined by a troubled ex-coworker Pat Pespas, they seek to re-open investigations into these groups and whistleblow the horrible operations underneath. Compelling throughout, and shown through an extremely raw lens, I quite liked how authentic the series felt. However once they introduce Pat as a main character, as the series itself suggests, things begin to fall apart as he struggles during interviews, and his unhinged behaviour hurts more than it helps. All said, the story of these money making companies is so compelling, if not horrifying, and I'm glad to see the footage and story come to light, even if its a bit disorganized and fizzles towards the end. I hope it can see some funding for a follow up fronted by Sam himself, perhaps with a more targeted approach, I would certainly watch that.
Review of Telemarketers
