Release Date: September 14, 2024 (United States)
Country of Origin: United States
Language: English
Filming Locations: South Carolina, USA
Director: Kerry David
Writer: Kerry David
Producers: Kerry David, Francis K. Sullivan
Cinematography: Felipe Vargas
Production Company: KDC & Films
Story
The compelling documentary “Open Secret” reveals the murky side of the New Hanover School District in North Carolina. The movie explores decades of institutionalized racism and child sex abuse that were concealed from the public due to a crooked power structure that permeated the local government. The film documents the courageous actions of a few committed citizens who made the decision to oppose the current quo and pursue justice for the victims.
The story revolves around their terrifying journey through a maze of lies, cover-ups, and startling conflicts of interest. They also encounter threats, intimidation, and multiple betrayals. The community’s optimism for justice increases as the FBI and the State Bureau of Investigations (SBI) become involved. The movie then takes an unexpected turn when the much-anticipated SBI report, which was supposed to bring complete transparency, instead exposes the extent of the corruption, devastating the community.
Holding public officials accountable and the perils of unbridled power are the key takeaways from this documentary. In order to ensure that the tragedies experienced by the children and families in New Hanover are never repeated, it is a call to action for communities to demand justice and transparency.
Plot Summary
The disturbing and impactful documentary “Open Secret” explores the horrifying claims of institutionalized racism and child sex abuse in the New Hanover School District in North Carolina. The film reveals the collusion and corruption within the local government’s corrupt power structure that allowed these horrifying acts to go unreported and unreported for decades. Watchers will see the courageous actions of a few citizens who stand up to confront this deeply entrenched system as the documentary progresses. These people fight for justice and transparency in the face of intimidation, threats, and betrayals. After the investigation eventually catches the attention of the State Bureau of Investigations (SBI) and the FBI, several high-ranking officials retire or resign amid scandalous headlines. The expected SBI report, however, reveals a startling turn of events that dashes the community’s hopes for justice and emphasizes how crucial it is that elected officials put the needs of their communities before their own goals. As a warning story, “Open Secret” highlights the perils of unbridled power and the significance of accountability.
Cast
Kerry David as Self (Director and Investigator)
Angie Kahney as Self (Community Advocate and Whistleblower)