Chapter 258: The Documentary "Black Gold"
Election is based on ability.
Since Dewey remains in the spotlight, Hardy continues to press his advantage. This is no longer just about the agreement with the consortium boss.
Is it fair to play?
Arnold's video material, which the FBI has a copy of, and the Global Times also possesses, has prompted Hardy to contact Mark Keane, President of the Global Times, and Edward, President of HD Pictures, to collaborate on a documentary film.
"Boss, do we need someone to portray Thomas Dewey?" Edward asked.
Hardy shook his head.
"No, just use Arnold's footage as the base. I want the documentary to be purely factual. Arnold's footage totals over eight hours, so there's ample material to create a compelling documentary."
"Remember, the documentary must appear impartial and neutral, even if the direction is clear: exposing Dewey's lawbreaking," Hardy instructed.
The two presidents knew that despite Hardy's insistence on neutrality, his intent was evident—to highlight Dewey's scandals.
"Boss, what should we title the documentary?" Edward asked.
Hardy pondered briefly.
"'Black Gold 1948'."
Creating the documentary was straightforward. With existing video and audio recordings, the editing took about a week.
Upon reviewing the finished product, Hardy was impressed by the director's skill. The documentary starts with Arnold discovering Dewey's political donations, his subsequent investigation, and the dangerous pursuit Arnold faced. Although it does not explicitly state that Dewey ordered the actions against Arnold, the narrative implies Dewey's involvement in a series of illegal activities to cover up his initial crime.
Hardy approached Meyer with the finished documentary, "I'd like MGM to help distribute this film."
Meyer was taken aback.
He was reluctant to offend Dewey, who was a prominent candidate for president. Such a move could backfire on MGM.
"Mr. Meyer, you also have stakes in the new casino. If Dewey gets elected, how do you think the Federal Court will rule on the casino's case?" Hardy pressed.
Meyer was surprised. "What does Dewey have to do with this?"
"Do you believe President Johnson has a chance for re-election?" Hardy asked.
"There's a good chance now, especially with this documentary," Hardy replied.
Meyer mulled over Hardy's words and said, "If you can introduce me to the President, I'd appreciate it."
Hardy smiled, "I can arrange that."
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Across the nation, 1,024 movie theaters prepared to simultaneously screen the documentary titled "Black Gold."
According to the Global Times, "This documentary faithfully presents Dewey's acceptance of foreign political donations."
The release of the documentary stirred significant public interest. The event, still fresh in memory, garnered substantial attention. Theaters were packed for the premiere.
The film opened with the HD Pictures logo and somber music, followed by the title "Black Gold."
Images of Dewey playing golf with an Eastern official flashed on the screen, with Dewey smiling and conversing animatedly.
Subtitles identified the figures: "Thomas Dewey, Governor of New York State and a candidate for the 1948 presidential election," and "Song Ziwen, former Minister of Finance of the Eastern Country, now a special envoy of the Supreme Leader."
The film then cut to Arnold. He spoke directly to the camera: "I'm Arnold from the Global Times. I discovered Dewey meeting with Song and took some covert photos."
Although the conversation between Dewey and Song was inaudible, Arnold inferred that Dewey was facilitating support for Song's presidency in exchange for $5 million, which was later deposited into Dewey's secret campaign account.
Federal law prohibits foreign political contributions, a regulation Dewey, a former prosecutor, should have known. This revelation shocked Arnold.
"I debated whether to go public or keep investigating. I saw this as an opportunity to create a documentary," Arnold said.
The documentary detailed Arnold's efforts to expose Dewey's corruption, including threats and a dangerous pursuit. Arnold's footage vividly depicted the tension and risk he faced.
The film concluded with Arnold's poignant final words: "I hope my footage reveals the true nature of someone who might become the U.S. President. Can such a person lead the nation?"
The documentary's gripping narrative and revelations left audiences shaken. Many who had supported Dewey were now disillusioned, seeing him as a symbol of corruption rather than justice.
The next day, major newspapers headlined the documentary's release.
"Los Angeles Times": "'Black Gold'—a gripping documentary more thrilling than any film. A must-watch."
"Global Times": "Arnold, the brave reporter, uncovers Dewey's corruption."
"Chicago Tribune": "The man who brought down Dewey: A certain bald-headed figure."
The documentary's impact was profound. It shattered Dewey's image and elevated Jiang to prominence as "the man who ruined Dewey."
Dewey, furious after learning of the documentary, destroyed his room in a fit of rage. He vowed revenge against Hardy, who had engineered this scandal.
"If I become president, you'll regret crossing me, Hardy!" Dewey roared amid the wreckage.
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With the documentary drawing crowds to theaters, Meyer reported to Hardy that it had surpassed expectations, achieving box office numbers higher than any film that year except for "Across the World."
Hardy was pleased. The documentary had not only been a financial success but had also significantly damaged Dewey's reputation.
"Fame and fortune," Hardy mused, "and all it took was a little strategic leverage."
In the evening, as Elaine took a shower, Hardy approached her, dropping his pretense of calm.
"Stop talking," he said, "just call me Hardy."
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