Wanted: The Escape of Carlos Ghosn (miniseries, 2023)
"Wanted: The Escape of Carlos Ghosn" is a 2023 documentary miniseries by Apple TV+ that delves into the story of former Nissan chairman Carlos Ghosn. Arrested in Japan in 2018 for allegedly underreporting his income to Japanese authorities, Ghosn managed to escape, becoming one of the most famous international fugitives.
The series takes a slow approach to character-building, leading viewers to initially form certain impressions that evolve as the documentary progresses. While it may not satisfy those seeking a high-action thriller, it offers a nuanced exploration of Ghosn's story, leaving room for speculation about whether he is a victim or a villain.
Corporate machinations and intrigues can be challenging to portray captivatingly on screen. "The Big Short" succeeded thanks to technical explanations provided by Hollywood celebrities, but Ghosn's story required a deeper dive into his personal life to save it from feeling dry. Making such maneuvers engaging is a tough task, even with a story as complex as that of former Nissan-Renault CEO Carlos Ghosn, who was arrested in Japan in 2018 on suspicion of financial misconduct, then escaped the country in 2019, against all odds.
In "Wanted: The Escape of Carlos Ghosn," the series aims to find a balance. It tells the story of Ghosn, the CEO who slashed expenses and made money, changing the fate of Renault and Nissan—until his arrest in Japan in 2018 on suspicion of "underreporting compensation" and "misappropriation of company assets," which led to his fall from grace. However, this is just one layer of what turns out to be a rich and multifaceted saga.
The series unfolds slowly, taking its time with details and painting a picture of how globalization often overlooks cultural differences, whether it's the French society's view on acceptable CEO compensation or the Japanese customs and nuances of workforce reductions. The 2008 financial crash led Ghosn to halve his salary, but perhaps also set events in motion that ultimately led to his subsequent arrest.
Featuring a diverse array of interviewees, including former ministers of France and Japan, journalists covering Ghosn, and former colleagues, the series presents multiple perspectives. However, at its core is Ghosn himself, who provides detailed interviews that are elegantly woven into the narrative. Despite some loose ends, the series offers a thoughtful approach to unraveling the complexities of power, money, and greed, rewarding those willing to invest their attention with a compelling story.