Secret City 2012
"A film about the City of London, the Corporation that runs it, and its role in the economic crisis."
Directed by Michael Chanan, *Secret City (2012)* peels back the layers of London's most enigmatic institution—the Corporation of the City of London—a historic powerhouse with roots deeper than Parliament itself.
Director: Michael Chanan
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Secret City (2012) about?
*Secret City* dives into the often-overlooked Corporation of the City of London, a 1-square-mile entity with outsized control over Britain's economy. The documentary examines its historical influence, financial policies, and role in perpetuating systems that critics argue have led to crises like the 2008 recession. Blending interviews with archival material, it presents a compelling case for transparency in governance.
Who directed Secret City?
Director Michael Chanan helms *Secret City*, guiding the project with a focus on investigative documentary filmmaking.
Who stars in Secret City?
The documentary features interviews and appearances by Natalie Bennett, Robin Blackburn, Alex Alhassan Darboe, Stephen Haseltine, and Jamie Kelsey-Fry.
Is Secret City (2012) worth watching?
Marked by its investigative tone and sharp critique, *Secret City* offers a unique lens into financial power structures—ideal for viewers fascinated by economics, history, or systemic critique. While not a mainstream thriller, its relevance to contemporary debates makes it a thought-provoking pick for documentary enthusiasts.
How long is Secret City?
*Secret City* runs for 72 minutes.
🎥 Trailer
About Secret City (2012) — The Corporation Shaping Britain's Economic Future
Directed by Michael Chanan, *Secret City (2012)* peels back the layers of London's most enigmatic institution—the Corporation of the City of London—a historic powerhouse with roots deeper than Parliament itself. This gripping documentary explores the 72-minute investigation into how this ancient Corporation, representing just one square mile, wields disproportionate influence over Britain's economic fate. Through sharp interviews and archival footage, the film uncovers the mechanisms by which finance capital thrives within its maze-like corridors of power, questioning whether its privileges have fueled financial crises and systemic inequities. Chanan crafts an atmosphere of quiet urgency, blending academic rigor with accessible storytelling to expose a system often hidden in plain sight.
Focusing on personalities like Natalie Bennett and Robin Blackburn alongside scholars and insiders, *Secret City* balances personal narratives with macroeconomic critique, painting a portrait of an institution that operates as both guardian and gatekeeper. The film's tone is measured yet provocative, inviting viewers to reconsider the very foundations of modern finance and governance in an era defined by economic tumult.