Backstabbing for Beginners

Backstabbing for Beginners

Year: 2018

Runtime: 108 min

Language: English

Director: Per Fly

Echo Score: 30
DramaHistoryThriller

An idealistic United Nations employee, Michael, finds himself entangled in a dangerous conspiracy when his mentor's true motives are revealed. Investigating the Oil-for-Food Program, he discovers a massive corruption scheme where billions of dollars intended to aid the Iraqi people were diverted by officials. Michael must navigate a treacherous world of deceit and betrayal as he uncovers the shocking extent of the fraud.

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Timeline – Backstabbing for Beginners (2018)

Trace every key event in Backstabbing for Beginners (2018) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Michael's Childhood Trauma

Michael Sullivan's early years were overshadowed by the tragic loss of his father, who was a diplomat for the US State Department. This formative experience deeply impacts Michael's later choices and aspirations.

2

Career Change to Diplomacy

In the fall of 2002, Michael abandons a promising banking career for an opportunity to join the United Nations as a diplomat. This decisive shift reflects his ambition to contribute to global humanitarian efforts.

Fall 2002
3

Appointment to the Oil-for-Food Programme

Michael is appointed as an assistant to Under-Secretary-General Costa 'Pasha' Passaris. His new role focuses on overseeing the Oil-for-Food Programme, which was initially designed to help the citizens of Iraq.

United Nations Headquarters
4

First Visit to Baghdad

During his first visit to Baghdad, Michael meets Christina Dupre, the local chief UN diplomat. She shares her serious concerns about corruption in the Oil-for-Food Programme, hinting at her plans to reveal the truth.

Baghdad, Iraq
5

Uncovering Corruption

As Michael investigates further, he uncovers a vast corruption scandal involving $20 billion meant for humanitarian aid. This shocking revelation alerts him to the deep-seated issues plaguing the program and its management.

6

Relationship with Nashim Hussani

Amid the unfolding chaos, Michael finds love with Nashim Hussani, a dedicated UN worker. Their relationship blossoms as she provides him with valuable insights about the struggles of the Kurdish people and ongoing corruption.

7

Mentorship from Pasha

Pasha takes Michael under his wing, despite not being without his own moral complexities. Through this mentorship, Michael learns about the harsh realities of diplomatic work and the balance between doing good and operating within a broken system.

8

Reflection on Humanitarian Aid

Pasha reveals to Michael that, despite the embezzlement scandals, $60 billion still managed to reach those in need, funding essential food and medicine for the Iraqi population. This statistic becomes a crucial point of reflection for Michael as he grapples with ethical dilemmas.

9

Tragic Losses Among Allies

As the investigation intensifies, the stakes become life-threatening, resulting in tragic losses, including the deaths of Nashim and Christina. These events weigh heavily on Michael, deepening his resolve to fight against the corruption.

10

Coalition Invasion of Iraq

The program is officially terminated following the Coalition Invasion of Iraq in 2003. However, Michael realizes that the corruption has not disappeared and continues to threaten the very fabric of the humanitarian aid efforts.

2003
11

Gathering Evidence for Justice

Driven by a passion for justice and truth, Michael begins meticulously gathering evidence of the corruption within the Oil-for-Food Programme. His efforts are focused on illuminating the malfeasance that has perpetuated the suffering of the Iraqi people.

12

Decision to Go Public

Realizing the importance of exposing the truth, Michael bravely decides to approach The Wall Street Journal. This decision marks a pivotal moment in his journey as he seeks to bring the hidden corruption to light.

Last Updated: November 15, 2024 at 15:52

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Backstabbing for Beginners Summary

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Backstabbing for Beginners

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Backstabbing for Beginners

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