News writer
A unique, cinematic new documentary, “Millionaire” - or “Millonario” in its original Spanish - dropped recently on Netflix. It's a twisty, deep-dive into a notorious lottery scandal, financial desperation, and trust in institutions that will resonate with viewers around the world.
The lottery scandal
In Chile in 2018, a farmer named Javier Zapata claimed a 2.4 billion-peso prize ($2.5 million USD) for a number drawing game called Kino. His ticket, however, was severely corroded after Zapata had lost it in the trash. When he recovered the mangled ticket and tried to submit it, its veracity was called into question, unleashing a long, winding battle between Zapata, the Chilean lottery, and the fickle public opinion.
One minute, Zapata was a humble worker and family man who deserved the prize, while the Chilean lottery was considered corrupt and evil. The next, he was a fraud, an unscrupulous drinker and horse-race gambler, and a pox on Chile's proud lottery tradition.
At the time, the scandal completely rocked the country and compromised trust in Concepción Lottery, Chile's national lottery. In other words, it's perfect for documentary fodder.
It wasn't until 2024 that a critical legal judgment was made in the ongoing case. But there won't be any spoilers here!
The documentary
Produced by Daniela Valenzuela and Ainara Aparici, “Millionaire” is an ambitious, slow-burning film that aims to tell every side of the story, though Concepción refused to participate. The viewers must watch this visual treat from beginning to end to know what happens - there are no teasers or jumps. There's only the real-time story set against a peaceful, grand Chilean landscape. Lavish and detailed re-enactments set this documentary apart from a standard scandal exposé, especially since they star the actual people involved.
The documentary also dives into lesser-told tragedies as Zapata battles addictions, financial ruin, a terrible accident, and other losses. His long-suffering, religious wife and daughter are along for the ride. No matter what side viewers fall on, these two women feel like the biggest victims of it all.
As more characters pile into the legal fracas - including an eccentric second claimant who breeds puppies - the deadline to claim the prize looms.
The documentary can be frustrating and absurd, mainly because the real-life ordeal was just that. Experts, witnesses, friends, and lawyers all chime in with different opinions that pull viewers in every direction.
But the sure takeaway? Always take care of your lottery tickets.
More documentaries about lottery scandals
Lottery and sweepstakes scandals have been going on since time immemorial, and they make for excellent stories. There are tons of hit documentaries about lottery and sweepstakes scandals that captivate viewers, thanks to the incredibly high stakes.
“McMillions” tells the story of a famous McDonald's sweepstakes that was corrupt from the top. In another tale of human error, “The $3 Million Dollar Mistake” is about a lotto winner who leaves their ticket on the counter at a store, leading to a criminal comedy of errors. People will go to great lengths to win these games, which is why stories like “Millionaire” can be so polarizing.
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