‘Telemarketers’
HBO’s new docuseries Telemarketers feels one-part workplace comedy and one-part “totally freaking f-ed up” as it exposes the dubious nature of a now-defunct New Jersey call center. Before FTC shut the operation down in 2009, the Civic Development Group misled folks into donating money to local police and fire departments by lying about donating 100% of the funds to the agencies, when in reality, they only received 10-15%. The show is directed by Adam Bhala Lough and Sam Lipman-Stern, the latter of whom is a former employee at the call center. Lipman-Sterm filmed questionable occurrences at work with the reassurance of his all-star colleague Pat Pespas, who was known as a telemarketing legend. Over three hour-long episodes, the two dig deeper into the company and others involved. The docuseries delivers an intriguing story with handmade, low-fi visuals that feel nostalgic and trusting.