In the realm of investigative journalism, few topics have stirred public discussion quite like the shocking revelations surrounding the French retirement home group, Orpea. Victor Castanet’s poignant insights into these abuses were meticulously documented in his best-selling book, Les Fossoyeurs, published in 2022. Now, this critical work has taken a new form, evolving into a compelling two-part documentary titled Les Fossoyeurs, au cœur du scandale des Ehpad, set to air on France 2 on March 25, 2025, at 21:10, just three years after these pressing allegations first reached public attention.
The documentary aims to further unpack the weighty issues detailed in Castanet’s original investigative piece, which outlined the extensive mistreatment within Orpea’s facilities. With 250 witnesses participating in Castanet's investigation, the film emphasizes the indispensable role of whistleblowers—those courageous individuals who risked so much to bring this critical issue to light. Castanet reflects on the film’s purpose, stating, “The idea was to prolong the investigation and continue imposing the subject in the media debate.” He believes that sustained media pressure is necessary for driving political change, as he insists that without it, such important issues are often neglected.
This documentary adapts Castanet's rigorous research into a visual format, spotlighting not only the harrowing experiences of the victims but also highlighting the determination of those who spoke out. In a statement to Télérama, he expressed admiration for the whistleblowers: “Why did they take this risk? What dilemmas and obstacles did they have to overcome?” This thought-provoking exploration delves into the minds of those who recognized the systemic failings within a care structure that was supposed to protect the vulnerable. The film celebrates their bravery, framing their actions as both necessary and commendable.
Among the whistleblowers highlighted in the documentary are a diverse array of individuals, including members of residents’ families from affluent areas like Neuilly and the 16th arrondissement, aides working for a meager 1400 euros a month, high-level executives, a cook, and even a young apprentice. Castanet notes the striking variety of backgrounds, saying, “My investigation brought together bourgeois families of residents, aides, high-ranking officials, and others from different walks of life—all united by a common cause.” This diversity illustrates how the recognition of systemic abuse transcended class lines, as those who participated in the investigation realized the dire implications of the mistreatment faced by both residents and staff within these facilities.
Castanet has reported an influx of emails from whistleblowers sharing their own stories and insights, which he considers integral to sustaining the momentum of change. The documentary, directed by Vincent Trisolini, not only revisits the investigative findings but also chronicles the three-year journey Castanet undertook to expose this scandal. It details the pressure he faced and the substantial challenges encountered along the way. Castanet candidly remarks, “It was so crazy, so big that sometimes we wondered if it was true.” This statement underscores the immense challenges involved in sifting through numerous documents, convincing people to speak out, and piecing together an intricate web of evidence that could withstand scrutiny.
The broadcast of the documentary will be followed by a debate moderated by Carole Gaessler, in which Castanet and other figures involved in the retirement home sector will participate. This segment aims to provoke discussion and raise awareness surrounding the issues highlighted in both the documentary and Castanet's original work. The film serves not only as a lens into the dark realities of elder care in France but also as a platform for those affected by the system’s failings to have their voices heard in the public domain.
As viewers tune in to witness this powerful exposé, it stands to reason that genuine conversations will be sparked regarding elder care reform in France. In the wake of these revelations, the public outcry has been deafening, and it remains to be seen how policymakers will respond to the cries for change. After all, as Castanet points out, the power of testimonies from whistleblowers has the potential to enact significant improvements in both the political landscape and the lives of those who depend on these care facilities.
