Producer of 'Dark Horse' Film Asks Minister to Suspend Investigation in São Paulo

The legal team representing Karina Gama, the owner of Go Up Entertainment and producer of the film 'Dark Horse,' has formally requested that Brazil's Supreme Federal Court (STF) assume jurisdiction over an ongoing investigation by the Civil Police of São Paulo. The defense also seeks the immediate suspension of the local inquiry.

According to Gama's lawyers, the investigation delves into financial irregularities allegedly linked to the Banco Master scandal and funds channeled into the production of 'Dark Horse.' They argue that this connection firmly places the matter within the STF's purview, as the court is already examining related aspects of the case, under the rapporteurship of Minister André Mendonça.

The film 'Dark Horse' has become a focal point in political discussions, especially after audio recordings surfaced allegedly showing Senator Flávio Bolsonaro requesting R$ 61 million from former banker Daniel Vorcaro, owner of Banco Master, to finalize the movie. The São Paulo Civil Police's investigation, which began in June, reportedly examines potential irregularities and diversions of funds from a municipal contract worth R$ 108 million. This contract, between the city administration and ICB (Instituto Conhecer Brasil), was intended for providing free Wi-Fi to underserved communities.

Gama's defense contends that the investigation extends beyond the municipal contract, encompassing the financing of 'Dark Horse' itself. They highlight that the lead investigator in São Paulo has explicitly stated that examining the origin and application of funds for the film is a key objective of the inquiry. The lawyers assert that the investigation's focus on the film's financing, involving Daniel Vorcaro and Banco Master, has been widely reported by the media, underscoring the need for the highest court's involvement.