Hollywood filmmaker Carl Rinsch, known for directing the 2013 film 47 Ronin starring Keanu Reeves, has been accused of defrauding Netflix out of millions of dollars intended for a science-fiction series. Instead of using the funds for production, Rinsch allegedly spent over $11 million (approximately KSh. 1.4 billion) on luxury cars, cryptocurrency, and personal expenses, according to federal prosecutors.
Rinsch was indicted this week on charges of wire fraud and money laundering and could face decades in prison if convicted. The indictment, filed in a federal court in New York, was unsealed on Tuesday, the same day Rinsch was arrested. FBI Assistant Director Leslie Backschies stated, “Carl Rinsch allegedly stole more than $11 million from a prominent streaming platform to finance lavish purchases and personal investments instead of completing a promised television series.”
Although Netflix is not explicitly named in the court documents, Rinsch was previously reported to be in a dispute with the streaming giant over a planned series initially titled White Horse and later renamed Conquest. The show was intended to focus on a scientist who creates powerful clones banished to a walled area in a Brazilian city, where they develop advanced technology and clash with humans and each other. Rinsch reportedly completed six short-form episodes to pitch the series, leading to a deal with Netflix in 2018 to produce a full season.
Between 2018 and 2019, Netflix paid approximately 44million(KSh.5.6billion)fortheshow’sproduction.Rinschallegedlyrequestedanadditional44million(KSh.5.6billion)fortheshow’sproduction.Rinschallegedlyrequestedanadditional11 million to complete the project, which was granted. However, prosecutors claim he diverted the funds for personal use, including purchasing luxury clothing, furniture, a Ferrari, five Rolls-Royces, and making risky stock market and cryptocurrency investments. He also reportedly used the money to pay lawyers for his divorce and to sue Netflix.
The case highlights the risks of large-scale production deals in the entertainment industry. Netflix has declined to comment on the allegations. As the legal proceedings unfold, Rinsch’s actions serve as a cautionary tale about the potential for misuse of creative funding. The FBI has vowed to continue pursuing individuals who defraud businesses, emphasizing the importance of accountability in high-stakes financial agreements.
