Gaumont USA, based in Los Angeles, has acquired the audiovisual rights to “Opus,” an explosive exposé by financial journalist Gareth Gore. The book investigates Opus Dei, triggered by the unexpected 2017 collapse of Spain’s Banco Popular, which Gore describes as “one of the largest bank failures ever seen in Europe.”
The agreement was finalized between Gaumont USA and the media rights team at Curtis Brown, representing Gore.
Once considered one of Europe’s most profitable financial institutions, Banco Popular was sold to Banco Santander for a symbolic €1 ($1.2), according to Gaumont USA.
Initially sent to cover the collapse of Banco Popular, Gore thought it was a case of “unbridled ambition, poor decision making.” However, further investigation revealed significant missing pieces.
Gore’s book, “Opus: The Cult of Dark Money, Human Trafficking, and Right-Wing Conspiracy Within the Catholic Church,” set for publication in 2025 by Simon & Schuster in English and by Crítica in Spanish, uncovers these missing elements.
Gaumont USA stated that “Banco Popular” was allegedly more than just a bank. Controlled by a group of celibate men loyal to Opus Dei, the bank was transformed into a financial engine for the organization, expanding its social and political influence globally.
Gore’s book “Opus” highlights the ongoing and impactful power of Opus Dei, even in the U.S.
Gaumont USA plans to adapt “Opus” into a story that unveils the hidden intersections of religion, money, and politics.
“‘Opus’ is not just a financial story; it is a story about influence and accountability,” said Nicolas Atlan, President of Gaumont USA. He praised Gareth’s reporting for its cinematic depth, exposing a system operating openly yet without much scrutiny, which remains relevant globally.
Christian Gabela, Gaumont USA SVP & head of Spain, LatAm, and U.S.-Latino, remarked, “The book reads like a political thriller, but every twist is grounded in meticulous investigative work. It is a compelling true story that explores the complexities of power.”
Gareth Gore expressed his enthusiasm for the adaptation, sharing his excitement to collaborate with Gaumont USA, known for acclaimed series such as ‘Narcos’ and ‘Lupin.’
This project aligns with Gaumont USA’s strategy to secure intellectual property with both local and global significance.
The company considers both internal projects from its film and television library and external adaptations of existing books or real-life stories, according to Gabela, who spoke to Variety ahead of the Iberseries & Platino Industria event in Madrid.
The “Opus” adaptation specifically targets the Spanish market, though the global influence of Opus Dei gives it wider relevance.
