One of the world's most famous films about fraud and embezzlement was financed with embezzled millions of dollars.

The 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) scandal involved the embezzlement of over $4.5 billion, leading to the downfall of Malaysia's government in 2020. The funds were misappropriated for various personal luxuries, including financing the film "The Wolf of Wall Street" through Red Granite Pictures, linked to the prime minister's stepson. Leonardo DiCaprio was indirectly involved, having received gifts from the stolen funds, which he later returned to authorities. The scandal was uncovered by journalist Clare Rewcastle-Brown in 2015, prompting investigations that led to the arrest of former Prime Minister Najib Razak and others. The case highlights systemic corruption and the misuse of state resources.