Documentaries like The Great Hack, Citizenfour, and Risk have become essential viewing. They shine a light on the hidden forces influencing our lives—whether it’s the exploitation of personal information, the courage of whistleblowers, or the ethical dilemmas of mass surveillance. These films, along with others like Terms and Conditions May Apply and Buy Now, don’t just tell stories; they challenge us to question the systems we’ve come to accept. This evolving list will serve as a resource to explore the critical issues of privacy, transparency, and consumerism, highlighting films that provoke thought and inspire action in our ever-connected world.
The Great Hack
A wake-up call, urging us to scrutinize how our personal information is collected and used. It’s a reminder that in the quest for convenience and connectivity, we must remain vigilant about safeguarding our privacy. https://www.netflix.com/title/80117542https://www.netflix.com/title/80117542
Citizenfour
Both a chilling exposé of mass surveillance and a powerful testament to the courage it takes to challenge systemic abuses of power. It’s a must-watch for anyone concerned about privacy and the balance between security and freedom. https://www.amazon.com/Citizenfour-Edward-Snowden/dp/B0CPGXHSX9/
Risk
A documentary by the Academy Award-winning filmmaker Laura Poitras (Citizenfour). Spanning six years, this raw and intimate film offers an unfiltered look at the man behind WikiLeaks, the ethical dilemmas he faces, and the global stakes of his mission to expose the truth. As the world grapples with issues of transparency, power, and freedom, Risk pulls back the curtain on the personal and political battles that define one of the most polarizing figures of our time. https://www.paramountplus.com/movies/video/ihqBAog_JYddMJ8_R9QW_R0z82VJuAR4/
Terms and Conditions May Apply
Do you read the Terms and Conditions connected to every website you visit or app you use? This film reveals what corporations/governments are legally taking from you and the consequences of clicking “I accept.” https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/amzn1.dv.gti.5cb65817-d16a-e3a5-d94c-c24d1b93fa7a
Buy Now
A 2024 documentary that exposes the manipulative tactics employed by major corporations to drive consumerism, often at the expense of environmental sustainability. Directed by Nic Stacey, the film features insights from industry insiders and whistleblowers, revealing how companies design products for obsolescence and utilize persuasive marketing strategies to encourage continuous purchasing. The documentary also highlights the environmental consequences of overconsumption, such as the accumulation of electronic waste and pollution in developing countries. By shedding light on these practices, Buy Now encourages viewers to critically assess their consumption habits and the broader impact on the planet. https://www.netflix.com/title/81554996
