- The Internet's Own Boy (2014)
- Citizenfour (2014)
- The Social Dilemma (2020)
- Downloaded (2013)
- We Are Legion: The Story of the Hacktivists (2012)
- The Great Hack (2019)
- The Internet: The Final Frontier (2016)
- The World According to Monsanto (2008)
- The Virtual Revolution (2010)
- The Net: The Unabomber, LSD and the Internet (2003)
In an age where communication is the backbone of our daily lives, understanding the intricate world of telecommunications is not just fascinating but essential. This curated list of documentaries delves into the history, technology, and future of telecom systems, offering viewers a comprehensive look at how our world connects. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a student of communication, or simply curious about the invisible networks that bind us, these films provide a wealth of knowledge and entertainment.

The Internet's Own Boy (2014)
Description: This documentary explores the life and work of Aaron Swartz, a programming prodigy who was instrumental in the development of the internet, including RSS and Reddit. His story intertwines with the broader narrative of internet freedom and the role of telecom systems in information dissemination.
Fact: Aaron Swartz was involved in the creation of the Creative Commons, and the film features interviews with key figures in the tech world like Tim Berners-Lee.


Citizenfour (2014)
Description: While not exclusively about telecom systems, this film delves into the NSA's surveillance practices, which rely heavily on telecom infrastructure, offering a chilling look at privacy in the digital age.
Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in


The Social Dilemma (2020)
Description: While centered on social media, this documentary discusses the underlying telecom systems that enable these platforms to function and manipulate user behavior.
Fact: The film features former tech insiders from companies like Google, Twitter, and Pinterest.


Downloaded (2013)
Description: Focused on the rise and fall of Napster, this documentary examines how peer-to-peer file sharing changed the music industry and the internet itself, highlighting the telecom infrastructure that made it possible.
Fact: The film includes interviews with Shawn Fanning, the founder of Napster, and features insights from musicians like Noel Gallagher.


We Are Legion: The Story of the Hacktivists (2012)
Description: This documentary covers the rise of Anonymous, a group that uses telecom systems to orchestrate cyber-attacks, highlighting the power and vulnerability of our digital networks.
Fact: The film includes interviews with members of Anonymous, providing a rare glimpse into their operations.


The Great Hack (2019)
Description: This film investigates the Cambridge Analytica scandal, revealing how data harvested from social media platforms through telecom networks was used to influence elections, showcasing the darker side of telecom systems.
Fact: The documentary was nominated for an Emmy Award for Outstanding Documentary or Nonfiction Special.


The Internet: The Final Frontier (2016)
Description: This documentary explores the future of the internet, focusing on emerging technologies like 5G, IoT, and AI, and how they will transform our telecom systems.
Fact: The film features interviews with leading experts from Google, Cisco, and other tech giants.


The World According to Monsanto (2008)
Description: Although primarily about Monsanto, the film touches on the use of telecom systems in corporate control and the spread of information, making it relevant to our theme.
Fact: The documentary was banned in France due to legal action by Monsanto.


The Virtual Revolution (2010)
Description: This series explores how the internet has changed our world, with a focus on the telecom infrastructure that supports this digital revolution.
Fact: The series was produced by the BBC and features insights from leading thinkers like Clay Shirky and Douglas Rushkoff.


The Net: The Unabomber, LSD and the Internet (2003)
Description: This documentary connects the dots between the Unabomber, the rise of the internet, and the cultural shifts influenced by telecom systems during the late 20th century.
Fact: The film includes interviews with key figures from the early days of the internet, including Stewart Brand.
