W2TCH

33 Essential Films for Geeks

33 titles

Default orderPopularityIMDb ratingTMDB ratingRelease dateRuntimeTitleBudgetBox officeAscending
  1. 1Nerdcore RisingMovie · 2008 · 80mNerdcore Rising is a documentary/concert film featuring MC Frontalot and other artists in the nerdcore hip hop scene, including mc chris, Wheelie Cyberman of Optimus Rhyme, and MC Lars. It includes contributions from figures like "Weird Al" Yankovic, Prince Paul, and Brian Posehn. The film blends interviews exploring the history of nerdcore with footage from MC Frontalot's 2006 national tour.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.8
  2. 2Office SpaceMovie · 1999 · 90mFeeling deeply unhappy, a desk-bound professional seeks help through hypnotherapy. The treatment leaves him in a constant state of carefree happiness, leading him to disregard societal norms and devise a clumsy plan to steal from his demanding employers.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.4
  3. 3Code RushMovie · 2000 · 56mIn Silicon Valley, where technology thrives and pressure is constant, a story unfolds about the engineers at Netscape Communications. They make a daring attempt to rescue their company. *Code Rush* offers a close look at the intense human drama and excitement surrounding the intersection of science, engineering, and business.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.8
  4. 4In the Realm of the HackersMovie · 2003 · 55m"In The Realm of the Hackers" documents a prominent hacker community based in Melbourne, Australia, from the late 1980s to the early 1990s. The film follows Australian teenagers known as "Electron" and "Phoenix," members of an elite hacking group called The Realm. They gained access to some of the most secure computer networks globally, including those of the US Naval Research Laboratory, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, a government lab responsible for US nuclear stockpile security, and NASA.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.4
  5. 5Hacking DemocracyMovie · 2006 · 82mThis documentary film examines claims of election fraud surrounding the 2004 U.S. presidential election. Electronic voting machines handle roughly 90% of votes in American elections, a technology now used globally. The film reveals controversial evidence from locations across the U.S., including discarded ballots in Texas and manipulated vote counts in Ohio, suggesting voter suppression, vulnerable software, and election official interference in the recount process. "Hacking Democracy" highlights the potential for undetected vote theft, culminating in the "Hursti Hack"—a confrontation between Diebold voting machines and a Finnish hacker, with significant implications for American democracy.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.6
  6. 6Ecstasy of Order: The Tetris MastersMovie · 2012 · 93m · DocumentaryThis documentary follows the world's top Tetris players as they train for the Classic Tetris World Championship. It chronicles over two decades of Tetris history, from Thor Aackerlund's win at the 1990 Nintendo World Championships to Harry Hong achieving a perfect score.IMDb 7.5TMDB 6.9
  7. 7We Are Legion: The Story of the HacktivistsMovie · 2012 · 93m · DocumentaryThis film delves into the world of Anonymous, the influential "hacktivist" group that has changed how people protest online. It begins by examining early hacktivist groups like Cult of the Dead Cow and Electronic Disturbance Theater, then follows Anonymous' emergence on the 4chan website. Through interviews with current members, those recently released from prison or facing legal charges, writers, academics, activists, and key figures in major "raids," the documentary charts Anonymous’ development from a group of pranksters into a powerful global movement representing a new form of civil disobedience.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.1
  8. 8HawkingMovie · 2004 · 90m · Drama, TV MovieThis is the story of Professor Stephen Hawking's early life. It's 1963, and the 21-year-old cosmologist is celebrating his birthday. A new friend, Jane Wilde, is at the party, and a strong connection forms between them. Jane is fascinated by Stephen's discussions of stars and the universe. But she becomes concerned when Stephen suddenly discovers he can no longer stand up.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.1
  9. 9Travelling SalesmanMovie · 2012 · 80mFour mathematicians are brought together by a high-ranking official from the U.S. Department of Defense. They discuss the need for caution and control regarding their work. The official offers them $10 million for their algorithm, addressing their concerns and persuading them to consider the deal. One mathematician voices opposition, revealing a troubling aspect of his contribution. Before finalizing the agreement with the government, the group grapples with the ethical implications of their discovery.IMDb 5.8TMDB 5.6
  10. 10Tetris: From Russia with LoveMovie · 2004 · 59mThe story explores the creation of a highly addictive game, detailing its intense competition, pressure tactics, and resulting legal battles. The game's development unfolds against the backdrop of Cold War rivalry between Eastern and Western nations.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.5
  11. 11The Social NetworkMovie · 2010 · 121m · DramaIn 2003, Harvard student and computer programmer Mark Zuckerberg develops an idea that evolves into Facebook, the world's largest social network. By 2009, Zuckerberg has become one of the youngest billionaires, but his rapid success brings unexpected challenges. He faces two lawsuits: one from a former friend, creating significant personal and legal difficulties.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.4
  12. 12Freedom DowntimeMovie · 2001 · 121mThis film explores the Free Kevin movement and the online community of hackers.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.0
  13. 13Free to PlayMovie · 2014 · 75m · DocumentaryThree professional video game players face challenges from their personal lives, families, and the demands of real life as they compete in a $1,000,000 tournament with the potential to transform their futures.IMDb 7.6TMDB 6.9
  14. 14We Steal Secrets: The Story of WikiLeaksMovie · 2013 · 127m · DocumentaryJulian Assange, Bradley Manning, collateral damage, Cablegate, and WikiLeaks – these names and concepts have dramatically reshaped how democratic societies handle privacy, secrecy, and the public's right to know, with potential long-term consequences. *We Steal Secrets: The Story of WikiLeaks* provides a comprehensive look at WikiLeaks and the wider global discussion surrounding access to information.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.6
  15. 15With Great Power: The Stan Lee StoryMovie · 2010 · 80mAt 89, Stan Lee's name has appeared on over a billion comics in 75 countries, translated into 25 languages. He is arguably the most recognizable figure in comics, having co-created more than 500 iconic pop culture characters like Spider-Man, the Fantastic Four, the X-Men, Iron Man, Thor, and the Hulk. Stan continues to develop new stories and characters for fans of all ages across various entertainment platforms. "With Great Power: The Stan Lee Story" explores the vibrant life and imagination of Stan Lee, from his Depression-era childhood through the Marvel Age of Comics and into the present day. The film features original transcripts, illustrations, photographs, and stories detailing Lee's fascinating journey, starting with his early years at Timely Comics and during World War Two, through the 1950s censorship battles led by Dr. Fredric Wertham, the creation of Marvel Comics and its legendary characters, and finally to his current company, POW! Entertainment.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.8
  16. 16HackersMovie · 1995 · 105m · Action, Crime, ThrillerA teenage computer whiz's life changes when he's arrested for writing a virus. Banned from computers, he joins forces with new friends to expose a dangerous scheme by a ruthless hacker. They navigate the digital world, using their skills to find proof while staying one step ahead of the Secret Service and the virus's creator. The film examines how easily innovation can be used for harm, exploring the complexities of cybercrime and the fight for justice. Combining suspenseful action and challenging puzzles, it offers an engaging story that makes audiences consider the power and risks of technology in today's world.IMDb 6.2TMDB 6.4
  17. 17DimensionsMovie · 2011 · 99mIn England during what seems like the 1920s, young Stephen's reality is challenged when he encounters a captivating professor at a garden party. The professor reveals to Stephen and his friends the possibility of existence in different dimensions, suggesting that manipulating these dimensions could unlock time travel. Driven by this revelation, Stephen dedicates himself to making the professor's theories a reality. As his life progresses, he confronts jealousy, love, obsession, temptation, and greed, all of which profoundly affect his mind and the course of his work.IMDb 5.8TMDB 4.6
  18. 18The Triumph of the Nerds: The Rise of Accidental EmpiresMovie · 1996 · 165m · DocumentaryThis documentary series explores the captivating history of personal computers through the stories of the people who created them. It features the often-overlooked individuals whose innovative work dramatically reshaped technology. Filmmaker Bob Cringley films these industry pioneers in their environments, combining humor and candidness to reveal their experiences. The series reflects the unpredictable nature of the tech industry, offering an informative yet bold look at its past.IMDb 8.4TMDB 7.4
  19. 19A Beautiful MindMovie · 2001 · 135m · Drama, RomanceJohn Forbes Nash Jr. rises to fame as a brilliant but socially awkward mathematician, poised for international recognition after a major discovery. However, accepting a classified cryptography assignment draws him into a shadowy conspiracy. His life spirals into turmoil, forcing him to confront a difficult and deeply personal path toward understanding himself.IMDb 8.2TMDB 7.9
  20. 20Riot On!Movie · 2004 · 78mIn the year 2000, Riot Entertainment, a new mobile phone company, attracts significant investment from major corporations like Nokia. Millions are poured into the company. However, two years later, with all funds depleted, Riot Entertainment declares bankruptcy. The film explores the events that led to the company's downfall.IMDb 6.2TMDB 4.7
  21. 21Hackers Are People TooMovie · 2008 · 43mThis film explores the world of hacking. It aims to challenge common assumptions and media portrayals by giving hackers a voice and introducing their community to a wider audience.IMDb 5.8TMDB 6.1
  22. 22Hackers WantedMovie · 2009 · 87mHackers Wanted examines the beginnings and essence of hacking by charting the experiences of Adrian Lamo, while juxtaposing his story with those of notable figures from the past.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.0
  23. 23The Fifth EstateMovie · 2013 · 128m · Drama, ThrillerThis film explores the evolving partnership between Julian Assange, the founder of WikiLeaks, and Daniel Domscheit-Berg, an early supporter who became a key collaborator. It charts how the organization’s rapid rise to prominence and global impact ultimately fractured their friendship beyond repair.IMDb 6.2TMDB 6.0
  24. 24Indie Game: The MovieMovie · 2012 · 103m · DocumentaryThis film chronicles the intense experiences of video game developers as they bring their creations to life and release them to players worldwide. It’s a story about the process of making video games, fundamentally exploring the act of creative expression and the vulnerability inherent in sharing one's work with the public.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.5
  25. 25PiMovie · 1998 · 84m · Mystery, Drama, ThrillerA brilliant mathematician discovers hidden patterns in the universe, giving him an uncanny ability to predict the future. Driven by a desire to understand reality, he immerses himself in the world of numbers, seeking to solve its deepest mysteries. But as his exploration deepens, the distinction between reality and illusion fades, and his understanding of cause and effect becomes distorted. Will his gift allow him to control destiny, or will it lead him to madness?IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.1
  26. 26The KGB, the Computer and MeMovie · 1990 · 56mIn 1986, Clifford Stoll, an astronomer turned computer scientist at Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory, discovers a 75-cent discrepancy in the system's accounting records. Suspecting a hacker, he embarks on a quest to identify the person responsible. The film recounts his journey to track down KGB cracker Markus Hess, ultimately tracing him through the emerging Ethernet network to Hannover, Germany.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.8
  27. 27Pirates of Silicon ValleyMovie · 1999 · 97m · Drama, TV MovieThis film explores the remarkable story of two young innovators who transformed the tech industry and helped shape today's world. It follows their journey from college students facing many obstacles as they pursue ambitious goals. The movie details the founding of Apple Computer Inc. and Microsoft Corporation, and the ingenious strategies these entrepreneurs used to build global tech empires. Through compelling storytelling and a realistic look at their successes and failures, the film offers a unique perspective on how these two men revolutionized the world with their groundbreaking ideas and unwavering determination.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.0
  28. 28We Live in PublicMovie · 2009 · 89m · DocumentaryIn 1999, internet entrepreneur Josh Harris gathers a group of young men and women who agree to live in underground apartments, with their lives broadcast online. Harris and his girlfriend then join them, streaming live footage of their daily routines – meals, arguments, intimate moments, and personal care. This documentary examines technology's impact on modern life, documenting the precarious state of the dot-com boom.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.8
  29. 29TPB AFK: The Pirate Bay - Away from KeyboardMovie · 2013 · 82m · Documentary, CrimeTPB AFK is a documentary about three computer enthusiasts who revolutionized media sharing with their website, The Pirate Bay. The film explores how Tiamo, a beer-loving hardware expert; Brokep, an environmentally conscious activist; and Anakata, a paranoid hacker with libertarian views, managed to provoke the White House into threatening trade sanctions against Sweden. The documentary examines the personal lives of these controversial figures, widely known for their defiance of Hollywood's copyright policies.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.2
  30. 30Steve Jobs: One Last ThingMovie · 2011 · 60mONE LAST THING offers an intimate look at the life of a visionary whose work profoundly impacted countless people. Through conversations with those who worked with him and knew him personally, the film explores the key influences that shaped his career and the man himself.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.4
  31. 31Revolution OSMovie · 2001 · 85m · DocumentaryREVOLUTION OS chronicles the story of the hackers who challenged the dominance of proprietary software, specifically Microsoft, by developing GNU/Linux and sparking the Open Source movement.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.9
  32. 32The CodeMovie · 2001 · 58m"The Code" is a documentary from Finland that explores Linux, featuring prominent figures in the free software movement.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.2
  33. 33Underground: The Julian Assange StoryMovie · 2012 · 89mIn 1989, Julian Assange and two friends founded a group called the International Subversives, known as Mendax. Using early home computers, they identified themselves as "white hat" hackers – those who expose vulnerabilities without stealing. The group successfully infiltrated some of the world's most powerful and secretive organizations. The US government viewed them as a significant threat to national security.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.3