In an era where information is power, open data has become a cornerstone for transparency, innovation, and accountability. This curated list of documentaries delves into the fascinating world of open data, showcasing how it's transforming societies, governments, and industries. From exposing corruption to empowering citizens, these films highlight the pivotal role of open data in our digital age. Whether you're a data enthusiast, a policy maker, or just curious about how data shapes our world, this collection offers a deep dive into the transformative potential of open data.
Inside Job (2010)
Description: This film examines the 2008 financial crisis, using open data to expose the systemic failures and lack of transparency in the financial sector.
Fact: The documentary won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature. It includes interviews with key figures from the financial world.
Watch Now 
The Invisible War (2012)
Description: This film addresses sexual assault in the U.S. military, using open data to reveal systemic issues and push for transparency and accountability.
Fact: The film led to significant policy changes in the U.S. military regarding sexual assault. It was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.
Watch Now 
The Act of Killing (2012)
Description: Although not directly about open data, this film uses the concept of transparency to confront historical atrocities, showing how open data can be a tool for truth and reconciliation.
Fact: The film was banned in Indonesia but has been critically acclaimed worldwide. It uses a unique approach by having perpetrators reenact their crimes.
Watch Now 
The Square (2013)
Description: This documentary captures the Egyptian revolution, where open data played a role in mobilizing and informing the public, highlighting the power of transparency in political movements.
Fact: The film won the Audience Award at the Sundance Film Festival. It was filmed during the actual events of the revolution.
Watch Now 
Citizenfour (2014)
Description: While not exclusively about open data, this documentary on Edward Snowden's revelations about NSA surveillance underscores the importance of transparency and the role of open data in safeguarding democracy.
Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in
Watch Now 
The Price of Everything (2018)
Description: This documentary delves into the art world, where open data can reveal the true value and authenticity of art, questioning the transparency of the market.
Fact: The film features interviews with prominent artists and collectors. It premiered at the Sundance Film Festival.
Watch Now 
The Panama Papers (2018)
Description: This documentary explores the massive leak of documents from the law firm Mossack Fonseca, revealing how the rich hide their wealth, emphasizing the need for open data in financial transparency.
Fact: The leak was one of the largest in history, involving
Watch Now 
The Yes Men Fix the World (2009)
Description: While more about activism, this documentary showcases how open data can be used for social commentary and activism, exposing corporate and governmental misdeeds.
Fact: The Yes Men are known for their satirical interventions. The film includes a scene where they impersonate Dow Chemical representatives on BBC.
30 Days Free 
The Internet's Own Boy (2014)
Description: This film explores the life and tragic death of Aaron Swartz, a prodigious programmer and activist who fought for open access to information. It's a poignant look at how open data can challenge the status quo and the personal costs involved.
Fact: Aaron Swartz co-authored the RSS
30 Days Free 
The Great Hack (2019)
Description: This film investigates the Cambridge Analytica scandal, showing how data was used to influence elections, highlighting the need for open data policies to protect privacy and democracy.
Fact: The documentary was released on Netflix, making it accessible to a global audience. It features interviews with key figures involved in the scandal.
30 Days Free 
