10 Must-Watch Documentaries on Software Development

Description: Although a dramatization, this film provides insight into the development of one of the most influential software platforms, Facebook, and the coding culture behind it.

Fact: The movie was based on the book "The Accidental Billionaires" by Ben Mezrich, and it won three Academy Awards.

Description: While not exclusively about software, this film looks at venture capitalists who funded many of the tech startups, including software companies, that shaped Silicon Valley.

Fact: The film features interviews with venture capitalists who backed companies like Apple, Atari, and Genentech.

Description: Although more focused on hacking, this documentary provides a historical perspective on the early days of computer programming and the culture that influenced software development.

Fact: It features interviews with some of the earliest hackers, giving viewers a glimpse into the roots of the digital revolution.

Description: A comprehensive look at the history of the free software movement, this documentary covers the rise of Linux and the GNU project, highlighting the ideological battle between proprietary and open-source software.

Fact: The film includes interviews with Richard Stallman, the founder of the free software movement, and Eric S. Raymond, a prominent open-source advocate.

Description: While not solely about software development, this film explores the life of Aaron Swartz, a prodigious programmer and internet activist, offering insights into his contributions to software and internet freedom.

Fact: The film includes interviews with Swartz's family, friends, and colleagues, providing a personal look at his life and work.

Description: This documentary delves into the world of open-source software, focusing on the development of Linux and its impact on the tech industry. It's a must-watch for understanding the collaborative spirit of coding.

Fact: The film was one of the first to explore the open-source movement in depth, featuring interviews with key figures like Linus Torvalds.

Description: This film provides an insider's view of Netscape's open-source project, Mozilla, capturing the intense rush to release the code before Microsoft's Internet Explorer dominated the market.

Fact: The documentary was filmed during the actual development process, giving viewers a real-time look at the pressures of software development.

Description: This three-part series chronicles the rise of the personal computer, focusing on the key players in software development like Bill Gates and Steve Jobs.

Fact: The documentary was produced by Robert X. Cringely, who also wrote the book "Accidental Empires" on which the series is based.

Description: This documentary focuses on the development of the first computer virus and the subsequent race to create antivirus software, highlighting the cat-and-mouse game in software security.

Fact: The film was made in collaboration with Symantec, providing an insider's perspective on the antivirus industry.

Description: This documentary explores the history of hacking, which has significantly influenced software development practices and security measures.

Fact: It features interviews with some of the most notorious hackers of the 1980s and 1990s.