10 Must-Watch Films About Programmers

Description: While not strictly about programmers, this pioneering film features a programmer who gets digitized into a computer world, showcasing early CGI and the concept of virtual reality.

Fact: Tron was one of the first films to use extensive computer-generated imagery.

Description: A young hacker inadvertently accesses a military supercomputer, nearly triggering a nuclear war, showcasing the potential dangers of computer hacking.

Fact: The film influenced the creation of the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act in the United States.

Description: A group of security experts, including a programmer, are hired to test security systems, but their latest job leads to a conspiracy involving a code-breaking device.

Fact: The film features a cameo by Stephen Tobolowsky, who plays a character obsessed with conspiracy theories.

Description: A cult classic, this movie follows a group of teenage hackers who must save the world from a corporate villain. It's a fun, albeit exaggerated, portrayal of the hacker culture in the '90s.

Fact: The film was initially panned by critics but has since gained a cult following for its depiction of hacking.

Description: This thriller follows a systems analyst whose life is erased from digital records, exploring the vulnerability of personal information in the digital age.

Fact: The film was one of the first to address the concept of identity theft in the digital world.

Description: Featuring a hacker recruited by a rogue government agent, this action thriller showcases the power of coding in high-stakes scenarios.

Fact: The film's title refers to a computer virus, not the fish.

Description: This film delves into the creation of Facebook, highlighting the coding genius and entrepreneurial spirit of Mark Zuckerberg. It's a must-watch for understanding the intersection of technology and social media.

Fact: The film was nominated for eight Academy Awards, winning three, including Best Adapted Screenplay.

Description: This biographical drama focuses on Alan Turing, a mathematician and computer scientist who helped crack the German Enigma code during WWII, highlighting the early days of computer science.

Fact: Benedict Cumberbatch's performance as Turing was critically acclaimed, earning him an Academy Award nomination.

Description: While not a narrative film, this documentary explores the Stuxnet computer virus, offering insights into cyber warfare and the role of programmers in national security.

Fact: The film was directed by Alex Gibney, known for his investigative documentaries.

Description: A young programmer discovers a conspiracy at a tech giant, exploring themes of corporate espionage and the ethics of technology.

Fact: The film was inspired by real-life events at Microsoft, though the company is not explicitly named.