Ever since the rise of computers and the subsequent technologization of society, hackers have been taking advantage of this new reality for various purposes. Whether it’s stealing sensitive documents, exposing confidential governmental data, or sabotaging corporate rivals, hackers have become an influential force in our daily lives. Whether their actions are considered good or bad, hacking has undeniably become a part of our modern society. In this article, we will explore some of the best hacker movies ever made and examine how hacking is portrayed and the techniques showcased in the film.
One of the most iconic hacker movies is “Hackers” released in 1995. Despite its initial lackluster performance at the box office, the film has gained a cult following over the years due to its cyberpunk aesthetic and its ability to capture the atmosphere of the early days of the Internet. The movie follows a group of young hackers, including Angelina Jolie, Jonny Lee Miller, Matthew Lillard, and Renoly Santiago, as they confront a powerful and dangerous hacker. Throughout the film, the protagonists employ various hacking techniques and devices such as password cracking, phishing, and network scanning. It is important to note, however, that the movie tends to exaggerate and sensationalize real-life hacking, often stretching the capabilities of hacking attacks. Nonetheless, “Hackers” serves as a lighthearted introduction to the world of hacking movies.
“Open Windows” is a unique film that features a creative use of technology in its storytelling. Written and directed by Nacho Vigalondo, the movie presents a plot that unfolds through a series of videos seen through screencasts, capturing and recording video screens. The story revolves around Nick Chambers (Elijah Wood), a fan who wins the opportunity to meet his favorite actress, Jill Goddard (Sasha Grey). However, things take a dark turn when Jill’s cellphone gets hacked, with the camera and microphone being remotely activated. “Open Windows” explores the ambivalence of technology and its ability to connect people while also leaving them susceptible to hacking. The film cleverly showcases the protagonist’s ability to counterattack the hacker by tracking down their location. It serves as a reminder that those targeted by hackers can sometimes shift the power dynamic and respond with their own knowledge and abilities.
“The Italian Job” is a heist movie directed by F. Gary Gray and is a loose remake of the 1969 cult classic of the same name. After being betrayed by one of their crew members, Steve Frazelli (Edward Norton), a group led by Charlie Croker (Mark Wahlberg) plans a revenge heist to steal back their loot. In this modern adaptation, a hacker named Lyle (Seth Green) plays a crucial role in the crew’s plan. Using his hacking skills, he gains access to the city’s traffic control system, allowing the team to redirect the target of the heist to their desired location. “The Italian Job” highlights the technologization of society and how robbing techniques have evolved alongside it.
“23” is an underrated thriller based on actual events and directed by Hans-Christian Schmid. The film tells the story of Karl Koch (August Diehl), a real-life hacker who lived in 1980s Germany during the Cold War. Karl explores the capabilities of the global data network, an early version of the internet, and even becomes involved with the KGB. “23” offers a glimpse into the pioneering days of civilian hackers who began exploring the possibilities of new technological devices during the 1980s. Additionally, the movie portrays the shift from traditional espionage to electronic means, where computers became tools for spying.
“Tron” is a 1980s sci-fi cult film directed by Steven Lisberger. The story follows Kevin Flynn (Jeff Bridges), a former video game developer and owner of an arcade. After an attempt to hack into the system of the corporation he used to work for, Flynn is transported into the software itself. While “Tron” may not realistically depict hacking, it introduces audiences to the concept of cyberspace, a parallel reality made of codes and software. The film also features hacking-like abilities from the character of Flynn as he tries to gain unauthorized access to the corporation’s system. “Tron” was popular enough to warrant a sequel released in 2010.
“The Signal” is a unique blend of hacking, science fiction, and thriller directed by William Eubank. The movie follows three MIT students, Nic (Brenton Thwaites), Haley (Olivia Cooke), and Jonah (Beau Knapp), who receive mysterious emails from a hacker while driving to California. As they trace the hacker’s position, their lives are forever changed. Although hacking has a relatively small part in “The Signal,” it showcases the students’ ability to counterattack the hacker by tracking them down. The movie emphasizes that knowledge and specific skills can tilt the power balance, allowing those targeted by hackers to respond using similar tactics.
“Johnny Mnemonic” is a movie based on William Gibson’s own short story and directed by Robert Longo. Starring Keanu Reeves, Dolph Lundgren, Ice T, and Takeshi Kitano, the film follows Johnny Mnemonic, who possesses a storage implant in his brain that allows him to transport sensitive data. When Johnny agrees to transport something different from his usual jobs, he becomes the target of the Yakuza and a powerful corporation known as Pharmakom. Hacking plays a crucial role in “Johnny Mnemonic” as it is necessary to access the data stored in Johnny’s brain. The cyberpunk atmosphere adds depth to the hacking theme, as the movie showcases various technological devices throughout.
Based on Stieg Larsson’s novel of the same name, “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” was directed by Niels Arden Oplev. The movie follows journalist Mikael Blomkvist (Michael Nyqvist) and hacker Lisbeth Salander (Noomi Rapace) as they investigate the disappearance of a family member for the wealthy Vanger family. This film offers a more realistic portrayal of hackers and their abilities, devoid of futuristic or cyberpunk elements. Technology and computers play a significant role in gathering and researching information throughout the movie, particularly through the character of Lisbeth Salander, who utilizes her hacking skills extensively.
“Who Am I” is a German techno-thriller co-written and directed by Baran bo Odar. The film centers around Benjamin Engel (Tom Schilling), a hacker from Berlin who comes into contact with fellow hacker Max (Elyas M’Barek). This encounter sets off a chain of events that alters Benjamin’s life. “Who Am I” delves deep into the hacking world, providing detailed and stylish descriptions of hacking techniques. It is worth noting that this German film also showcases non-cyber techniques like dumpster diving, highlighting the practical actions that can complement computer-based hacking. “Who Am I” remains an underrated gem within the hacker movie genre.
“Sneakers” is a film directed by Phil Alden Robinson and features an impressive ensemble cast, including Robert Redford, Sidney Poitier, Ben Kingsley, Mary McDonnell, River Phoenix, and Dan Aykroyd. The movie revolves around Martin Bishop (Redford), the head of a security team with a past as a left-wing activist. When approached by NSA agents, Bishop and his team are tasked with retrieving a mysterious encryption device. “Sneakers” offers a comprehensive look at the combination of creativity and knowledge required to successfully execute hacking projects. The movie’s focus on a team of hackers allows for the exploration of different techniques and their complexities.
In conclusion, hacking has become an integral part of our societal landscape since the emergence of computers and increased digitization. Hackers, whether portrayed as heroes or villains, have captivated audiences with their complex and brilliant minds. The hacker movies listed in this article offer varied perspectives on hacking and its techniques, from the overemphasized and hyperbolic portrayals found in films like “Hackers” to the more realistic depictions in movies such as “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo.” Whether the representation is rooted in cyberpunk aesthetics or offers an arthouse twist, these films provide an engaging exploration of the world of hackers and their impact on our lives.