43 Best Hacking Movies of All Time

Ademilade Shodipe Dosunmu  - Streaming Expert
Last updated: August 4, 2024
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If you're an enthusiast or a newbie to the hacking genre, discover the timeless hacking movies in this curated list of 43 movies!

The world of hacking offers an interesting combination of suspense, action, and thought-provoking themes surrounding cybersecurity and the evolving digital landscape. 

Whether you are a cybersecurity enthusiast, a fan of suspense, or just curious about hacking and technology, hacking filmd will surely provide you with an all-encompassing cinematic experience.

Brace yourself as we walk you through the 43 best hacking movies ever created and an exploration of brilliant minds behind virtual heists. So, without further ado, let’s get started!

Top 10 hacking movies – Quick overview 

Below is our quick review of the top 10 best hacking movies, where cybercrime meets mind-blowing actions and brilliant minds solve different puzzles.

  1. V for Vendetta: This movie combines action sequences with political commentary, making it a thrilling hacking movie with a strong message of resistance.
  2. Inception: Inception explores the concept of getting information from someone’s mind through a shared dream state.
  3. Westworld: This is a sci-fi series that revolves around insider threats, malware, and the vulnerabilities inherent in an interconnected network of devices.
  4. Live Free or Die Hard: The fourth installment in the Die Hard series, this movie explores how Bruce Willis McClane battles a cyber-terrorist organization.
  5. Skyfall: Skyfall showcases a range of clever ideas that are feasible, such as the theft of top-secret information happening on the internet.
  6. Pirates of Silicon Valley: This movie depicts the rise of two tech industry giants and their rivalry in shaping the computer revolution.
  7. Snowden: Based on real-life events, Snowden tells the story of Edward Snowden, a former CIA employee turned whistleblower.
  8. The Conversation: The Conversation is a thriller that follows a surveillance expert, Harry Paul, tasked with investigating a tycoon’s young wife.
  9. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo: In this movie, the protagonist uses an old NMPA to infiltrate the computers of individuals of interest.
  10. The Social Network: While not focusing on hacking per se, the movie explores the rise of Facebook and the debates surrounding its source.

43 best hacking movies for cybersecurity enthusiasts

From mind-blowing heists to high-stakes cybercrime, these movies offer a blend of suspense and intellect that will leave you on the edge of your seat. We will provide details about each and their IMDb links, available on popular streaming platforms such as HBO Max, Netflix, Disney, and even free movie websites listed here. Here is our curated list of hacking movies for cybersecurity enthusiasts.

1. V for Vendetta

V for Vendetta
Destination URLDurationIMDb RatingDirectorWritersLead castYear
Movie link2h 12m8.2James McTeigueLilly Wachowski, Lana WachowskiHugo Weaving2005

This adaptation, based on the British graphic novel of the same name, brings a modern twist to the narrative by including themes of government surveillance and media manipulation. A significant contribution of this story to cybersecurity culture is the iconic Guy Fawkes mask, which is closely associated with the hacking network known as “Anonymous.”

The impact of this adaptation extends beyond the screen, leaving a lasting imprint on the hacking culture and community.


2. Inception

Inception
Destination URLDurationIMDb RatingDirectorWriterLead castsYear
Movie link2h 28m8.8Christopher NolanChristopher NolanLeonardo DiCarprio, Joseph Gordon-Levitt2010

Featuring stars, including Leonardo DiCaprio, a skilled robber who played the role of Dom Cobb, Inception explores the concept of “hacking” people’s dreams to steal their secrets. His target, Saito, hires him to complete a daunting mission: to implant an idea into the mind of Robert Michael, a businessman.

Inception showcases the use of hacking techniques and advanced technology to manipulate the environment and infiltrate the subconscious. 


3. Westworld

Westworld
Destination URLDurationIMDb RatingDirectorsWritersLead castsYear
Movie link58m8.5Richard J. Lewis, Jonathan NolanMichael Crichton, Lisa JoyEvan Racheal Wood, Jeffrey Wright2016 – 2022

HBO’s reimagining of the 70s cult classic stands out as an epic and intense entry on our list of the best hacking films. Not only does this movie captivate viewers with its gripping storytelling, but it also delves deep into the complexities of cyber security

The series delves into specific plot points that revolve around insider threats, malware, and the vulnerabilities inherent in an interconnected network of devices.


4. Live Free or Die Hard

Live Free or Die Hard
Destination URLDurationIMDb RatingDirectorWritersLead castYear
Movie link2h 8m7.1Len WisemanJohn Carlin, Roderick Thorp, Mark BombackBruce Willis2007

This popular hacking action movie featuring Bruce Willis includes an entertaining mix of dialogues on cybersecurity and various exaggerated hacker themes. While certain tricks depicted in the movie, such as remote access to Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) or traffic light control, may seem technically impossible, putting them into practice, as shown in the movie, can be highly complex. 


5. Skyfall

Skyfall
Destination URLDurationIMDb RatingDirectorWriterLead castYear
Movie link2h 23m7.8Sam Mendes Neal Purvis, Robert Wade, John LoganDaniel Craig2012

Among the best hacking movies for cybersecurity on our list, Skyfall stands out with its memorable moments. The movie showcases a range of feasible clever ideas, such as the theft of top-secret information online. The scenes involving the sabotage of an HQ built on a deserted island will also interest you. 

However, truth be told, establishing a data center on a remote Asian island would not be beneficial, as it could be traced easily, and getting a reliable broadband connection would pose significant challenges. 

Often, real-world hackers prefer setting up their headquarters in bustling cities, particularly in Asia, where they can have a powerful connection. Physical isolation does not enhance security. Instead, encryption serves as a critical measure for protecting sensitive data.


6. Pirates of Silicon Valley

Pirates of Silicon Valley
Destination URLDurationIMDb RatingDirectorWritersLead castYear
Movie link1h 35m7.2Martyn BurkePaul Freiberger, Michael Swaine, Martyn BurkeAnthony Michael Hall, Noah Wyle1999

This movie delves into the origin of Microsoft and Apple. Based on the book “Fire in the Valley: The Making of the Personal Computer” by Paul Freiberger and Michael Swaine, the movie explains the intense rivalry between Steve Jobs and Bill Gates during the development of the personal computer

Although various movies have depicted Steve Jobs, including “Jobs” (2013) featuring Ashton Kutcher and “Steve Jobs” (2015) featuring Michael Fassbender, Pirates of Silicon Valley stands out due to its exploration of Jobs’ connection with one of history’s first hackers, John Thomas Draper, also known as Captain Crunch.


7. Snowden

Snowden
Destination URLDurationIMDb RatingDirectorWritersLead castYear
Movie link2h 14m7.3Oliver StoneOliver Stone, Kieran Fitzgerald, Luke HardingJoseph Gordon-Levitt2016

Directed by Oliver Stone, “Snowden” presents the captivating story of Edward Snowden’s life, acted by Joseph Gordon-Levitt. Based on Luke Hardin’s book “The Snowden Files: The Inside Story of the World’s Most Wanted Man,” this movie takes us back to 2013 in Hong Kong

Snowden, accompanied by journalists Glenn Greenwald and Ewen MacAskill and documentary filmmaker Laura Poitras, exposes documents he acquired while working for the NSA (National Security Agency), publishing them in The Guardian. The movie also exposes subsequent events and these publications’ impact on public opinion and Snowden’s life

Using skillful flashbacks, the movie further discusses Snowden’s journey from the army to meeting his partner Lindsay Mills and his early experiences in the CIA and NSA.


8. The Conversation

The conversation
Destination URLDurationIMDb RatingDirectorWriterLead castAvailable Countries
Movie link1h 53m7.8Francis Ford CoppolaFrancis Ford CoppolaGene Hackman1974

Harry Paul, a renowned detective recognized for his surveillance and security systems expertise, receives a unique assignment from a wealthy tycoon. Tasked with investigating the tycoon’s young wife, Harry must listen in on her conservations with an employee with whom she seems to be involved romantically.

Initially, the mission seems unremarkable, as the couple appears ordinary with no significance. However, as Harry delves deeper into the case, he discovers something strange behind the banality. Interestingly, his client refuses to identify himself and consistently communicates through intermediaries.


9. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
Destination URLDurationIMDb RatingDirectorWritersLead castYear
Movie link2h 32m7.8Niels Arden OplevNikolaj Arcel, Rasmus Heisterberg, Stieg LarssonMichel Nyqvist2009

The film adaptation of Stieg Larsson’s novel has gained a strong following, especially for its portrayal of computer piracy scenes. In this movie, the hero uses an old NMPA to infiltrate the computers of individuals of interest. This aspect of the story is quite feasible, as hacking can efficiently uncover personal secrets.

Unlike other traditional methods, hacking offers various advantages, including establishing surveillance systems or physically breaking into the victim’s apartment. However, an even more potent method lies in stealing the victim’s smartphone. These devices are typically packed with personal secrets and sensitive information that can be used to one’s advantage.


10. The Social Network

The Social Network
Destination URLDurationIMDb RatingDirectorWritersLead castsYear
Movie link2h7.8David FincherAaron Sorkin, Ben MezrichJesse Eisenberg, Andrew Garfield2010

The Social Network is a movie that provides captivating insights into Facebook’s creation and the university life of its founder, Mark Zuckerberg, as his life journey is told step by step. One of the most outstanding parts of this movie is the drama surrounding Zuckerberg’s project partners and those who sought to capitalize on his idea. 

The Social Network is definitely a must-watch, and if you look into the story depicted in the movie, you will understand why it has rightfully earned its reputation as one of the best tech movies available.


11. WarGames

Wargames
Destination URLDurationIMDb RatingDirectorWritersLead castYear
Movie link1hr 54m 7.1John Badham Lawrence Lasker, Walter F. Parkes, Walon GreenMatthew Broderick 1983

Considered a timeless classic in the cybersecurity world, WarGames remains one of the greatest hacking pictures of all time. The movie follows David (Matthew Broderick), a brilliant computer scientist who unintentionally connects to the US Department of Defense’s server, blurring the lines between game and reality. 

As the difference between reality and the game becomes increasingly unclear, David must rely on his girlfriend’s support and a computer expert friend to prevent a possible Third World War.


12. The Net

The Net
Destination URLDurationIMDb RatingDirectorWriterLead castYear
Movie link1hr 54m6.0Irwin WinklerJohn Brancato, Michael Ferris Sandra Bullock1995

The cyber-thriller “The Net” features Sandra Bullock, who takes on the role of Angela, a skilled computer expert who detects viruses and system malfunctions. However, Angela’s life changes unexpectedly when she discovers a program that grants unauthorized access to classified databases. 

Unknown to her, this discovery thrusts her into a dangerous web of corruption and conspiracy, endangering her life and her family.


13. Matrix

Matrix
Destination URLDurationIMDb RatingDirectorsWritersLead castYear
Movie link2h 16m8.7Lana Wachowski, Lilly WachowskiLilly Wachowski, Lana WachowskiKeanu Reeves1999

The Matrix trilogy is another standout hacking movie that deserves a place on our list of the 43 best hacking films of all time.

This mind-blowing science-fiction movie features a computer programmer named “Thomas A. Anderson” who lives a double life as a hacker operating under the alias “Neo.” Through his hacking activities, he crosses paths with “Trinity,” who introduces him to “Morpheus” and the truth about the Matrix — a simulation of the world representing the late 20th century. 

Machines enslave humans, leaving them in a state of suspension. As Neo joins forces with Trinity, Morpheus, and their group of rebels, a fight against the machines will occur to liberate humanity from its digital chains.


14. Blackhat

Blackhat
Destination URLDurationIMDb RatingDirectorWriterLead castYear
Movie link2h 13m5.4Michael MannMorgan Davis FoehlChris Hemsworth2015

Next on our list of the best hacking flicks is Blackhat. This cybersecurity movie delves into a collaboration between the Chinese and US governments as they unite to stop a network of elite cybercriminals. Their best shot at success lies with a skilled hacker, Nick Hathaway (Chris Hemsworth), a prisoner who possesses the expertise needed to safeguard the security of both nations.

Competing with time, he strikes a deal with the authorities, offering to help in exchange for a reduced prison sentence.


15. Jason Bourne

Jason Bourne
Destination URLDurationIMDb RatingDirectorWritersLead castYear
Movie link2h 3m6.6Paul GreengrassPaul Greengrass, Robert Ludlum, Christopher RouseMatt Damon2016

The Bourne series takes the spotlight with five films featuring former CIA agent Jason Bourne, played by Matt Damon. Robert Ludlum’s novels inspired Jason Bourne, and they were later continued by Eric Van Lustbader. These films feature Bourne’s relentless quest to recover his identity after he exposes the CIA’s covert assassination programs and disappears.

The latest installment, released in 2016, delves into the world of cybersecurity, exploring its various implications and adding a new layer of tension to Bourne’s world.


16. Ghost in the Shell

Ghost in the Shell
Destination URLDurationIMDb RatingDirectorWritersLead castYear
Movie link1h 47m6.3Rupert SandersShirow Masamune, Jamie Moss, William WheelerScarlett Johansson2017

Considered a science fiction manga by Shirow Masamune, “Ghost in the Shell” has captivated audiences through its various animated adaptations on television, video games, and cinema. On March 31, a live-action Ghost in the Shell arrives in Spanish cinemas, featuring a cast of talented actors and actresses.

The lead cast, Scarlett Johansson, brings a futuristic cyborg and member of the secret police force. She embarks on a journey to stop these high-tech threats in a world where cybercrime is rampant.


17. Sneakers 

Sneakers
Destination URLDurationIMDb RatingDirectorWritersLead castYear
Movie link2h 6m7.1Phil Alden RobinsonPhil Alden Robinson, Lawrence Lasker, Walter F. ParkesRobert Redford1992

The next sitting proudly on our list of the best hacking films for cybersecurity is the 1992 release, “Sneakers.” Featuring Robert Redford, a computer genius, the movie revolves around a group of IT experts responsible for safeguarding the security systems of large companies.

However, when circumstances force them to cooperate with a secret agency, they find themselves stuck in a high-stakes mission. The objective? To steal a black box capable of cracking intricate codes.


18. Hackers

Hackers
Destination URLDurationIMDb RatingDirectorWriterLead castsYear
Movie link1h 45m6.2Iain SoftleyRafael MoreuJonny Lee Miller, Angelina Jolie1995

Hackers follow the story of Dade Murphy, a talented young hacker who is restricted from using computers till he turns 18 due to an incident in 1998 that caused huge disruption to Wall Street servers. Upon reaching adulthood, Dade relocates to New York, where he meets a group of fellow hackers, including Kate (Angelina Jolie).

Their hacking activities eventually land them into trouble when they unintentionally target the wrong person, leaving them in a dangerous situation.


19. Takedown

Takedown
Destination URLDurationIMDb RatingDirectorWritersLead castsYear
Movie link1h 36m6.2Joe ChappelleTsutomu Shimomura, John Markoff, David NewmanSkeet Ulrich, Russell Wong2000

Takedown, also known as “Hackers 2” and “Track Down,” is another interesting hacking movie. Based on the book of the same name by journalist John Markoff and computer security expert Tsutomu Shimomura, the movie tells the story of how Shimomura helped the FBI apprehend Kevin Mitnick, a famous hacker.

Even during probation, Mitnick attempted to breach Shimomura’s computer security system, setting the stage for an epic cyber pursuit.


20. Antitrust

Antitrust
Destination URLDurationIMDb RatingDirectorWriterLead castsYear
Movie link1h 48m6.1Peter HowittHoward FranklinRyan Phillippe, Tim Robbins2001

Also referred to as Hackers 3, this thought-provoking movie criticizes monopolistic practices prevalent in the 1990s. The movie features Milo Hoffman, a computer genius who receives a job offer from one of the world’s largest technology corporations.

However, when Milo’s best friend passes away, he questions whether his new job is somehow connected to the sudden event. Notably, the company Milo joins is linked to Microsoft, with its fictional owner Gary Winston representing a parallel to Bill Gates.


21. Swordfish

Swordfish
Destination URLDurationIMDb RatingDirectorWriterLead castsYear
Movie link1h 39m6.5Dominic SenaSkip WoodsJohn Travolta, Hugh Jackman2001

Swordfish takes center stage, featuring a talented cast, including Hugh Jackman, John Travolta, Halle Berry, and Don Cheadle. Jackman plays the role of Stanley Jobson, a computer expert recently released from prison. Gabriel Shear (John Travolta), the leader of Black Cell, an anti-terrorist group, offers Stanley a huge sum of money to crack a complex security code. His objective? To steal a multimillion-dollar fortune in illicit government funds. 

Amidst the heist, there is also Ginger Knowles (Halle Berry), a member of Gabriel’s team, and FBI agent J.T Roberts (Don Cheadle), who monitors Stanley following his release.


22. Hacker

Hacker
Destination URLDurationIMDb RatingDirectorWritersLead castYear
Movie link1h 35m6.1Akan SatayevAtakhan, Akan Satayev, Sanzhar SultanCallan McAuliffe2016

No list of the best hacking films for cybersecurity enthusiasts would truly be comprehensive without “Hacker.” This action movie follows Alex Danyliuk, a Ukrainian immigrant who uses online activities illegally to support his family financially. When his family gets into trouble, Alex undergoes a dramatic change. 

Teaming up with Kira (Lorraine Nicholson), a young, talented hacker, they orchestrate chaos in the financial market, gaining the attention of Z, a masked figure and the leader of Anonymous, whom the FBI pursues. We must say that “Hacker” is a must-watch for those looking to explore cybersecurity’s darker side.


23. The Frauds

The Frauds
Destination URLDurationIMDb RatingDirectorWriterLead castYear
Movie link1h 30m5.9Stephan Elliot Stephan ElliotMitchell McMahon1993

The creators of “WarGames” also bring us this movie, which revolves around a device capable of decrypting passwords and breaching cryptographic systems. Naturally, numerous secret agencies across the globe are looking to obtain this device, with the NSA playing a significant role in the storyline. 

Truth be told, building a device of this nature is not feasible (otherwise, the NSA would not have been actively involved with crypto-mail providers). But the movie shows the effectiveness of social engineering techniques, remaining potent tools in both 1992 and 2013.


24. The Matrix Reloaded

The Matrix Reloaded
Destination URLDurationIMDb RatingDirectorWritersLead castYear
Movie link2h 18m7.2Lilly Wachowski, Lana WachowskiLilly Wachowski, Lana WachowskiKeanu Reeves2003

Not only has the Matrix trilogy popularized the concept of “simulated reality,” but it has also captivated geeks and cybersecurity enthusiasts with its stunning aesthetics. Although the movies showcase various acts of sabotage and hacking, these actions are played fantastically, akin to magical spells in the Harry Potter universe.

In the cybersecurity world, the issue of “sandbox escape,” which the protagonists of The Matrix must solve, does exist, and modern malware often exploits vulnerabilities, much like the case of Adobe Reader. However, it is noteworthy that the film’s creators did not explicitly consider these specific cybersecurity aspects.


25. The Great Hack

The Great Hack
Destination URLDurationIMDb RatingDirectorsWritersLead castsYear
Movie link1h 54m7.0Karim Amer, Jehane NoujaimKarim Amer, Erin Barnett, Pedro KosBrittany Kaiser, David Carroll, Paul-Olivier Dehaye2019

Amidst the Cambridge Analytica scandal, which exposed the unauthorized sharing of millions of people’s data through Facebook, “The Great Hack” emerged as a documentary hack movie based on that true story. Premiered on July 24, 2019, on Netflix, the movie explores the darker side of social networks and sheds light on how personal data from 87 million people influenced the 2016 US presidential election.

This movie offers a compelling analysis of ethical concerns surrounding social media platforms and the potential misuse of personal information in pursuing political manipulation.


26. The Italian Job

The italian Job
Destination URLDurationIMDb RatingDirectorWritersLead castYear
Movie link1h 39m7.2Peter CollinsonTroy Kennedy MartinMichael Caine1969

The Italian Job has earned its place among the best hacking flicks of all time, even though it may be considered an older film. This mind-blowing heist movie follows a recently released criminal who prepares an audacious plan to steal a massive shipment of gold and execute a successful getaway.

The key to their plan lies in creating an enormous traffic jam in Turin, Italy, achieved through manipulating the city’s computer traffic control system. The protagonists use three small Minis as their escape vehicles.


27. The IT Crowd (TV Series)

The IT Crowd
Destination URLDurationIMDb RatingDirectorWriterLead castsYear
Movie link25m8.5Graham LinehanGraham LinehanChris O’Dowd, Richard Ayoade2006 – 2013

One of our top recommendations for hacking enthusiasts is “The IT Crowd,” a popular British TV series that has captivated audiences over the years. This sitcom showcases the daily lives of brilliant young tech geniuses working in the technology department of a company.

Their supervisor, managing their exceptional talents, often finds himself learning from their expertise. The series’ humor makes for an entertaining watch, especially the first episode, setting the tone of the series. So, whether you are a computer genius or simply enjoy the hacking world, this series promises lots of laughter and enjoyment.


28. Mr. Robot (TV Series)

Mr Robot
Destination URLDurationIMDb RatingDirectorWriterLead castsYear
Movie link49m8.5Sam EsmailSam EsmailRami Malek, Christian Slater2015 – 2019

Elliot Anderson, a talented computer professional, leads a dual life in this series. During the day, he works as a digital security agent, protecting national interests. However, at night, he channels his hacking skills into a persona that has gained an enormous reputation.

Elliot’s exceptional skills and internal battles with depression create an ongoing debate about whether to use his talents for good or bad purposes. Thankfully, this series is readily available to stream on Netflix.


29. Open Windows

Open Windows
Destination URLDurationIMDb RatingDirectorWriterLead castsYear
Movie link1h 40m5.1Nacho VingalondoNacho VingalondoSasha Gray, Elijah Wood 2014

Through its distinctive scenery, Open Windows takes a unique and creative approach to storytelling. The movie showcases a series of videos viewed via screencasting, where the audience sees the events through recorded video screens. 

Starring Elijah Wood as “Nick Chambers” and Sasha Grey as “Jill Goddard,” the movie explores the dynamics of technology, interconnectivity, and vulnerability to hacking. In addition, the storyline surrounds the hacking of Jill’s cellphone, allowing remote control of its camera and microphone.


30. 23

The number 23
Destination URLDurationIMDb RatingDirectorWriterLead castsYear
Movie link1h 39m7.2Hans-Christian Schmid Hans-Christian Schmid, Michael Gutmann, Michael DierkingAugust Diehl, Fabian Busch1998

23 is an often-overlooked thriller that draws inspiration from actual events. Set during the Cold War era in 1980s Germany, the movie stars August Diehl as Karl Koch, a hacker who explores the global network, a precursor to today’s internet.

23 also serves as a window into the dawn of a new era, where espionage evolves electronically rather than depending on mysterious spies. Despite being underrated, this movie remains powerful and resonates to date.


31. Johnny Mnemonic 

Johnny Mnemonic
Destination URLDurationIMDb RatingDirectorWriterLead castYear
Movie link1h 36m 5.6Robert LongoWilliam GibsonKeanu Reeves1995

Based on William Gibson’s groundbreaking short story, “Johnny Mnemonic” boasts an impressive ensemble cast, including names like Keanu Reeves and Dolph Lundgren.

The story centers around Johnny Mnemonic, who can transport sensitive data through a unique storage implant in his head. In this movie, hacking is crucial, as various parties want the data stored in Johnny’s brain.


32. Ex Machina

Ex Machina
Destination URLDurationIMDb RatingDirectorWriterLead castYear
Movie link1h 48m7.7Alex GarlandAlex GarlandAlicia Vikander2014

Described by IGN reviewer Chris Tilly as “essential viewing” for those curious about the trajectory of technology, this movie tackles thought-provoking themes. With a protagonist who is a search engine coder, the story explores the implications of artificial intelligence, the risks involved in its development, and the likely security concerns arising when the line between humans and machines becomes blurry.

This movie prompts viewers to consider the growing relationship between humanity and technology.


33. Enemy of the State

Enemy of the State
Destination URLDurationIMDb RatingDirectorWriterLead castsYear
Movie link2h 12m7.3Tony ScottDavid MarconiWill Smith, Gene Hackman1998

Enemy of the State presents a thought-provoking exploration of computerized surveillance, a topic that gained further attention with real-life leaked documents brought to light by figures like Edward Snowden. The movie imagines the potential devastation that could arise from unbridled access to consumer data, emphasizing the implications of unchecked surveillance.

Notably, then-NSA Director Gen. Michael Hayden expressed his discontent with the agency’s depiction in the movie.


34. One Point O

One Point O
Destination URLDurationIMDb RatingDirectorsWritersLead castsYear
Movie link1h 35m6.0Jeff Renfroe, Marteinn ThorssonJeff Renfroe, Marteinn ThorssonJeremy Sisto, Richard Rees2004

One Point O is another often-overlooked timeless classic with a talented cast, including Jeremy Sisto, Deborah Kara Unger, Bruce Payne, and Udo Kier. This movie revolves around Simon J., a computer programmer living in his apartment.

His life takes a turn when he receives an unexpected empty package, which becomes the first of many peculiar events. The movie amazingly blends themes commonly found in hacking movies, including paranoia towards powerful corporations and an ultra-technological society, with isolation elements and nightmarish atmospheres of Kafkaesque storytelling.


35. Minority Report

Minority Report
Destination URLDurationIMDb RatingDirectorWritersLead castYear
Movie link2h 25m7.6Steven SpielbergScott Frank, Jon Cohen, Philip K. DickTom Cruise2002

A premise takes center stage in this high-octane action film helmed by Spielberg and starring Tom Cruise. The movie explores law enforcement’s ability to apprehend and imprison criminals before committing a crime. The movie further delves into philosophical questions about technology integration and monitoring human habits.

The Spielberg-Cruise collaboration also raises questions about privacy invasion and the ethical implications of using advanced AI.


36. The Signal

The Signal
Destination URLDurationIMDb RatingDirectorWritersLead castsYear
Movie link1h 37m6.0William EubankCarlyle Eubank, William Eubank, David FrigerioBrenton Thwaites, Olivia Cooke, Laurence Fishburne2014

Featuring a talented cast, including Brenton Thwaites, Olivia Cooke, and Beau Knapp as MTI students, this movie takes a different turn when a strange hacker starts sending them emails during their road trip to California.

Although hacking plays a smaller role in The Signal, its significance lies in the students’ ability to counterattack by tracing the hacker’s position. The movie highlights the notion that those targeted by hackers can gain the skills and knowledge to turn the tables.


37. Anon

Anon
Destination URLDurationIMDb RatingDirectorWriterLead castsYear
Movie link1h 40m6.1Andrew NiccolAndrew NiccolClive Owen, Afiya Bennett2018

Anon thrusts viewers into a future where privacy is but a distant memory. In this movie, every citizen must bear an implant in their eyes, always recording their lives. Clive Owen delivers a compelling performance as a troubled officer who stumbles upon a woman, apparently immune to the implants.


38. Office Space

Office Space
Destination URLDurationIMDb RatingDirectorWriterLead castsYear
Movie link1h 29m7.6Mike JudgeMike JudgeRon Livingston, Jennifer Aniston1999

Office Space finds its place on this list as a work-life satire set in a late-90s software company. Although the film offers a humorous critique of corporate culture, it also introduces a caper that drives the narrative.

Three disgruntled employees hatch a plan to seek revenge by infecting the accounting system with a virus and embezzling a huge chunk of money. This movie proves that information security cannot be guaranteed even with technological safeguards in place.


39. Who Am I

Who Am I
Destination URLDurationIMDb RatingDirectorWriterLead castsYear
Movie link1h 42m7.5Baran bo OdarJantje Friese, Baran bo OdarTom Schilling, Elyas M’Barek2014

Who Am I centers around Benjamin Engel (Tom Schilling), a talented hacker from Berlin whose life takes a dramatic turn as he connects with a fellow hacker, Max (Elyas M’Barek). This encounter sets off a series of events that change Benjamin’s trajectory.

The movie explores the hacking world, highlighting both advantages and disadvantages. It also showcases various cybernetic techniques, including phishing, showcasing the intricacies of the hacker’s craft. Interestingly, the movie also goes beyond purely digital tactics, highlighting the hacker’s craft.


40. Golden Eye

Golden Eye
Destination URLDurationIMDb RatingDirectorWritersLead castsYear
Movie link2h 10m7.2Martin CampbellIan Fleming, Michael France, Jeffrey CainePierce Brosnan, Sean Bean, Alan Cumming1995

GoldenEye expertly blends the world of espionage with the intrigue and danger of hacking. Through Boris Grishenko’s character, the movie emphasizes cyber threats’ potential power and repercussions, highlighting the evolving landscape and warfare in the digital age.

In this thrilling spy movie, hacking plays a vital role through the character “Boris Grishenko,” portrayed by Alan Cumming. Boris, a computer programmer turned hacker, is a secondary antagonist working for Trevelyan (Sean Bean). His technological prowess proves important as he gains control and operates a powerful weapon through his computer.


41. The Fifth Estate

The Fifth Estate
Destination URLDurationIMDb RatingDirectorWriterLead castsYear
Movie link2h 8m6.2Bill CondonDaniel Domscheit-Berg, David Leigh, Luke HardingBenedict Cumberbatch, Daniel Bruhl2013

The Fifth Estate provides a fictionalized account of the rise and consequences surrounding WikiLeaks, a website dedicated to leaking classified information while safeguarding the anonymity of its sources. 

Although it may take some creative liberties with historical accuracy, the film effectively showcases the manipulation of information security and the potential gains it can have for personal and political motives.


42. Tron

Tron
Destination URLDurationIMDb RatingDirectorWritersLead castYear
Movie link1h 36m6.7Steven LisbergerSteven Lisberger, Bonnie MacBird, Charles S. HaasJeff Bridges1982

Tron, a beloved sci-fi classic from the 1980s, thrusts viewers into a world where Jeff Bridges portrays “Kevin Flynn,” a former video game developer and video arcade owner. When Flynn attempts to hack his former employer’s system, he finds himself unexpectedly in the software itself.

Tron introduces the concept of cyberspace, an alternate reality made of intricate codes and software. Also, Flynn’s character presents hacking-like abilities as he penetrates the corporation’s system.


43. eXistenZ

ExistenZ
Destination URLDurationIMDb RatingDirectorWritersLead castsYear
Movie link1h 37m6.8David CronenbergDavid CronenbergJude Law, Jennifer Jason Leigh1999

“eXistenZ” combines David Cronenberg’s horror with important sci-fi elements. The movie stars Jennifer Jason Leigh as the lead, playing “Allegra Geller,” a game designer. eXistenZ explores a futuristic society where one plays games by connecting game pods to the spine

Notably, the hacking techniques used in the movie are similar to the ones utilized in The Matrix. However, in eXistenZ, it is the human body rather than computers.


FAQs

Hacking is one of the least accurate aspects of moviemaking, leading to jokes among IT professionals, cybersecurity experts, and even hobbyists into coding. For those who know Hackerman from Kung Fury, you know what we’re talking about.

Of course not! You don’t need any technical knowledge to enjoy hacking series and movies. Although some movies delve into technical details, they are designed to engage a wide audience and offer entertainment through compelling visuals, stories, and themes.

It’s a possibility. Often, hacking flicks are primarily works of fiction created for entertainment purposes. While they may expose the complicated aspects of hacking, they may also highlight such activities’ legal and ethical consequences. However, it is noteworthy to remember that hacking without proper authorization is prohibited and may have severe legal consequences.

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Ademilade Shodipe Dosunmu

Ademilade Shodipe Dosunmu

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Ademola is a versatile and resourceful content writer specializing in copywriting, technical writing, security practices education, compelling storytelling, and in-depth research. He has edited different types of content for multiple organizations. Having written about TV shows and series for over 3 years, Ademilade strives to create high-quality content consistently. Ademilade watches his favorite episodes or plays Valorant when not writing.

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