Ever since Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies were introduced, there has been more and more interest in movies about these digital assets. A growing number of documentaries and films about Bitcoin and its effects on the global economy have come out in the past few years as a result, and are still being released to this date. But what are the best crypto movies to watch? Here are 4 films we think you should watch if you’re searching for a fun approach to learn more about this world.
1. Bitcoin: The End of Money as We Know It (2015)
Torsten Hoffmann & Michael Watchulonis
Bitcoin: The End of Money As We Know It will walk you through the evolution of money, tracing the history of money from the ancient world to the modern trading floors of Wall Street. If you don’t yet understand how Bitcoin work, this 2015 film is a great introduction on the controversial currency, as it does exactly what it sets out to do: give you a “crash course” on the subject.
The documentary looks at the history of money, as well as how central banks and other financial institutions operate, and how the government affects inflation and currency printing. A number of experts, including Vitalik Buterin, Roger Ver, and other prominent industry players, offer their opinions on the potential for cryptocurrencies to fundamentally alter the nature of economy. It also offers a thorough examination of how blockchain technology might transform finance and business, blockchain web wallet being one of the examples.
If you’re interested in learning more about how money functions and what role it plays in modern society, you should definitely watch this documentary.
2. Crypto (2019)
John Stalberg Jr.
This crime thriller tells the tale of Martin “Marty” Duran (Kurt Russell), a young anti-money laundering analyst at a bank who works to uncover and thwart an international cryptocurrency money laundering conspiracy. When Marty first suspects a prospective client of having violated some rules, telling his manager gets him demoted to a very small branch in his hometown of Elba (NY). However, going back home gives Marty the chance to reunite with his friends, such as tech genius Earl (Jeremie Harris), and make new acquaintances, such as Penelope (Malaya Rivera Drew), who owns an art gallery. And it’s there that our protagonists begin to uncover a scheme that goes beyond what they had imagine, and where the Russian mafia is also involved. Needless to say, things get more complicated the more secrets they uncover, until Marty finds himself face to face with some very powerful enemies.
Crypto has a very compelling premise, but it suffers in its execution, as the pace isn’t always great and the characters aren’t hugely well developed. Not only that, but the conspiracy itself is not as complex as it could have been, and it’s also been a few years since its release, which certainly didn’t help. But behind a flawed film lies an interesting message about the dangers of cryptocurrencies, their abuse potential, and the need for more control and regulation of such currencies. What’s more, it has an all-star cast including Beau Knapp, Luke Hemsworth, and Alexis Bledel.
3. The Rise and Rise of Bitcoin (2014)
Nicholas Mross
This 2014 feature-length documentary explores the history of cryptocurrencies and how they came to be recognized as a global phenomenon. What makes it a compelling watch is that it’s told from the point of view of a computer programmer named Daniel Mross, who also happens to be the director’s brother. In fact, the idea from the film came when Daniel realized that he struggled to understand the world of cryptocurrency, and the brothers decided to find out more about it and document their research. Ultimately, the film explores the tales and motives of early Bitcoin adopters and miners, while also looks at the exponential growth of the currency and giving us a snapshot of its pros and cons.
After a successful premiere at the 2014 Tribeca Film Festival, the surprisingly entertaining documentary is now available to stream on Fubo TV, and it’s still a must watch if you’d like to have a more comprehensive look into the bitcoin world.
4. Banking on Bitcoin (2016)
Christopher Cannucciari
This 2016 documentary examines the cryptocurrency industry and how it can transform our financial institutions. The movie, which was directed by Christopher Cannucciari, follows a number of well-known figures in the cryptocurrency industry, from CEO companies to reporters, scientists, inventors and entrepreneurs, as they debate the consequences of this technology. Not only does the film offer a thorough examination of the cryptocurrency industry, but it delves into technical and cultural facets of this technology, with a specific focus on the battle between capitalism and utopic ideals. If you’re looking for a more philosophical watch, then Banking on Bitcoin is for you!
