4 bitcoin documentary must-sees
Since the very first transaction took place in January 2009, bitcoin has sparked the world’s curiosity in some big ways. We’ve put together a list of some of (what we think are) the most comprehensive newbie-friendly bitcoin documentaries that will not only keep you interested, but make you the grand champion and absolute go-to among your friends for bitcoin trivia (…and we think that’s pretty cool).
The Rise and Rise of Bitcoin
Why we like it: It takes an unapologetically optimistic look at bitcoin’s benefits and its potential for financial disruption.
A must-see, if: you’re completely new to bitcoin and want to dip your feet in for the first time.
Premiering at the 2014 Tribeca Film Festival, The Rise and Rise of Bitcoin was the first time bitcoin took center stage on the big screen. It provides a glimpse into the lives of several early adopters and their devotion to this new form of money. The film is a fantastic beginner-friendly primer that includes an easily digestible explanation of bitcoin. Focusing mainly on the positives, you’ll discover its potential to empower the unbanked and as a tool for financial independence.
Bitcoin: The End of Money (as we know it)
Why we like it: It’s a super informative crash course in socio-economic history, all packed into one hour.
A must-see, if: you’re curious about how inflation works and how bitcoin addresses the weaknesses of central banking.
The End of Money takes you through a journey about the entire history and evolution of money. By identifying different forms of currency throughout history, the link between money and power is highlighted as a precursor to political and financial corruption. You’ll gain insight into the reason behind economic booms and busts, how government currencies are created, and how bitcoin was born as a reaction to all of this.
The Bitcoin Gospel
Why we like it: The film’s geo-focused perspective, which includes Ver’s advocacy in Japan, the self-described “world’s most popular bitcoin-friendly city,” and the reality of bitcoin mining in China.
A must-see, if: you’re curious about what it’s like living a bitcoin life 24/7.
If you’ve ever been curious about how a bitcoin transaction takes place, this Dutch-produced documentary kicks off with prominent bitcoin angel investor Roger Ver explaining the basics of how it all works. The Bitcoin Gospel is a powerful up close look at Ver’s life dedicated to advocating for bitcoin. It also looks at the industry of mining and includes insights from others including Andreas Antonopoulos.
Banking on Bitcoin
Why we like it: Banking on Bitcoin illustrates bitcoin’s resilience, just how diverse the bitcoin community is, and why that’s ultimately a very positive thing.
A must-see, if: you’re curious about the innovation-regulation debate, and where a variety of early adopters stand.
If you’ve already watched The Rise and Rise of Bitcoin, you’ll have the chance to catch up with some of those same notable early adopters here. This recent documentary looks back at big ups and downs since bitcoin’s emergence over 8 years ago. The question of whether a balance between innovation and regulation can be achieved is a big theme throughout. Banking on Bitcoin illustrates the diverse perspectives on these topics, and how the featured pioneers have helped shape the bitcoin community today.
If you haven’t seen all (or any) of the above, we definitely recommend grabbing a snack (and maybe some Club Mate like our dev, Sjors, always keeps fully stocked) and making plans for a bitcoin movie night in. Did we miss any of your favorites? Let us know in the comments!
Originally published at https://blockchain-blog.ghost.io on February 28, 2017.
4 bitcoin documentary must-sees was originally published in @blockchain on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.
