Tech & future documentaries

BBC Select's technology documentaries tell the stories of innovation, look to the future and explore potential outcomes of technological growth. Learn more about scientific breakthroughs, technological advancements and their impact on society and human life. From cutting-edge developments in artificial intelligence and the rise of social media to the inside story on tech giants and biographies about Jeff Bezos, Mark Zuckerberg, Elon Musk and more.

Elon Musk – Superhero or Supervillain?

Elon Musk Superhero or Supervillain

His private life, business deals and outspoken social media posts continually hit the headlines, but who is the real Elon Musk? This new Elon Musk documentary explores the life of the Tesla billionaire, space pioneer and tech entrepreneur through intimate interviews with his friends, foes and business associates.

Louis Theroux: Forbidden America

Louis Theroux Forbidden America on BBC Select

Travelling across the United States, acclaimed documentary filmmaker Louis Theroux sees how the internet and social media has impacted some of the most controversial corners of American society. From those promoting far-right ideas, those in a violent and chaotic rap scene and adult film performers claiming victimization by the industry. All use the internet to reach their audience, all push the boundaries of acceptability.

The Instagram Effect

Watch the Instagram Effect on BBC Select

This eye-opening BBC documentary about social media, explores the impact of Instagram- a digital phenomenon that has changed the world we live in.

In just ten years, Instagram has gained over a billion users, shaping culture, trends and the way we live our lives. But the human impact of social media is increasingly being questioned and governments are looking to regulate social media networks.

This revealing BBC Instagram documentary follows on from whistleblower Frances Haugen’s disclosure of internal company research. Haugen and other former Facebook and Instagram insiders, many speaking on camera for the first time, discuss life inside the company and pivotal moments such as Facebook’s acquisition of Instagram in 2012.

The social media platform’s influence on body image and self-harm is also explored through powerful contributions from three users who describe how Instagram has impacted their lives. They talk frankly about eating disorders, undertaking dangerous cosmetic surgery and being influenced by anti-recovery communities who promote self-harm.