Tech & future documentaries
The Secret Genius of Modern Life
Some of the most familiar, useful technology that has transformed modern life has a fascinating, baffling backstory. In this jaw-dropping documentary, mathematician Hannah Fry reveals the miraculous components that create current tech. Bank cards have a sinister origin, a Hollywood star was involved in future virtual assistant development and waffles helped to improve the soles of your sneakers!
Louis Theroux: Forbidden America
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
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.