
We Steal Secrets: The Story of WikiLeaks
2013

2012
PGDirector
Brian Knappenberger
Runtime
93 minutes
Average Rating
No ratings yetSynopsis
Takes us inside the world of Anonymous, the radical "hacktivist" collective that has redefined civil disobedience for the digital age. The film explores early hacktivist groups like Cult of the Dead Cow and Electronic Disturbance Theater, then moves to Anonymous' raucous beginnings on the website 4chan. Through interviews with current members, people recently returned from prison or facing trial, writers, academics, activists and major players in various "raids," the documentary traces Anonymous’ evolution from merry pranksters to a full-blown movement with a global reach, the most transformative civil disobedience of our time.
Overall Score
Fair
Category Breakdown
LGBTQ+ Representation
The film lacks explicit depictions of queer narratives or non-cisnormative identities. While digital subcultures are inherently fluid, the documentary maintains a neutral stance without centering LGBTQ+ experiences.
Gender Representation
The narrative focuses on a digital meritocracy that bypasses traditional gender hierarchies. While early 4chan culture is male-dominated, the film emphasizes collective action over established masculine or feminine archetypes.
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Physical identities are frequently obscured by masks and digital avatars, creating a color-blind aesthetic. This anonymity prevents deep intersectional character development despite the film's global scope.
Religious & Cultural Diversity
The documentary provides a profound critique of Western institutional authority and corporate hegemony. It frames digital disruption as a legitimate tool for social justice and modern civil disobedience.
Disability Representation
There is no significant focus on visible or invisible disabilities. The film does not explicitly engage with neurodivergence or physical disability as central themes or character arcs.
Strengths
Areas for Improvement
AI Analysis
We Are Legion offers a sophisticated exploration of identity politics within a post-modern, digital context. It succeeds by applying an oppressor/oppressed framework to state and corporate entities rather than traditional social groups. While specific identity representation remains moderate due to the obscured nature of the subjects, the film's strength lies in its systemic critique. It challenges the sanctity of legal and religious institutions through the lens of digital vigilantism. Ultimately, the documentary prioritizes the disruption of traditional Western hierarchies, making it a study of power dynamics in the digital age.

2013

2015

2014

2019

2016

2019

2010

2015

2016

2009

2013

2021
No reviews yet. Be the first to share your thoughts on this movie!
Use the rating form above to leave a star rating and optional review.