We Are Legion: The Story of the Hacktivists

We Are Legion: The Story of the Hacktivists (2012) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online

We Are Legion: The Story of the Hacktivists (2012) is a compelling documentary directed by Brian Knappenberger that explores the rise and impact of the hacktivist group Anonymous. The film offers an in-depth look at the group’s origins, activities, and the broader implications of their actions on internet freedom and digital activism. This review will delve into the film’s content, themes, and where to stream, rent, or purchase it online in the United States.

Plot Summary

We Are Legion provides a detailed examination of Anonymous, a decentralized collective of hackers and activists known for their distinctive Guy Fawkes masks and their role in various high-profile cyber actions. The documentary traces the origins of Anonymous from its early days on 4chan, an online forum known for its chaotic and anarchic culture, to its evolution into a global movement with significant influence on digital activism.

The film covers several key events and actions associated with Anonymous, including:

• Operation Chanology: The group’s campaign against the Church of Scientology, which involved a mix of protests and online attacks aimed at challenging the church’s attempts to suppress criticism.
• Support for WikiLeaks: Anonymous’s involvement in defending WikiLeaks and its founder Julian Assange from legal and political pressures.
• Arab Spring: The role of Anonymous in supporting the uprisings in the Middle East by providing technical assistance and promoting freedom of speech.
• Occupy Wall Street: The group’s support for the Occupy movement, which aimed to address economic inequality and corporate influence.

The documentary features interviews with members of Anonymous, activists, and experts, providing a range of perspectives on the group’s impact and controversial tactics. It also explores the legal and ethical issues surrounding hacktivism and the challenges faced by those involved in the movement.

Themes and Analysis

We Are Legion delves into several significant themes:

1. Digital Activism and Freedom: The film examines the role of Anonymous in promoting internet freedom and challenging censorship. It highlights the ways in which digital activism can influence global events and support marginalized voices.
2. Anonymity and Identity: The concept of anonymity is central to the film, exploring how it empowers individuals to engage in activism while maintaining privacy. It also addresses the potential for anonymity to facilitate both positive and negative actions.
3. Ethics and Legality: The documentary raises questions about the ethics of hacktivism and the legality of the group’s actions. It examines the tension between the desire for social justice and the legal consequences of cyber attacks.
4. Impact and Legacy: The film assesses the impact of Anonymous on contemporary activism and its role in shaping the discourse around digital rights. It considers the legacy of the group and its influence on future movements.

Brian Knappenberger’s direction provides a clear and engaging narrative, balancing the technical aspects of hacktivism with the broader social and political context. The documentary’s use of interviews, archival footage, and visual storytelling effectively captures the complexity of the subject matter.

Where to Watch We Are Legion: The Story of the Hacktivists (2012) Online

For those interested in watching We Are Legion, there are several options available for streaming, rental, and purchase in the United States.

Streaming Services

1. Amazon Prime Video
   • We Are Legion is available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video. Subscribers can watch the film as part of their subscription or rent it for a lower fee.
2. Hulu
   • The film may also be available for streaming on Hulu, depending on regional licensing agreements and availability.

Rental/Purchase Services

1. Amazon Prime Video
   • The film can be rented or purchased on Amazon Prime Video. Renting typically costs around $3.99, while purchasing it in HD is usually priced at $12.99.
2. Apple iTunes
   • We Are Legion is available for rent or purchase on Apple iTunes. Renting generally costs $3.99, and purchasing it is around $14.99.
3. Google Play Movies & TV
   • Google Play Movies & TV offers the film for rent or purchase. Pricing is similar to other digital platforms, providing another option for viewers.
4. Vudu
   • Vudu has We Are Legion available for rent or purchase. The prices are comparable to other platforms, and Vudu often has promotions that may offer discounts.
5. YouTube Movies
   • YouTube Movies provides We Are Legion for rent or purchase, with prices typically in line with other digital services.

Conclusion

We Are Legion: The Story of the Hacktivists (2012) is an insightful and engaging documentary that provides a thorough examination of the hacktivist group Anonymous and its impact on digital activism. Directed by Brian Knappenberger, the film offers a balanced perspective on the group’s activities and the broader implications of their actions.

Available for streaming on platforms like Amazon Prime Video and potentially Hulu, and for rental or purchase on services like Amazon, Apple iTunes, Google Play Movies & TV, Vudu, and YouTube Movies, accessing this documentary is convenient and straightforward. Whether you’re interested in digital activism, internet freedom, or the evolving landscape of hacktivism, We Are Legion offers a thought-provoking and informative viewing experience.