The documentary “Code for the People,” funded by Automattic, argues that the open-source movement is essential to preventing the consolidation of the internet into corporate-controlled “walled gardens.” Directed by Bao Nguyen, the 20-minute film highlights the philosophy behind open-source software and encourages users to reclaim digital autonomy through domain ownership and decentralized technology.
Why the Open Web Faces a Crisis of Control
The internet is increasingly dominated by black-box AI systems and platforms that restrict user data, according to the principles outlined in “Code for the People.” The film, which premiered July 1 at the Crosby Street Hotel in New York, asserts that commercial interests currently threaten the vitality of the digital commons.
Technologist and Electronic Frontier Foundation board member Anil Dash argues that users are becoming aware of the risks associated with closed software stacks. During a post-screening panel, Dash noted that consumers are beginning to prefer paying for open-source tools to avoid being "trapped" by commercial entities that may extort them or restrict movement between platforms.
How Open-Source AI Offers an Alternative to Monopoly
The rapid rise of large language models has sparked debate over consent and data usage. According to Dash, major AI companies frequently build models using data scraped from the web without the consent of creators. He suggests that the current focus on a few massive, proprietary AI models is a "broken-brained" approach to technology.
Instead, advocates propose a future of many smaller, specialized AI models. By fostering a ecosystem of "mom-and-pop" technology providers, the industry could avoid the dangers of a single-provider monopoly. This mirrors the diversity of the physical world, where consumers benefit from a wide variety of independent businesses rather than relying on one monolithic provider.
Director Bao Nguyen recalled that he once had a cut of “Code for the People” that was around three hours, but he eventually made the film more digestible for people discussing dense matters.
Why Owning Your Domain Matters
One of the most practical ways to preserve an open internet is through personal domain ownership. Paolo Belcastro, artistic director of the Domains Maisons at Automattic, describes a domain as a piece of "internet land" that grants users independence.
By owning a domain, individuals ensure their digital presence is not tethered to the whims of a single host or social media platform. Eric Binnion, payments engineering lead at Automattic, suggests that even a simple "link in bio" landing page on a personal domain serves as a vital foothold for anyone looking to establish an independent presence on the web.
The Role of For-Profit Companies in Open Source
A recurring question in the tech industry is how for-profit companies like Automattic—the firm behind WordPress and Tumblr—can sustain a commitment to open-source ideals. Belcastro explains that the strategy relies on investing in user experience.
“You cannot convince people to use open-source software because it gives them freedom or because it gives them ownership,” Belcastro said during the panel discussion. “At the end of the day, people are looking for convenience.” By building a superior product, Automattic aims to prove that open-source tools can compete with, and often outperform, closed commercial alternatives.
Establishing a personal domain and a basic landing page is a way for users to control their digital destiny and claim their own space on the open web, a process that Eric Binnion noted can be done in about five minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main goal of “Code for the People”?
The documentary aims to educate the public on the philosophy of open-source code and encourage users to support decentralized, open-web technologies over closed, corporate-controlled platforms.
Who directed “Code for the People”?
The film was directed by award-winning filmmaker Bao Nguyen, known for his work on “Be Water” and “The Greatest Night in Pop.”
How can I watch the documentary?
“Code for the People: The Human Story of the Open Web” is available to watch for free online at codeforthepeople.com beginning July 9.
Why does Anil Dash criticize current AI development?
Dash argues that big AI companies often operate closed systems and fail to practice consent regarding the data they scrape from creators and the broader web.
Do you own your own domain, or do you rely on social media platforms to host your digital footprint? Share your thoughts on the future of the open web in the comments below.