The Great Hack

| 2019

Directed by: Karim Amer, Jehane Noujaim

Main Plot

The Great Hack explores the impact of data privacy and manipulation in the digital age, focusing on the Cambridge Analytica scandal. The film delves into how personal data harvested from social media platforms is used to influence political campaigns and shape public opinion. Through interviews and investigative reporting, it reveals the intricate web of data collection and the strategies employed to target voters with tailored messages. The narrative highlights the ethical implications of this data-driven approach, showcasing the power dynamics between technology companies, political entities, and the general public. As the story unfolds, it raises critical questions about the consequences of sacrificing privacy for convenience and the potential for technology to undermine democracy. The film serves as a cautionary tale about the pervasive nature of data exploitation and the urgent need for greater awareness and regulation in the digital landscape.

Characters

  • Brittany Kaiser is a former Cambridge Analytica executive who becomes a whistleblower, revealing the company's role in manipulating data for political influence.
  • David Carroll is a professor who challenges data privacy practices, highlighting the misuse of personal data and advocating for transparency and accountability in digital platforms.
  • Paul-Olivier Dehaye is a data privacy advocate who exposes the misuse of personal data, highlighting ethical concerns and influencing the narrative around digital privacy and manipulation.

Ending Explained

The Great Hack concludes by highlighting the profound implications of data privacy and manipulation in the digital age. The film follows the Cambridge Analytica scandal, revealing how personal data was harvested from social media to influence elections and public opinion. In the final moments, the narrative emphasizes the ongoing struggle for accountability and transparency in the tech industry. Key events include the testimonies of whistleblowers and the investigation into the unethical practices of data exploitation. The film culminates in a call to action, urging viewers to recognize their role in the digital landscape and the importance of safeguarding personal information. It illustrates how the manipulation of data can undermine democracy and individual autonomy, connecting to the broader theme of the power dynamics between technology companies and the public. As the credits roll, the film leaves the audience with a sense of urgency regarding the need for reform in data privacy laws and a collective responsibility to demand ethical practices from tech giants. The ending reinforces the idea that while the battle against data exploitation is ongoing, awareness and activism are crucial in reclaiming control over personal data and ensuring a more equitable digital future.

Karim Amer Jehane Noujaim Documentary Biography History Brittany Kaiser David Carroll Paul-Olivier Dehaye