Key Facts
Automattic, the company behind WordPress, Tumblr, and WooCommerce, has released a short documentary titled 'Code for the People.' Directed by Bao Nguyen, the film premiered on July 1, 2026, at the Crosby Street Hotel in New York and was made available for free online on July 9, 2026. The documentary runs approximately 20 minutes and aims to inspire viewers to defend the open internet.
Details of the Documentary
'Code for the People' combines the personal story of Automattic CEO Matt Mullenweg with a broader philosophy of open-source software. Nguyen, who described himself as a storyteller rather than a technologist, wanted the film to be accessible to a general audience. He noted that many tech films are dystopian, but he aimed for a 'protopian' perspective, offering practical ideas for integrating human values into technology use.
The film features interviews and insights from key figures, including Paolo Belcastro, Anil Dash, and Eric Binnion. During a Q&A session after the premiere, panelists discussed the importance of open-source software and the threats posed by closed systems and AI.
Impact and Significance
The documentary serves as a rallying cry for users to fight for the open internet. Anil Dash, a board member of the Electronic Frontier Foundation, emphasized that users often prefer paying for open-source products to avoid being trapped by commercial software. He also criticized big AI tools for lacking consent regarding how they use web data and creator content.
Paolo Belcastro explained that Automattic invests in open-source products to provide a better user experience, even though competitors also benefit. He argued that convenience and user experience are key drivers for adoption, not just freedom or ownership.
What Readers Should Know
- The film is available for free at codeforthepeople.com.
- Automattic encourages users to own their digital space by purchasing a domain name and creating a presence on the open web.
- The documentary highlights the need for diverse AI options, comparing the current tech landscape to having only one restaurant chain.
FAQ
What is 'Code for the People' about?
It is a short documentary funded by Automattic that tells the story of the company's founding and advocates for protecting the open internet through open-source software.
Who directed the film?
The film was directed by award-winning filmmaker Bao Nguyen, known for 'Be Water' and 'The Greatest Night in Pop'.
When and where was the premiere?
The New York premiere was held on July 1, 2026, at the Crosby Street Hotel. The film was released for free online on July 9, 2026.
What is the main message of the documentary?
The film encourages individuals to support open-source principles and take action to preserve the open internet against closed systems and AI that lack consent.