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Killswitch is a documentary film released in 2014, directed by Ali Akbarzadeh and co-produced by Akbarzadeh and Jeff Horn. The film is a thought-provoking exploration of the underbelly of the Internet and the existential threats posed to it by governments and corporations seeking to control and monetize it. The movie features insightful commentary from some of the leading voices in the field of Internet activism, including Lawrence Lessig, Tim Wu, Peter Ludlow, and Aaron Swartz.

At its core, the film centers around the concept of net neutrality, or the idea that the Internet should remain an open and accessible platform for all. As the movie shows, this ideal is in danger of being eroded by powerful corporations that seek to create a tiered Internet, where access to certain websites is restricted or even outright blocked. Such a scenario would fundamentally alter the nature of the Internet, turning it into a tool of control rather than a vehicle for free expression and creativity.

The film traces the evolution of the Internet from its early days as a decentralized network of academic and government institutions to its current state as a heavily commercialized platform dominated by a handful of powerful corporations. Interviews with experts such as Tim Wu and Lawrence Lessig help to shed light on the legal and regulatory frameworks that govern the Internet and the ways in which these have evolved over time. In particular, the film highlights the influence of the Telecommunications Act of 1996, which paved the way for the consolidation of the Internet industry and the subsequent rise of companies like Comcast and Verizon.

One of the most compelling segments of the film focuses on the life and legacy of Aaron Swartz, a young Internet activist who was tragically hounded to his death by the US Justice Department. Swartz was a tireless champion of net neutrality and online freedom, and his untimely death served as a wake-up call to many in the Internet community about the gravity of the issues at stake. The movie pays tribute to Swartz's legacy and underscores his message that the Internet is not just a tool, but a vital component of human freedom and autonomy.

Throughout the film, the directors use a mix of expert interviews and archival footage to create a compelling narrative about the struggle for control of the Internet. They also employ stunning visual effects and cutting-edge animation to bring the complex technical concepts at the heart of the film to life in a way that is both accessible and engaging. The result is a thought-provoking and deeply inspiring work that casts a critical eye on the future of the Internet.

Overall, Killswitch is a deeply informative and engaging exploration of the issues at stake in the ongoing struggle for control of the Internet. The film succeeds in raising important questions about the role of government and corporations in shaping the future of the Internet, and it offers a passionate call to action for anyone who cares about preserving the open and democratic nature of this powerful tool. Whether you are a seasoned Internet activist or a casual user, Killswitch is a must-see film that will leave you both informed and inspired.

Killswitch is a 2014 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 12 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.7.