State of Surveillance (2016)

State of Surveillance, a documentary released in 2016, dives into the intricate and ever-evolving world of government-sponsored surveillance.

In a post-9/11 age, where digital privacy hangs in the balance, this documentary unfolds with stark reminders of the surveillance state we inhabit.

Edward Snowden, the controversial NSA whistleblower, serves as the central figure in this thought-provoking exploration.

As you read this, your government could be thumbing through your contacts, reviewing your text messages, and uploading your stored photos without your knowledge. The implications are both awe-inspiring and perilous.

Our suite of digital devices—cell phones, laptops, and more—acts as pathways through which institutions can track our every move.

Snowden, sitting across from VICE host Shane Smith, dissects a common cellular phone, revealing how its innards facilitate surveillance. But it doesn’t stop there.

Drone surveillance, once reserved for foreign soil, now hovers over our own cities. These drones, not merely designed to enhance security, have been deployed during citizen-led protests, perpetuating a stark realm of control.

The U.S. government’s dominance over privately owned digital devices was laid bare after the San Bernardino terrorist shootings.

They hacked the perpetrator’s phone, a capability they’ve long possessed. Snowden’s revelations serve as a stark reminder that apathy and ignorance will only erode our rights further.

State of Surveillance extends beyond borders. VICE travels to Russia, where Snowden resides safely, to unveil the secrets of government surveillance.

The U.S. isn’t alone; other nations grapple with similar complexities. The tapestry of surveillance is woven with threads of fear, control, and secrecy.

This documentary underscores the need for an informed and vocal public. It’s about human endurance and the delicate balance between security and freedom.