The Internet Must Go (2013)

In the 2013 docufiction short film, The Internet Must Go, we journey into the heart of a digital battleground.

Directed by Gena Konstantinakos, this film tackles the net neutrality debate—a topic that affects us all, even if we’re not tech-savvy.

However, let’s keep it simple. Imagine a world where your Internet service provider (ISP) decides which websites load faster and which ones crawl. Sounds unfair, right?

That’s what net neutrality fights against: ISPs shouldn’t play favorites. They shouldn’t give preferential treatment to certain content over others.

Our protagonist, John Wooley, a fictional market researcher, sets out on a mission. His job? To sell ISPs’ vision of a “faster, cleaner” Internet.

He’s convinced he’s doing something grand. But as he interviews real people—those who depend on net neutrality—he starts to unravel the complexities.

Furthermore, John ventures to North Carolina, where he meets folks who dream of community broadband. These are everyday people, stifled by a lack of reliable Internet. Yet, barriers prevent them from building their own networks.

At the end, John has a change of heart. He leaks his research online, advocating for net neutrality. It’s not just about speed; it’s about fairness.

The Internet isn’t merely a tool; it’s a tapestry that connects us all. In this ever-evolving digital realm, we seek more than just convenience—we seek robust principles that underpin our online world.

So, next time you click a link or stream a video, remember the tale of The Internet Must Go. It’s not just about unlocking secrets; it’s about ensuring a level playing field for all of us. Because in this vast online suite, fairness is the ultimate testament to our digital resilience.