The Internet's Own Boy, the award-winning documentary from filmmaker Brian Knappenberger that tells the story of programmer and Internet hactivist Aaron Swartz, is now available for pre-order.
Swartz is described by many as a computer / Internet / tech prodigy. He was involved in the development of web feed format RSS and social news site Reddit but ran afoul with authorities in early 2011 when he was charged with breaking-and-entering for allegedly downloading academic journals from JSTOR.
Following a string of legal setbacks and facing a fine of up to $1 million and 35 years in prison, Swartz hanged himself in his Brooklyn apartment. He was posthumously inducted into the Internet Hall of Fame last year and continues to be a source of inspiration for many.
In January 2013, members of Anonymous overtook MIT's website and posted a statement in Swartz's memory. They also called for an overhaul of computer crime laws, claiming the government's prosecution of Swartz was a grotesque miscarriage of justice.
The documentary will be available to rent on Amazon Instant Video, Comcast, DirecTV, iTunes and Vimeo On Demand for $6.99 starting June 27. Additionally, for the first month of release, interested parties will be able to buy the film outright for $9.99 from Vimeo On Demand.
The film will also open in 15 theaters across the country on the same date.