Automattic has released a free documentary advocating open-source software, user ownership and the open web, warning that closed AI ecosystems and walled gardens threaten the future of the internet.
Automattic has released “Code for the People: The Human Story of the Open Web,” a free 20-minute documentary calling on users to support open-source software and help preserve the open internet. Released online on July 9, the film argues that the digital commons faces growing threats from walled gardens, closed software ecosystems, black-box AI systems and commercial interests that control user data.
Directed by Bao Nguyen, the documentary presents open source as a practical foundation for digital freedom, community collaboration, user ownership and open innovation. It also highlights how Automattic, founded by CEO Matt Mullenweg on open-source principles, continues investing in open-source software even though its contributions benefit competitors.
The film also questions the rise of proprietary AI. During a panel discussion following the New York premiere, Anil Dash, technologist, writer and board member of the Electronic Frontier Foundation, said, “The big AI tools do not practice consent about what they do to the web and what they do to creators and what they do to the rest of the world.” He added that the industry needs many open AI alternatives rather than a handful of dominant platforms.
Paolo Belcastro, Artistic Director of the Domains Maisons at Automattic, said investing in open-source products ultimately delivers better user experiences while strengthening the wider ecosystem through shared innovation.
The documentary also encourages users to own their domain names, build their own web presence and reduce dependence on closed platforms, positioning the open web as a more sustainable and user-controlled future for the internet.
