Welcome back to “Friday Night Movies,” where this week we’re diving into the cyber-suspense of “The Net.” Directed by Irwin Winkler the 1995 movie is a thriller that feels eerily prescient in today’s digital age as the film captures the dawn of the internet era, making it a must-watch for its ahead-of-its-time commentary on privacy, identity theft, and the power of technology. Even all the way back in the day when we had dial up modems screaming at us.
Plot
“The Net” stars Sandra Bullock as Angela Bennett, a computer programmer who stumbles upon a conspiracy that could have catastrophic global implications. Her life spirals out of control when her identity is erased and replaced with a new one that labels her as a criminal. The film deftly combines elements of suspense and technology, creating a tense atmosphere as Angela tries to reclaim her life with the FBI on her tail and a deadly group of cyber-terrorists trying to stop her. As she navigates a world where she can trust no one, Angela must use her technical skills to fight back and expose the conspiracy.
Cast
Sandra Bullock delivers a compelling performance as Angela Bennett, perfectly capturing her transformation from a reclusive tech expert to a fugitive fighting to prove her innocence. Jeremy Northam plays the charming and sinister Jack Devlin, whose deceptive allure pulls Angela into the dangerous web. The supporting cast, including Dennis Miller as Angela’s former therapist and friend, helps to make the high-stakes cyber thriller with emotional ties and relatable dynamics.
Trailer
Reviews
At the time of its release, “The Net” received mixed reviews, but has since been appreciated for its foresight regarding cyber-security threats. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a less than impressive Audience Score of just 44%, reflecting its polarising reception. While its IMDb score suggests a modest appreciation from audiences with 6.0 out of 10. Critics highlighted Bullock’s performance and the film’s suspenseful pacing, though some felt the technology aspects were overplayed — but were they now looking back?
Other Friday Night Movie Recommendations
For those intrigued by the technological thriller aspects of “The Net,” “Minority Report” is another fantastic pick with its blend of future tech and moral questions. “Catch Me If You Can” offers a cat-and-mouse dynamic similar to Angela’s plight but with a real-world twist. Lastly, “Swordfish,” with its own cyber-heist stakes, complements the high-energy tech intrigue of “The Net.”
How To Watch The Net
It’s perfect for a thrilling Friday night, making us ponder just how much control we have over our digital lives.