**The Ultimate List: 5 Best Movies About Hackers, Ranked**

The world of hacking has always fascinated us - the thrill of exploring the uncharted territories of cyberspace, the rush of outsmarting the system, and the allure of uncovering hidden secrets. In this article, we'll delve into the best movies about hackers that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

**1. "Track Down" (2000)**

This movie is a thrilling adaptation of a real-life story about hacker Kevin Mitnick, who was hunted down by the FBI led by computer security expert Tsutomu Shimomura. The film takes dramatic liberties with the events and how hacking is performed, but it's still an engaging watch.

With a touch of rogue charm, Skeet Ulrich plays Mitnick as he chases internet challenges through networks that feel primitive by today's standards. But what makes this movie stand out is its cat-and-mouse dynamic between Shimomura and the law enforcement officers trying to anticipate Mitnick's next move.

**2. "War Games" (1983)**

For a nostalgic trip into the past, consider watching "War Games", a film from 1983 that captures the allure of early computer hacking culture and combines it with real-world security anxieties. Young Mathew Broderick plays David Lightman, a bright high schooler whose curiosity accidentally leads him into one of the most dangerous computer systems in the world.

What sets "War Games" apart from other movies is its reliance on compelling narrative, curiosity, and social engineering to drive the story. It's more about the human element of hacking than about the technology itself, making it a timeless classic.

**3. "Ghost in the Shell" (1995)**

This anime masterpiece tells a story about hacking not only networks but also human minds and identities. Set in a futuristic cyberpunk version of Japan, the film follows Major Motoko Kusanagi as she tracks down a mysterious hacker known as "Puppet Master".

Unlike most movies of its time, "Ghost in the Shell" doesn't treat hacking as flashy lines of code but rather as deeply personal. The Puppet Master's ability to infiltrate cyberbrains and alter memories raises questions about what makes humans human if our memories can be altered.

**4. "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo" (2011)**

David Fincher's adaptation of Stieg Larsson's novel is a dark, serious, and realistic take on hacking. At its heart is Lisbeth Salander, a punk/goth hacker who uses her skills to uncover buried truths.

Unlike most modern thrillers, "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo" treats hacking as investigative muscle - methodical, cerebral, and integral to uncovering hidden secrets. It's less about cracking impossible firewalls in seconds and more about relentlessly following data trails.

**5. "Hackers" (1995)**

This cult classic is an unforgettable ride into the world of cyberpunk, with its over-the-top visuals, quirky characters, and unrealistic hacking wars. The movie follows Dade Murphy, a teenage tech prodigy who uncovers a corporate conspiracy involving global sabotage.

While "Hackers" may be full of cliches, it captures what it feels like to be a digital outcast - a silent hero behind the screen fighting for a righteous cause. It's a movie that invites you to join the flashy hacker party in the golden days of the internet.

Whether you're a fan of intense thrillers or nostalgic trips into the past, these movies about hackers will keep you on the edge of your seat and make you think deeply about the world we live in today.