Startup.com

This documentary chronicles the rise and fall of the dot-com startup GovWorks.com during the internet boom of the late 1990s. It follows the ambitious journey of its founders, particularly J.P. Thieriot and Tom Herman, as they navigate the volatile world of venture capital, rapid growth, and intense pressure to succeed. The film captures the initial excitement and optimism, followed by the harsh realities and eventual collapse of the company.

Startup.com was widely acclaimed by critics for its intimate and unflinching look at the dot-com bubble's excesses and the human drama behind a failed startup. Reviewers praised its compelling narrative, its capturing of a specific cultural moment, and its exploration of ambition, friendship, and the often-brutal nature of the tech industry.

• A compelling and often heartbreaking look at the dot-com era's hubris.

• The documentary excels at capturing the intense pressure and personal toll of startup life.

• Offers a raw and insightful portrayal of ambition and failure in the tech world.

Google audience: Google users largely praised the documentary for its realistic portrayal of the intense pressures and emotional rollercoaster of founding a startup, particularly during the dot-com boom. Many found the film to be a captivating and insightful look into the dynamics of business, friendship, and the eventual fallout when ventures fail.

Nominated for the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival (2001).

Director Chris Smith and his crew gained unprecedented access to the company and its founders, filming for over two years, which allowed them to capture the full arc of GovWorks.com's dramatic rise and fall.