Revolution OS, my new favorite geek documentary
I recently purchased a copy of Revolution OS, the documentary about the history of Linux and the GNU project. It’s available on DVD-ROM from Think Geek, and if you are an open source fan, it’s a neat thing to have.
There’s extensive interview footage with the likes of Richard M. Stallman, Linus Torvalds, Brian Behlendorf, Burce Perens and others. It’s so much fun to see the founders of GNU, Linux, Apache, and the Open Source Definition answering questions that I have had in my mind about the origin and impetus of the open source/free software movements.
I viewed it twice the first day I got it. The second time through I realized that I now have to some stuff to chew on regarding the open source licenses. Certain things Bruce Perens said are making me reevaluate certain stances I have held for a few years about which open source OS in which I prefer to invest myself.
So at this point some of you are curious about what in the world I am trying to say. Not so much an edge-of-the-seat curiosity as a what-is-this curiosity. More to follow.
My favoite part of the film (yes, my husband made me watch) was when they asked Eric S. Raymond the question concerning if his support of Free Software was akin to Communism. The look on E. Raymond’s face is priceless! I have never seen such a perfect picture of insult, anger, and indignation all wrapped up in a single facial expression! He even holds it for a while so you have a chance to admire. I take it the answer is a resounding “no.” I got that loud and clear. Free Software/Open Source does NOT = Communism. Whew! Got it now. Good to know.
While we’re on the topic of facial expressions . . . Burce Perens has some facinating ones. Great to watch. Kept me awake while I was being a good wife and supporting my hubby in his new film purchase. (Love you, honey!)
Comment by The Wife — October 14, 2004 @ 11:25 pm