Webmaster (1998)
In a grim cyber-future, hacker J.B. (Lars Bom) works as a “webmaster,” defending networks for powerful corporations in exchange for survival. When he witnesses a murder involving a corporate executive, he becomes entangled in a conspiracy that forces him to fight both in the real and virtual worlds. Directed by Danish filmmaker Thomas Borch Nielsen, Webmaster (also known as Skyggen) was one of Denmark’s early ventures into cyberpunk cinema. The film used stark lighting, practical effects, and low-budget ingenuity to build a gritty, analog-futuristic world. Despite limited international exposure, it gained cult recognition for its raw aesthetic and minimalist approach to digital dystopia.
Westworld (1973)
In a high-tech amusement park, guests pay to experience lifelike adventures in themed worlds populated by humanoid robots. When a system malfunction causes the androids to rebel, one guest (Richard Benjamin) must fight to survive against a relentless gunslinger (Yul Brynner). Written and directed by Michael Crichton, Westworld was groundbreaking for its time, becoming one of the first films to use digital image processing for the android's point of view. Produced on a budget of around US$1.2 million, it combined Western and sci-fi genres in a way that deeply influenced future AI narratives. The film's success led to a sequel (Futureworld) and inspired the acclaimed HBO series decades later.
Wired to Kill (1986)
In a crime-ridden near-future, teenager Steve (David Naughton) and his girlfriend Rebecca (Emily Longstreth) build a robot named Winston to help them take down a sadistic gang that’s terrorizing their city. With makeshift tech and DIY weapons, they fight back in a collapsing society. Directed by Frank Schaeffer, Wired to Kill was originally titled Booby Trap and was produced on a low budget. It reflects a raw, garage-style cyberpunk aesthetic, complete with scavenged robotics and urban decay. Though relatively obscure, the film has gained a small cult following for its grimy visuals and punk energy that echo early post-apocalyptic cyberpunk themes.