Cryptocurrencies have exploded in popularity during the past ten years, growing from a specialized technological idea to a commonplace financial and cultural phenomenon. Like every zeitgeisty movement, this new “digital gold” was swiftly assimilated into popular culture, including movies, TV shows, and music. But how has the public’s opinion of cryptocurrencies been affected by this integration, and how has this developing digital economy in turn influenced popular culture? Let’s explore the mutually beneficial interaction between cryptocurrencies and popular culture.
Silver Screen Dreams
Early references to cryptocurrencies in Hollywood sometimes portrayed it as a tool for the tech-savvy rogue, highlighting its enigmatic and decentralized character. Crypto was a mirror reflecting cultural opinions regarding this ground-breaking technology, from the 2015 film “Dope”—where Bitcoin played a crucial role in the plot—to the numerous allusions in the television show “Mr. Robot” that highlighted the possibility of decentralized currency in a corporatocracy.
But as popular perception changed, so did movie plots. We started to see films that took a more nuanced and reverent approach to the subject, highlighting blockchain’s promise and criticizing the current banking system.
Television Tidbits
Television was not far behind. While “Silicon Valley” explored the idea of a decentralized internet fueled by bitcoin, shows like “The Big Bang Theory” devoted entire episodes to the search for lost Bitcoin wallets. These all-too-frequently amusing comments were crucial in demystifying cryptography for a larger audience and incorporating it into everyday conversations at coffee shops and dinner tables.
In-depth exploration of the cryptocurrency industry has been made possible in large part by the documentary genre. Docuseries that examine the pioneers of cryptocurrency, the underlying technology, and its potential to transform a variety of industries, from finance to supply chains, have been commissioned by platforms like Netflix.
Melodies of Money
Music has always been a mirror of the times, and this hasn’t changed in the age of cryptocurrency. A number of well-known musicians have made references to Bitcoin and other digital assets, either to celebrate newfound wealth, criticize a materialistic culture, or highlight the revolutionary potential of the technology.
Furthermore, NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens) released by musicians as albums or singles have had a direct impact on the music industry. Through blockchain technology-verified digital assets, musicians now have a new way to sell their work and engage with fans.
The Feedback Loop
Pop culture allusions not only reflect societal perceptions and beliefs, but also significantly influence them. Every reference to cryptocurrencies, whether in a joke or a plot, introduces it to new audiences and confirms its usefulness and legitimacy.
On the other hand, the industry itself adapts and changes as cryptocurrency gets more ingrained in mainstream culture. The distinction between entertainment and crypto-economics is becoming increasingly hazy, from celebrities starting their own token sales to movies being financed by ICOs (Initial Coin Offerings).
