Startup.com (2001)

"Startup.com" is an enthralling exploration of the dot-com era, where friendships are tested against the backdrop of a rapidly changing digital landscape and dreams of meteoric success. This riveting tale centers around long-time friends Kaleil Isaza Tuzman and Tom Herman, who in their late twenties seek to cash in on the dot-com boom. United by an ambitious dream since their teenage years, they devise an innovative idea: GovWorks.com, a web interface that facilitates business between citizens and municipal governments. The story chronicles the birth and evolution of GovWorks.com from its inception in May 1999, when it was but a concept, through to December 2000. The duo's journey is marked by a relentless pursuit of venture capital, relying on their idea's strength and the promise of a revolutionary website which often seems like an afterthought, delegated to the hired workforce. Yet, the path to riches is far from smooth as they grapple with the non-commitment of a third partner, Chieh Cheung, the competition's better or earlier marketed products, and the unpredictable whims of the economy. As they navigate these hurdles, the film brings to the fore the strain their single-minded focus puts on their personal lives. Tom's relationship with his young daughter, Tia Herman, and Kaleil's bond with his girlfriend, Dora Glottman, are stretched thin. However, the biggest toll is on their own friendship, which had always been imbalanced with Kaleil as the self-proclaimed alpha. Amidst millions in venture capital, media spotlight, and soaring expectations, their friendship and business venture hang in the balance. The question that looms large is: will their audacious dream buckle under its own weight, or will their friendship falter under the unyielding pressures of the business world? Dive into "Startup.com" for a firsthand look at this high-stakes journey through the heart of the dot-com bubble.

Startup.com is a documentary movie featuring Kaleil Isaza Tuzman and directed by Jehane Noujaim.

Startup.com is currently streaming for free (ad-supported) on The Roku Channel.