In The Italian Job (2003), computer hacker Lyle is nicknamed Napster.
Lyle, played by Seth Green, is a member of Charlie Croker’s robbery team. His technical skills help the group manipulate traffic systems, monitor communications, and coordinate the escape after the theft of gold in Venice. The nickname “Napster” refers to his claim that he was the original creator of the file-sharing program Napster, although the film treats that boast humorously rather than as a central biographical fact.
The movie is a remake of the 1969 British film of the same name, but it changes the setting, characters, and action sequences. Mark Wahlberg plays Charlie, while Charlize Theron plays Stella Bridger, the safe and vault expert who joins the team.
The 2003 film’s version of Lyle is a fictional character. His nickname should not be confused with the real Napster service, which was created by Shawn Fanning, Sean Parker, and Jordan Ritter and launched in 1999.