Aaron Sorkin's 'The Social Reckoning' Criticized as Unnecessary and Clunky Sequel
A review calls Aaron Sorkin's follow-up to 'The Social Network' a plodding, obvious, and unaccomplished film.
Aaron Sorkin's latest film, "The Social Reckoning," a cinematic exploration of Facebook's societal impact and the work of whistleblower Frances Haugen, has been met with sharp criticism, with one review labeling it a "plodding, unnecessary bore." The film, which attempts to follow the narrative arc initiated by "The Social Network," is described as forgettable, obvious, and unaccomplished.
"The Social Reckoning" centers on the damage inflicted by Mark Zuckerberg, Facebook, and Meta, a theme the review suggests is a widely understood concept akin to a corporate conspiracy to make consumers unhealthy. In contrast to its predecessor, "The Social Network," which was lauded for its witty script, dramatic tension, and sharp portrayal of Mark Zuckerberg by Jesse Eisenberg, Sorkin's new film is characterized as a "foghorn" that lacks the original's compelling narrative and tonal sophistication.
The screenplay itself is criticized for being jargon-obsessed, limp, and rudimentary, marred by weak jokes and what are called Sorkin's most self-indulgent tendencies. Dialogue, such as references to "Showboat" and "A Tale of Two Cities," and a character's exclamations about not being a "Frank Capra character," are cited as examples of the script's perceived self-importance and awkwardness.
Jeremy Strong's portrayal of Mark Zuckerberg is described as overly dramatic and lacking emotional depth, with the review stating he "showboats" and comes off as "absolutely ridiculous." In contrast, Mikey Madison's performance as Frances Haugen is noted as a stronger element, with the actress showcasing a different side of her acting range as the quiet, socially inept whistleblower. Jeremy Allen White, playing Wall Street Journal reporter Jeff Horwitz, is described as delivering a rather bland performance.
The film's narrative structure, which hops between 2019, 2020, and 2021, is criticized for its confusing timeline and the inclusion of events like the Covid pandemic and the January 6th riot, which the film suggests were influenced or exacerbated by Facebook. The review argues that the film presents its points with "snarling, MSNBC rage," ultimately encouraging viewers to react similarly to the platform's algorithms.
"The Social Reckoning" is compared unfavorably to other perceived unnecessary sequels such as "Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny," "The Matrix Resurrections," and "Jaws 2," suggesting it is a film best forgotten.