Aaron Sorkinthe acclaimed screenwriter behind the 2010 hit The social networkhas announced its interest in developing a spiritual sequel to the film, this time focusing on the evolution and impact of Facebook on recent events, with special emphasis on political movements, such as the events of the January 6thwith the Assault on the Capitol after the defeat of donald trump In the elections. The news comes from comments made by Sorkin during a live recording of the podcast The Townwhere he detailed his vision of addressing the responsibility that Facebook would have in exacerbating social divisions through the manipulation of its algorithm to promote content that deepens polarization and increases user engagement.
The original film, directed by David Fincherwas a critical portrait of the birth of Facebook and its founder Mark Zuckerberginterpreted by Jesse Eisenberg. With a worldwide gross of $224 million and eight Oscar nominations, including Best Picture, The social network Not only was it a milestone in Sorkin’s career, but it was also positioned as a significant cultural work, reflecting the ethical and moral complexities behind the creation of what would become the most influential social network in the world. The interpretation of these events earned Sorkin a Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplayconsolidating the film as a reference in the discussion about technology and society.
The sequel proposed by Sorkin proposes a contemporary scenario where Facebook, now under the conglomerate of Goal, has played significant roles in various global social and political events, highlighting the manipulation of information and the influence on public opinion. Sorkin’s intention is to explore Facebook’s continuing influence on social and political life, and how it has evolved since the events narrated in the first film.
Sorkin’s interest in this sequel doesn’t come out of nowhere. Already in 2021, he had expressed his intention to revisit the world of Facebook in cinema, arguing that the company’s recent developments presented a rich narrative worth exploring. The involvement of the platform in events such as the movements of January 6 highlights the urgency and relevance of such narrative aspirations. However, David Fincher’s participation as director remains unknown., despite discussions between him and Sorkin about sequel potential. Fincher’s participation, given his distinctive style and his critical contribution to the success of the first film, would be decisive for the project.
The narrative of Sorkin’s proposed sequel is not limited to just portraying recent events; seeks to investigate the ethical and social implications of the decisions made by Facebook leaders and its algorithm. The manipulation of content to favor participation, even at the cost of promoting division, raises fundamental questions about the responsibility of digital platforms in contemporary society.
In short, while The social network Offering an introspective look at the origins and ambitions behind the creation of Facebook, Aaron Sorkin’s planned spiritual sequel aims to examine the legacy and consequences of its global expansion and socio-political impact. With recent developments in and around Facebook, the sequel promises to be as provocative and revealing as its predecessor, offering a timely critique of technology’s influence on global society, politics and culture.
