In a bold critique, Aaron Sorkin links Facebook to the January 6 capitol insurrection, setting the stage for his next film project.
Aaron Sorkin, the acclaimed screenwriter behind “The Social Network,” has confirmed that he is working on a sequel to the 2010 Oscar-winning film. During an appearance on “The Town” podcast, Sorkin discussed his perspective on Facebook’s influence on societal issues, notably blaming the platform for its role in the January 6, 2021, Capitol insurrection.
Sorkin, known for his sharp critique of political and social issues through his screenplays, expressed deep concerns about Facebook’s algorithms promoting divisive content to boost user engagement. “Facebook has been tuning its algorithm to promote the most divisive material possible because that is what will increase engagement,” Sorkin explained on the podcast. He highlighted a lack of balance between growth and integrity at the social media giant, suggesting that a shift in priorities could lead to meaningful change.
Embed from Getty ImagesThe new project will delve into the complexities of social media’s influence on democracy and public discourse, continuing the narrative that began with the origin story of Facebook. Sorkin’s first film, “The Social Network,” was widely praised for its exploration of the personal and legal battles surrounding Facebook’s early days.
This sequel comes at a time when public scrutiny of social media platforms is intensifying, with calls for accountability and transparency growing louder. Sorkin’s commentary adds a significant voice to the ongoing debate about the responsibility of tech giants in moderating content and shaping political landscapes.
While details about the film are still under wraps, Sorkin’s revelation that he initially shelved a January 6 script suggests a redirection towards a more focused critique of Facebook. The writer-director’s desire to reunite with David Fincher, the director of the original film, hints at the potential for a compelling and visually engaging sequel.
Aaron Sorkin’s decision to tackle such a contentious and timely issue reflects his commitment to addressing the pressing concerns of our era through cinema. As anticipation builds, the film industry and audiences alike are eager to see how Sorkin will once again challenge viewers’ perceptions of the digital world’s impact on society.