Aaron Sorkin Set for ‘The Social Network’ Follow-Up Film
Award-winning screenwriter Aaron Sorkin is returning to the world of Facebook with a new film project at Sony Pictures. While sometimes referred to as “Part II,” the movie is described as a follow-up rather than a direct sequel to his critically acclaimed 2010 drama, The Social Network. This time, Sorkin is set to not only write the screenplay but also take on directing duties.
The new film will draw inspiration from The Wall Street Journal’s explosive 2021 investigative series, “The Facebook Files.” Authored by Jeff Horwitz, this extensive report utilized leaked internal documents to expose significant issues within Facebook, highlighting its alleged awareness of the platform’s role in facilitating harmful content, impacting youth mental health, contributing to violence, and spreading misinformation globally.
Exploring Facebook’s Later Impact
Unlike the original film, which chronicled the tumultuous founding of Facebook and its early legal battles, this follow-up will delve into the platform’s evolution and controversial impacts in the years since. Sorkin has previously expressed interest in revisiting the subject, citing events like the January 6, 2020 U.S. Capitol attack as partial inspiration, believing Facebook played a role. However, sources indicate the film’s focus will be broader, centering on the wider revelations from “The Facebook Files,” including:
The platform’s effects on teens and preteens.
Connections to violence and misinformation.
Its influence in countries outside the U.S.
This suggests the film will tackle the more complex and often darker consequences of the social media giant’s global reach.
Sorkin Steps Behind the Camera
While David Fincher famously directed the original Social Network, Sorkin will helm this new installment. He has expanded his directing resume since 2010 with films like Molly’s Game, The Trial of the Chicago 7, and Being the Ricardos, sharpening his skills for this return to the Facebook narrative.
The project is currently in development with Todd Black, Peter Rice, Aaron Sorkin, and Stuart Besser attached as producers.
Legacy of the Original and Casting Buzz
The Social Network, based on Ben Mezrich’s book The Accidental Billionaires*, was a major success for Sony Pictures in 2010. It grossed $226 million globally and earned three Academy Awards, including an Oscar for Sorkin’s adapted screenplay. The film also boosted the careers of its cast, including Jesse Eisenberg and Andrew Garfield.
Given the original’s impact, roles in this follow-up are expected to be highly coveted in Hollywood. A major question surrounds whether Jesse Eisenberg will reprise his Oscar-nominated role as Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg. While most original characters are unlikely to return, it’s widely speculated that the character of Zuckerberg will need to appear in some form in a film tackling Facebook’s recent history, even if Eisenberg doesn’t return.
With development deals closed, Sorkin is reportedly now focusing on assembling his ensemble cast. A production start date has not yet been announced.
References
- deadline.com
- <a href="https://www.imdb.com/news/ni65351895/?ref=nmnwr_1″>www.imdb.com
- tribune.com.pk
- <a href="https://www.imdb.com/es-es/news/ni65351904/?ref=nwcart_perm”>www.imdb.com
- www.empireonline.com
