Parents' Guide to The Social Reckoning

The movie's talented stars save Sorkin's over-stuffed screenplay from becoming a series of preachy speeches. A tribute to both whistleblowing and traditional journalism, The Social Reckoning already feels a bit out of date in a world that's now grappling with ever-growing AI-related concerns. At this point, it doesn't take much to convince people who trust credible sources that Zuckerberg and other tech CEOs always prioritize profits over people, making this the sort of docudrama that might have been more effective as a documentary. A couple of the scenes between Madison and White simmer with unnecessary tension (like a moment in which Jeff earnestly holds Frances' hands), and viewers may be frustrated to discover that a few important supporting characters are fictional composites—including Frances' former friend who becomes radicalized by fringe White supremacist groups and Charlie Garrigan (Bill Burr), a former Zuckerberg mentor/investor who believes the CEO shouldn't just abdicate responsibility to the public under the guise of supporting the First Amendment.

But the stars do give memorable performances. Madison plays Haugen as a true Facebook believer who initially hopes to change the company's culture for the better, not become a whistleblower. White's version of Horwitz is amusingly tech-phobic for a Silicon Valley reporter, and Strong's devotion to the Method is on overdrive in his merciless portrayal of Zuckerberg. While Strong looks considerably older than the Facebook creator does in real life, he nails the billionaire's cadence and demeanor. Sorkin's signature rapid-fire dialogue, establishment-liberal social commentary, and fascination with powerful institutions are all here, though they make the screenplay land a bit more like your smartest uncle's favorite extended argument than a quick-witted dramatic narrative. But that certainly doesn't mean the movie isn't worth watching, particularly when it comes to reminding audiences about the ongoing risks of using social media and giving billionaires too much power in the information age.