Aaron Sorkin, the acclaimed writer behind the award-winning film The Social Network, appears to have found a fresh angle for a follow-up project. A follow-up film, tentatively titled The Social Network Part II, is reportedly in development at Sony Pictures. Though referred to as part two, insiders indicate that this film will not be a straightforward sequel; instead, it aims to delve deeper into the underlying issues introduced in the original 2010 movie, which famously chronicled the creation of Facebook.
The new narrative will be based on the Wall Street Journal’s investigative series, The Facebook Files, authored by Jeff Horowitz in October 2021. This series brought to light critical insights into the challenges and controversies surrounding the social media giant, exploring its impact on various facets of society, including the mental health of young users, misinformation, and its influence on international events.
Sorkin has expressed his interest in creating a follow-up since the original film’s success, which earned $226 million at the box office and garnered eight Oscar nominations, winning three, including Best Adapted Screenplay for Sorkin himself. He recognized the significance of Facebook’s role following the events of January 6, 2021, during the U.S. Capitol attack, which served as a catalyst for his renewed inspiration to tackle the subject matter.
While the original film was directed by David Fincher, Sorkin has also built up his directing credentials with films such as Molly’s Game, The Trial of the Chicago 7, and Being the Ricardos. He is now poised to take on directing duties for this new installment.
Although no production date has been announced yet, cast discussions are expected to commence soon, with the anticipation that agents will be vying to secure roles for their up-and-coming talents. It remains unclear whether Jesse Eisenberg, who was nominated for an Oscar for his role as Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg, will reprise his iconic character in the upcoming film.
The development of this project is a powerful reminder of the ongoing cultural and ethical implications of social media, as filmmakers continue to explore stories that not only entertain but also engage with contemporary issues. Sorkin’s focus on vital themes suggest that audiences can expect a thought-provoking narrative that resonates with current societal challenges while shedding light on the complexities of technology’s impact on our lives.