The Social Dilemma

Exploring dark truths of social media

Watch on Netflix
About The Social Dilemma

Released: 2020

Platform: Netflix

Rating: PG-13

Run time: 1h 34m

Cast
Skyler Gisondo, Kara Hayward, Vincent Kartheiser

About The Social Dilemma

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About

"The Social Dilemma" is a 2020 American docudrama film directed by Jeff Orlowski. The film explores the dangerous impact of social networking platforms on society, focusing on the manipulation of users through algorithms and the spread of misinformation online. It features interviews with tech experts and former employees of major tech companies to provide insight into how these platforms operate and influence user behavior. The documentary uses a combination of dramatized scenarios and interviews to illustrate the consequences of social media addiction, surveillance capitalism, and the erosion of societal norms. Through compelling storytelling, "The Social Dilemma" sheds light on the ethical and social implications of our increasingly connected digital world.

Making / Production

The film was directed by Jeff Orlowski and produced by Larissa Rhodes and Davis Coombe. Orlowski and his team conducted extensive research and interviews to bring together diverse perspectives on the impact of social media.

Actors

  • Skyler Gisondo – played the role of Ben, a fictional character representing the dangers of social media addiction.
  • Vincent Kartheiser – played the role of the Algorithm, symbolizing the manipulative algorithms used by social media platforms.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

  • The film includes appearances by tech industry insiders such as Tristan Harris, former Google design ethicist, and Tim Kendall, former director of monetization at Facebook.
  • "The Social Dilemma" sparked discussions on the ethical responsibilities of tech companies and the need for regulation of social media platforms.

Awards

"The Social Dilemma" received the Orizzonti Award for Best Screenplay at the Venice Film Festival in 2020 for its impactful storytelling and insightful exploration of the social media landscape.

Quotes

  • "If you're not paying for the product, you are the product." - Tristan Harris
  • "We predicted what you will click on, and that's the only way this whole model works." - Tim Kendall

Music, Soundtrack

  • The film features an atmospheric and thought-provoking score composed by Mark Crawford, enhancing the emotional impact of the narrative.