The Social Network [2010]

Enthralling story about the creation and the fights over Facebook, today’s most influential social network. The drama and betrayal that surrounds the popular site is astounding. Aaron Sorkin does a fantastic job at adapting Ben Mezrich’s “The Accidental Billionaires”. His biting script is a sure bet for the Academy Award. The director in charge of this incredible true story is the one and only David Fincher. His assured direction makes this a more impressive and involving tale with each minute of screentime.

In keeping with Fincher’s traditional dark look and feel, the film’s score is the work of Nine Inch Nails frontman Trent Reznor, with the collaboration of Atticus Ross. Jeff Cronenweth, who also worked with Fincher in Fight Club, is the best match for the director’s characteristic visual style. The assembling of the film’s talented young cast is its crowning achievement, though. Jesse Eisenberg tackles the fascinating role of Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg, the world’s youngest billionaire, with all his might.

Eisenberg comes out of his shell and plays Zuckerberg like an over-caffeinated geek with enough IQ and self-esteem to behave like a complete asshole. Andrew Garfield is magnificent as Mark’s former best friend and associate, Eduardo Saverin, expertly capturing his disappointment-fueled wrath. Every role and every performance is memorable: Rooney Mara, Max Minghella, Armie Hammer and Justin Timberlake turn in some decent supporting work. A solid contender for the ‘Best Picture’ Oscar, and a fine example that reality trumps fiction. Somebody give David Fincher a damn statuette already! God knows it’s overdue.