The Social Dilemma

Release Date: January 26, 2020

MPAA Rating: PG-13

Cast: Skyler Gisondo, Vincent Kartheiser, Kara Hayward

Pros: The Social Dilemma is a documentary that came out on Netflix that was made to dissect the toxicity of the internet and to spread awareness about social media. Like most documentaries, The Social Dilemma heavily relies on its visual effects to get their point across. Their graphs, models, flashy texts, and A.I, all work effectively in bringing the audience important information in a fun way. Unlike most documentaries, the movie has an underlying thematic storyline which is surprisingly engaging. While the experts talk about the addicting algorithm of social media, the characters in the movie show how it affects them first hand. At first it is a bit jarring but slowly you get used to it making it a fun experience. The actual information the Social Dilemma provides is invigorating as well. In this day and age, social media essentially runs society. The Social Dilemma does a good job spreading awareness on how addicting and dangerous this social media can become if it continues going down the same path.

Cons: The biggest con lies in the thematic storyline. While it was engaging, some of the acting felt forced and a little bit cringeworthy. The pace of the documentary overall could have been kept better as there were beats where the documentary slowed down a little bit.

Star Rating: 7.5/10

Final Thoughts: Overall, The Social Dilemma is an engaging documentary with an important message made even more prevalent in today's world. Although the pacing and acting is a little off, the stylistic tone overshadows the movie's faults making it a solid watch.