The Story of Facebook: “It’s Complicated”

Last night TriplePoint New York attended a sneak preview of The Social Network, aka That Movie About Facebook. The Mashable-sponsored event drew a full house despite torrential rains, giving the media industry a chance to watch the “movie based on a book about a website.” Despite some speculation about premature nostalgia (“too soon!”), every aspect of the film was polished and precise, from casting to editing to the ominous score, helmed by Trent Reznor. Indie favorite Jesse Eisenberg (Zombieland, Adventureland) does an excellent job in the complex role of Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg, making him relatable, driven and ultimately more sympathetic than the film’s source material.  “The Accidental Billionaires,” Ben Mezrich’s book about the murky origins of Facebook, casts Zuckerberg in a harsh light, while the film portrays him as flawed but ultimately well-intentioned. Justin Timberlake adds to the drama in his impressive portrayal of Napster founder and dot-com veteran Sean Parker.

While it’s nearly impossible to give an unbiased account of Facebook’s creation, David Fincher’s film is an exceptionally entertaining look at the birth, development and mainstream-ing of one very good idea.

If you haven’t already, check out the trailer here. While Peter Travers’ claim that it “brilliantly defines a decade” may be difficult to swallow, the film earns its rave reviews. After all, you don’t have to be a tech savvy twenty-something to “Like” a good story.

The Social Network opens everywhere October 1st.