The Social Reckoning (2026)

The Social Reckoning is written and directed by Aaron Sorkin, who is better known for his writing than his directing, and it shows. Compared to David Fincher's vision in The Social Network, the direction here is a noticeable step down. Thankfully, the writing is top tier and easily on par with some of Sorkin's best work. The dialogue is sharp, the story holds your attention, and the script gives the cast plenty to work with. The movie is good, but it is not going to be for everyone.

Mikey Madison, known for Anora and Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, is a standout as Frances Haugen. She does an excellent job convincing the audience that she is socially awkward and a genuine nerd without making the performance feel forced. It is the kind of role that could easily become a caricature in the wrong hands, but Madison makes the character believable and gives the film one of its strongest performances.

Jeremy Allen White, best known for The Bear and Shameless, plays Jeff Horwitz as cold, distant, and almost archaic in his approach. He brings a very different energy to the movie, making the character feel detached in a way that works for the story. His performance is another example of how strong the acting is throughout most of the film.

Betty Gilpin is a great supporting presence, bringing a welcome energy to the story without needing to dominate every scene. She complements the main cast well and helps keep the film moving whenever the focus shifts away from its central figures.

Jeremy Strong is also excellent as Mark Zuckerberg. He manages to dissolve into the role rather than simply impersonating Zuckerberg, making the character feel like a person instead of a recognizable public figure being imitated. It is another strong performance from an actor who has already shown what he can do in Succession.

Unfortunately, Anna Lambe, who also appeared in Heart of the Beast, remains the weakest link. Her performance once again feels out of place, and I cannot help thinking the role would have benefited from different casting. It is frustrating when a movie gets so much right with its writing and performances, only to have one casting choice stand out for the wrong reasons.

The Social Reckoning is a good movie with excellent writing and a strong cast, even if Aaron Sorkin's direction does not measure up to what David Fincher brought to The Social Network. Mikey Madison and Jeremy Strong are particular highlights, while the script carries the film through its weaker moments. It may not have the same cinematic impact as its predecessor, but the writing makes it worth watching. Result: B+

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