The Social Network -- Review

The nerds have invaded our world, and things are looking good!  With Sheldon Cooper and Leonard Hofstadter on television, it was only a matter of time before the nerds made a come back on the big screen, and they are making their come back in a BIG WAY!  The Social Network is the story of how Facebook came to be, and let me tell you it is a nerd's wet dream. 

A few years ago, had you asked any teen/college girl what type of guy she was looking for she'd most likely say the jock or the "bad boy", but if you asked today she would probably say that she loves nerds.  From 'The Big Bang Theory' to The Social Network, there is a group of new desirables making the "What's Hot" list these days.  It is the Sheldon Coopers and the Mark Zuckerbergs of the world that are now getting all of the attention, and this Friday you will see what I mean.

The Social Network hits theaters this weekend, and it is a classic in the making.  Jesse Eisenberg plays the insanely intelligent, all be it slightly socially challenged, creator of Facebook Mark Zuckerberg.  In this unbelievable role Jesse shines like the north star and shows that he is a force to be reckoned with in the acting community.  Yes, there are those of you out there that will confuse him with that kid from Scott Pilgrim and 'Arrested Development', but once you see this film you will surely know the difference between Jesse Eisenberg and Michael Cera.  You will know with absolute certainty that Michael Cera is just that kid that keeps making the same movies over and over again, only difference being the titles, while Jesse Eisenberg has gone from Zombieland to a role that rivals the genius of the amazing James Parsons (2010 Emmy winner for his role as Sheldon Cooper in 'The Big Bang Theory') as he gives the nerds we have grown to love on the home screen, a run for their money.  His portrayal shines a light on the man behind what we spend 18 hours a day on the internet, updating our statuses and poking our friends. 

From the opening scene (which I found to be a mix of genuine awkwardness and comedic genius) throws you into the deep end of the pool with a very special type of person, that most people either love or hate.  But as you watch this character, he grows on you until you realize that you cannot hate anyone like Mark because they simply cannot help themselves.  That sense of linear thinking draws a deep line in the sand and challenges anyone daring to get close enough to cross over to his side.  You will love to hate the man for his pure honesty and lack of bull-shit (if only everyone was that honest... although maybe not as that could turn out quite scary).  It is Jesse's expressions (or lack there of) and his seriousness throughout the entire film that makes you realize just how talented this young actor is.  I believe that there are very few actors today with the discipline to pull off such a complicated role with such perfection, yet Jesse is able to do so and make it believable is jaw dropping.  It is these unusual roles that challenge and set apart the "men from the boys" and I have to give kudos to the amazing actors that take on these roles and bring them to life like they do because it's not an easy task, especially when based on real people, and especially living people.

I'm not sure what the real Mark Zuckerberg is thinking when it comes to watching his college years played out on the silver screen, or if he even thought his life would be one that people would pay to see. The one thing I will tell you is -- The Social Network is sure to give you mixed feelings regarding some of the events that took place between friends and fellow computer geniuses, but I guarantee you, that after seeing this film you will have a new found love and respect for the men behind the life changing website.  You will walk out of the theater feeling intellectually stimulated just having had the ability to keep up with the quick jabs and techy dialogue between the computer nerds, while all the time being thoroughly entertained by the amazing talents of Jesse Eisenberg, Andrew Garfield (who portrays Eduardo Saverin), and Justin Timberlake (who portrays Sean Parker - "the other Napster guy").  It is the combination of these three and their dynamic relationship and struggles to maintain their friendships while creating one of the world's most influential websites yet to be developed. 

So regardless of what your relationship status is, update your status and post that you will be going to the theater this weekend to check out The Social Network.  I guarantee that you will be adding it to your favorite films list the minute you get home. 

I give The Social Network a 5 out of 5.    I love Nerds!