Even if you're not on Facebook, watch it. If you are, you anyways will.

Rating: 10/10 (19 November 2010)

Now there have been many movies in the past that have shown the back story of a famous phenomenon that affected an entire generation, and arguably Facebook is that phenomenon of this generation. But what sets 'The Social Network' apart is its complete indifference to the way it portrays the character of Mark Zuckerberg, the founder of Facebook. By not giving clear reasons for his sort-of villainous actions, the film leaves it to the viewer to decide and even as the end credits roll, even much after that actually, you are left with a seeming doubt in mind - Hero or Villain? For the movie seems to be trying hard to convince the viewer that Mark is both. The other major characters of Mark's only friend Edourdo(Andrew Garfield) and the Napster founder Sean Parker(Justin Timberlake) are written with clear cut white and dark shades respectively.
The story behind Facebook, as with all great things, is actually pretty elemental. A break-up sets off a turn of events in the life of young Mark(Jesse Eisenberg), as he sets about creating what would become the world's most famous social networking site. As the story proceeds, with flashbacks and current happenings, we discover the various betrayals and events that shaped Facebook as we know it(including how the 'The' got knocked off from Facebook.com) and what would have been a pretty average story is super enhanced by crackling,on-your-face dialogues that take time for you to register, as the film is littered with just so many of them. Not only that, but the fine, restrained performances by all the actors adds a depth to the movie that makes it very realistic. The movie may not appeal to some sections of the audience simple because the movie's progress is strictly verbal and there is nothing else to support the movie except for the dialogues and the acting. The music is the one other factor that adds onto all that is good in the movie.
The one sore point is the some-what abrupt ending, which shows Mark using his own creation to re-connect with the very 1st person he hurts in the movie. But overall 'The Social Network' leaves a lasting impact with its sharpness and is a very engaging film thanks to the writing department. I'd give it a 4/5.
Even if you're not on Facebook, watch it. If you are, you anyways will.