Aaron Sorkin to Write and Direct ‘The Social Network Part II’ Inspired by Facebook Files – New Details Revealed

Aaron Sorkin is set to write and direct a follow-up to his hit film The Social Network, according to sources who spoke with Deadline. The new project, called The Social Network Part II, won’t be a direct sequel but will continue the story in a fresh way.

It’s inspired by the Wall Street Journal’s explosive series of articles known as The Facebook Files, which exposed problems inside Facebook and the impact the platform has had on society.

Sony Pictures is behind the film, with producers Todd Black, Peter Rice, Sorkin himself, and Stuart Besser involved in the project. Sorkin’s script explores the issues raised by The Facebook Files, focusing on how Facebook has affected teens, politics, violence, and even events beyond the United States.

The original The Social Network came out in 2010 and told the story of Facebook’s early days. It was based on Ben Mezrich’s book The Accidental Millionaires and directed by David Fincher. The movie was a big success, earning $226 million worldwide and winning three Oscars, including one for Sorkin’s adapted screenplay. Jesse Eisenberg starred as Mark Zuckerberg and earned an Oscar nomination for his role.

Sorkin has talked about making a sequel for years but couldn’t find the right story. After the events of January 6, 2020, when the U.S. Capitol was attacked, he saw a new angle and believed Facebook played a role in what happened. However, the new film won’t focus solely on that day or the 2020 election, sources say.

Instead, it will cover a wider range of topics related to Facebook’s influence, such as how it affects young users and its role around the world. Unlike the first film, Sorkin will also direct this one. Since the original, he has directed movies like Molly’s Game, The Trial of the Chicago 7, and Being the Ricardos, so he brings more experience to this role.

No official start date for production has been announced yet. But with deals in place, Sorkin is now looking for actors to fill the roles. Given the success of the first film and the breakout performances it delivered, many agents will likely be eager to get their clients in front of him.

It’s not clear yet if Jesse Eisenberg will return as Zuckerberg or how much he would appear if he does. Most of the original cast probably won’t come back, but it would be surprising if Zuckerberg isn’t part of the story in some way.

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