I wasn't planning to review Social Media Monster. Honestly, I probably wasn’t even going to watch it. But after sharing the trailer on our social accounts, I was thrust into a world I didn’t want to be in. Matthew, the Social Media Monster himself, immediately proved Peter John Ross correct. A brief exchange was all it took before Matthew contacted my employer with the most ludicrous claims. While I don't want to be in my very own episode of Baby Reindeer, this guy is a complete loser, and I'm determined to shine a light on the film, the issues it raises, and the pathetic piece of shit that Matt truly is.
Social Media Monster is a riveting documentary that delves deep into the unsettling world of internet trolling, turning the spotlight on a man whose virtual vendettas have real-world consequences. Superior editing and organization of the footage enhance the film’s impact, crafting a narrative that is as compelling as it is disturbing.
Directed by Peter John Ross, this film presents a personal and haunting portrait of Matthew, an unemployed man living out of his car, who uses his phone and free WiFi to wreak havoc on unsuspecting individuals. Fans of Michael Moore, Morgan Spurlock, and the film Catfish will find a familiar yet unique investigative approach in this documentary, which uncovers the dark side of social media with unflinching honesty.
The experience of watching Social Media Monster is akin to witnessing a train wreck; it’s impossible to look away, even though you might feel like you’re watching something you shouldn’t. This film doesn’t just tell a story; it forces viewers to confront the broader issues of online harassment and the inadequate response from both the justice system and social media platforms.
The documentary serves as a poignant introduction to a larger problem. It highlights how individuals like Matthew exploit the loopholes between our justice system and tech giants like Facebook, Google, and Instagram, who benefit from increased engagement spurred by online conflicts. The film meticulously details the escalation of Matthew's actions, including threats of terrorism, showcasing the severe consequences of unchecked online behavior.
However, the film could have benefited from an interview with Alex Hwang, the man who initially supplied Matthew with money, to provide a more comprehensive perspective on Matthew’s motivations and actions. If not him though, maybe someone that personally knows Matthew, or even someone from his family to add more context. This missing piece leaves a slight gap in an otherwise thorough investigation.
Social Media Monster is not just a documentary but a call to action. It suggests that if Matthew Berck dedicated the time he spends fighting online to activism, journalism, filmmaking, or even slinging steaks, the world would be a better place. This thought-provoking film underscores the need for societal and legislative changes to address the growing issue of online abuse.
In summary, Social Media Monster is a must-watch for anyone interested in the dynamics of online behavior and its real-world repercussions. With its superior editing, personal touch, and gripping narrative, this documentary is both a cautionary tale and a compelling piece of storytelling. Don't miss this eye-opening journey into the dark side of social media, now streaming on YouTube.
Jessie Hobson
Sent from my iPhone