Yale Film Archive Celebrates Classics with a Screening of “The Social Network”
The Yale Film Archive’s spring semester film series is currently showcasing a diverse range of screenings that honor both timeless classics and more contemporary cinematic achievements. This commitment to excellence was particularly evident during the recent Saturday night presentation of a 35mm print of David Fincher’s “The Social Network,” a critically acclaimed film that delves into the origins of Facebook and the ensuing turmoil, spanning from Harvard’s campus to Palo Alto and the various environments in between.
This award-winning film, which has recently been inducted into the National Film Registry and is marking its 15th anniversary, was featured as part of the Cinemix series, which highlights “standalone screenings of noteworthy films.” The evening began with a screening of “Basic Computer Terms,” a 1976 educational short film by Yale alumnus Sheldon Renan that offers an entertaining yet informative glimpse into the role of computers in daily life.
A Timeless Insight into Facebook’s Origins
In discussing “The Social Network” with a friend, they expressed skepticism about whether anyone in 2025 would be unaware of Facebook’s backstory. If you find yourself among those who are unfamiliar, this film is a must-see, providing valuable insight into the transformation of a Harvard socialization platform into a global phenomenon for sharing life experiences and forging connections. Even for those well-versed in Facebook’s origins, the film transcends that narrative, exploring deeper themes. While Jesse Eisenberg’s portrayal of Mark Zuckerberg takes center stage, Fincher skillfully reveals the darker aspects of university life, including fraternity rituals, party culture, and the dynamics of privilege that permeate that environment.
The event was co-hosted by Yale’s Library Software Preservation and Emulation unit and coincided with the “Remembering ‘Amnesia’: Rebooting the First Computerized Novel” exhibit at the Sterling Memorial Library, open until March 2. Attendees were welcomed by Claire Fox, Wendy Hagenmaier, and Ethan Gates from Software Preservation and Emulation, alongside YFA Managing Archivist Brian Meacham, who introduced the films and elaborated on the exhibit and their ongoing initiatives.
Behind the Scenes of the Screening
Meacham explained that “Basic Computer Terms” is the third installment of Renan’s trilogy, which also includes “Basic Film Terms” and “Basic Television Terms,” both of which are in the process of preservation for future screenings. He provided background about the film’s host, Terry McGovern, a voice, television, and film actor who gained prominence in the 70s and 80s. Meacham introduced the other speakers, who offered further context for the screening and insights into the goals of their unit, which includes uncovering more stories related to the history of media and its creators. This prompted a desire to explore the exhibit further, which features an interactive fiction game available for play throughout the month.
Meacham also shared information about upcoming screenings, including a semester-long tribute to Alfred Hitchcock’s “Vertigo,” which had previously been shown to a sold-out crowd two weeks earlier. In response to the overwhelming demand, a second screening is now scheduled for March.
A Nostalgic Journey Through Technology
“Basic Computer Terms” is a delightful artifact from the 70s, featuring characters like Harry, a cigar-smoking businessman overwhelmed by paperwork, and Jane, the computer expert who simplifies fundamental computer concepts for him. The film employs animation and humor to make the complexities of technology more accessible, evoking nostalgia with images of old processors and rotary phones that elicited laughter from the audience.
While “The Social Network” is not a comedy, it elicited numerous laughs from viewers due to its witty dialogue and sharp lines crafted by Oscar-winning writer Aaron Sorkin, known for his clever storytelling. The film opens with a memorable scene where Zuckerberg, portrayed by Eisenberg, faces a breakup with his girlfriend, Erica Albright (played by Rooney Mara), leading him to create a provocative website that rates the attractiveness of Harvard women, which ultimately brings the university’s network to a halt. This pivotal moment sets the stage for Zuckerberg’s tumultuous journey, which the film explores in depth, culminating in his ascent to fame and fortune.
The impact of social media has vastly exceeded initial expectations, with Zuckerberg expressing concerns about Facebook’s relevance as co-founder Eduardo Saverin (played by Andrew Garfield) urges him to monetize the platform. What began as a trendy social tool has transformed into a ubiquitous platform filled with advertisements, shifting the landscape of online interaction. Sean Parker, portrayed by Justin Timberlake, encapsulates this shift, stating, “We lived on farms, and then we lived in cities, and now we’re going to live on the Internet.”
The Enduring Legacy of “The Social Network”
Facebook has evolved into a multifaceted entity, far beyond just a space for sharing photos and making purchases. Opinions about its influence vary widely, but whether viewed as a groundbreaking innovation or a detriment to society, the film’s portrayal of the events leading to its creation and the subsequent legal disputes creates a compelling narrative driven by a talented ensemble cast. Complementing the storytelling is the film’s Oscar-winning score by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, which resonates long after the credits roll.
On this memorable evening, the audience at the Wall Street auditorium was captivated by the film, even those who had seen it multiple times before. Fifteen years post-release, “The Social Network” remains a powerful and often sobering reflection on the events that have shaped contemporary culture. The journey from outdated technology like dial-up modems and floppy discs to the complexities of modern social media highlights the timeless nature of human emotions—broken hearts, failed friendships, and empty promises—elements that no machine can replicate.
Free Film Screenings at Yale Film Archive
The Yale Film Archive continues to offer free and open screenings to the public. For details about upcoming films, including their schedules and locations, please consult their official website.
