Kermode on Film

The Social Reckoning – What Went Wrong?

Kermode on Film

Summary

Mark Kermode and Jack Howard reunite at the Sun Pub in London's West End to share personal updates and critique the film "The Social Reckoning." Kermode congratulates Howard on his recent engagement, which took place in Mexico City, and they reminisce about their own proposals. Howard discusses his work with musician James Blunt, highlighting their humorous dynamic and collaborative projects.

The conversation shifts to their thoughts on "The Social Reckoning," which they both found disappointing. Kermode notes that while the film's subject matter about the dangers of social media is compelling, he feels Aaron Sorkin's direction lacks finesse compared to his previous collaborations with directors like David Fincher. Both express frustration with Sorkin's script, citing issues with pacing and visual storytelling. They agree that the film fails to effectively convey its themes, ultimately leaving them underwhelmed despite the strong performances. Kermode concludes that the film's poor box office performance reflects its shortcomings, hoping it encourages Sorkin to collaborate with more skilled directors in the future.

Show Notes

Mark Kermode and Jack Howard discuss The Social Reckoning at the Sun Pub on London's Drury Lane

Films mentioned in this episode: The Social Reckoning The Social Network Steve Jobs Molly’s Game The Trial of the Chicago 7 Being the Ricardos A Few Good Men Splash Notting Hill Spartacus The Shawshank Redemption One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest Romancing the Stone Oppenheimer Digger Robin Hood

TV mentioned Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip 30 Rock The Traitors

People mentioned Mark Kermode Jack Howard Aaron Sorkin David Fincher Danny Boyle Rob Reiner Jeremy Strong Mikey Madison Jesse Eisenberg Armie Hammer Alexandre Desplat Tom Hanks Michael Douglas Mark Zuckerberg Jeff Horwitz Simon Mayo James Blunt

With thanks to Richard Gay and The Sun Pub on London's Drury Lane.

Kermode on Film is an HLA Agency production Produced by Hedda Lornie Archbold and Anaïs Ferrato © HLA Agency Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

More from Kermode on Film

Oct 20, 2026

In this episode of Kermode on Film, Mark talks to returning guest, director James Watkins about his highly anticipated body horror thriller CLAYFACE, a DC Comics origin story. From discovering Welsh actor Tom Rhys Harries and working with Naomi Ackie to the film’s prosthetics and practical effect, James takes us behind the scenes of his character-driven horror. They also talk about the formative films that shaped him and the shift towards horror in mainstream cinema.

Oct 13, 2026

In this episode Mark talks to returning guest, writer-director Carol Morley about her new coming-of-age feature 7 MILES OUT premiering at BFI London Film Festival. The only British film in competition, it is adapted from Carol’s celebrated semi-autobiographical novel of the same name.

Oct 6, 2026

Mark talks to actor and musician Johnny Flynn about his new film THE IDIOT(S). They discuss his collaboration with directing duo Małgorzata Szumowska & Michał Englert, working with co-star Aimee Lou Wood, and an inspirational scene from a film featuring his late father.

Sep 29, 2026

In this episode of Kermode on Film, Mark talks to director Molly Manners and actors Marni Duggan and Galaxie Clear about their debut feature, the coming-of-age comedy EXTRA GEOGRAPHY.

Sep 22, 2026

In this episode of Kermode on Film, Mark talks to comedian and actor Nick Mohammed about his career from Ted Lasso to Mr Swallow, his role in the West End play THE TRAITORS and his upcoming TV series WAR.

See all episodes →