The Social Network (2010) Directed by David Fincher, this biographical drama chronicles the founding of Facebook by Mark Zuckerberg and the subsequent legal and personal battles that followed. The narrative alternates between Zuckerberg’s meteoric rise at Harvard, where his innovative yet controversial idea transformed into a global phenomenon, and the lawsuits brought against him by former friends and collaborators. The film explores themes of ambition, betrayal, and the cost of success, portraying Zuckerberg as both a visionary and a socially disconnected figure. Aaron Sorkin’s sharp screenplay and Jesse Eisenberg’s compelling performance create a gripping tale of genius and hubris in the digital age.

Best Dialogues and Quotes from The Social Network (2010)

The Social Network (2010) Dialogues and Quotes with Philosophical Breakdown

“You don’t get to 500 million friends without making a few enemies.”

This quote highlights the idea that success often comes with its share of conflicts and challenges. It suggests that achieving something great can sometimes result in opposition or rivalry.

“The Internet’s not written in pencil, Mark, it’s written in ink.”

This dialogue underscores the permanence of online actions and decisions, reminding us to be mindful of our digital footprint. It reflects the life philosophy of accountability and the lasting impact of our choices.

“A guy who builds a nice chair doesn’t owe money to everyone who has ever built a chair.”

This statement speaks to the importance of innovation and originality. It suggests that while inspiration can be drawn from others, each creation stands on its own merit, promoting individual achievement.

“I was your only friend.”

This line reflects the value of genuine relationships and loyalty, emphasizing how personal connections can be far more significant than professional alliances or superficial networks.

“You’re going to go through life thinking that girls don’t like you because you’re a nerd. And I want you to know, from the bottom of my heart, that that won’t be true. It’ll be because you’re an asshole.”

This quote delivers a harsh truth about personal responsibility and self-awareness. It conveys the message that our actions and attitudes shape how others perceive us, not superficial attributes.

“We lived on farms, then we lived in cities, and now we’re gonna live on the internet.”

This line captures the evolution of human society and the shift to a digital age. It suggests embracing change and adaptability as a philosophy for navigating modern life.

“If you guys were the inventors of Facebook, you’d have invented Facebook.”

This quote emphasizes the importance of action and execution over mere ideas. It suggests that taking initiative is crucial in bringing concepts to life, a key principle in driving success.

“I need to do something substantial in order to get the attention of the clubs.”

This dialogue reflects the human desire for recognition and validation. It highlights the drive for accomplishment as a means to gain acceptance and esteem from peers.

“You have part of my attention. You have the minimum amount.”

This quote speaks to the concept of prioritizing focus and energy. It suggests that not everything deserves equal attention, promoting efficient use of one’s resources.

“We don’t know what it can be. We don’t know what it will be. We know that it is cool.”

This statement captures the essence of innovation and uncertainty. It embraces the unknown as a space for creativity and potential, encouraging an open-minded approach to the future.

“I’m CEO…bitch.”

This line encapsulates a bold and assertive approach to leadership. It suggests owning one’s role with confidence and unapologetic self-assurance, a life philosophy centered on self-belief.

“The site got 2,200 hits within two hours?”

This quote highlights the power of engagement and the rapid dissemination of information in the digital age. It underscores the potential for immediate impact and widespread reach.

“I did not come for what my friends think of me, I came for what the future holds.”

This line reflects forward-thinking and vision. It emphasizes focusing on long-term goals rather than immediate social perceptions, promoting a philosophy of future-orientation.

“I think if your clients want to sit on my shoulders and call themselves tall, they have a right to give it a try.”

This quote addresses the concept of leveraging others’ success. It suggests that while collaboration can be beneficial, true stature comes from one’s own accomplishments.

“This is our time.”

This statement inspires seizing the moment and recognizing opportunities. It encourages living in the present and making the most of current circumstances, embodying a carpe diem mentality.

“It’s like a Final Club, except we’re the president.”

This line highlights exclusivity and leadership. It suggests creating one’s own path and being at the forefront of innovation, promoting a philosophy of self-determination.

“I was drunk, and angry, and stupid.”

This quote acknowledges human flaws and the consequences of actions taken in emotional states. It promotes self-reflection and learning from mistakes as a path to personal growth.

“As if every thought that tumbles through your head was so clever it would be a crime for it not to be shared.”

This line critiques the ego and the compulsion to express every idea. It encourages discernment and restraint, valuing quality over quantity in communication.

“You have no idea what that’s going to mean to my father.”

This dialogue reflects the impact of achievements on personal relationships. It highlights the interconnectedness of success and familial pride, emphasizing the importance of legacy.

“You better lawyer up, asshole, because I’m not coming back for 30%. I’m coming back for everything.”

This quote speaks to determination and the pursuit of justice. It underscores the importance of standing up for oneself and fighting for what is rightfully deserved, a philosophy of resilience and tenacity.

Interesting Facts about The Social Network (2010)

Real Harvard Didn’t Cooperate with Filming

The makers of “The Social Network” were not allowed to film on Harvard’s campus, so most of the Harvard scenes were shot at Johns Hopkins University and other nearby campuses instead.

Opening Scene Took Multiple Takes

The opening scene, featuring a conversation between Mark Zuckerberg and Erica Albright, took 99 takes to complete. Director David Fincher is known for his meticulous attention to detail.

Justin Timberlake’s Role Required No Audition

Justin Timberlake, who played Sean Parker, did not have to audition for his part. Director David Fincher was impressed with his performance in “Alpha Dog” and cast him directly.

Screenwriter Aaron Sorkin Makes a Cameo

Aaron Sorkin, who wrote the screenplay, made a cameo appearance as one of the ad executives meeting with Mark Zuckerberg and Eduardo Saverin in a restaurant.

Accurate Typing Required

Jesse Eisenberg, who played Mark Zuckerberg, was required to type exactly what’s on the screen when his character was coding. This attention to detail ensured authenticity in the portrayal of Zuckerberg’s programming skills.

Real Twins Were Not Used

Armie Hammer played both Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss, with actor Josh Pence serving as a body double for one of the twins. Hammer’s face was digitally superimposed onto Pence’s body in post-production.

Inspired by a Book

The film is based on the 2009 book “The Accidental Billionaires” by Ben Mezrich, which explores the founding of Facebook. The book itself was written with considerable input from Eduardo Saverin, Zuckerberg’s former friend and co-founder.

Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross’s Unique Score

The film’s score, created by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, won an Academy Award. The duo composed an unconventional soundtrack that complemented the film’s modern and intense tone.

Jesse Eisenberg’s Family Connection

Jesse Eisenberg’s cousin, Eric Fisher, is actually a Facebook employee, providing an interesting connection between the actor and the real-world company he portrayed in the film.

David Fincher’s Directing Style

Known for his perfectionist approach, David Fincher often required numerous takes for each scene, which helped to capture the precise performances seen in the film.

Script Dialogue is Densely Packed

The screenplay for “The Social Network” is famously dense, with about 162 pages of dialogue. Despite this, the film’s runtime is just two hours, highlighting the rapid-fire delivery of lines.