After watching social_animals, there is no doubt we are going down in history as the “Instagram generation.”
The film is an eye-opener to how social media affects younger generations, and how far people will go to feel a little loved and accepted. Comments and likes have become a method of calculation for self-worth.
The documentary creates a compelling narrative that follows a trio of teens: an aspiring model, an adventurous photographer and a lonely Ohio girl, and the impact Instagram has had in their lives.
A series of teen interviews set the tone during the introduction of the film.
When filmmakers asked teens how much time they invest in posting a photo and how frequent they checked their Instagram, responses were shocking.
People replied how they will sometimes set an alarm to check their newsfeed or how they log into Google to find the best caption to suit their photo.
While watching this film, I refused to identify with some of the rules and expectations social media has established.
However, I found myself indirectly abiding by some of the silly rules social media has.
Phrases such as, “You can’t double text or you’ll look too interested” or “You can’t post two selfies back to back on your news feed” are just some of the pointless rules that have somehow been established as taboo on Instagram.
However, for the three teenagers in this documentary, breaking any of these “Instagram rules” is tantamount to social suicide.
For Kaylin, the aspiring model, Instagram has helped her gain fame and receive numerous followers.
Through Instagram Kaylin plans to build a network of business professionals and obtain a following of at least 10 million followers so she can eventually establish her own business.
She discusses how Instagram has made her famous and marketable in fashion.
Similarly, Humza, the dauntless photographer, has been able to gain publicity for his artwork showcasing distinct angles from skyscrapers and tall bridges.
Humza understands how much Instagram affects him, as he is willing to risk life for the “perfect shot.”
His photographs have became recognizable all around the globe. When two American flags were stripped off their poles and replaced with white flags, Humza became the first suspect of what was labeled a terrorist attack.
This act greatly impacted Humza, as he instantly lost a bunch of his followers and his platform as an artist was damaged.
Emma, the lonely Ohio girl, shares her testimony on Instagram. Her Instagram began with lots of followers and was a way to easily make friends in school.
However because of a high school rumor her fame and self-worth declined drastically.
The documentary is food for thought; it highlights the reality of how younger generations are the co-creators of a digital era.
Communication is constantly being revolutionized and will continue to alter how information will be displayed.