In its cold, almost forensic way, this is as tense and exciting as it is absorbing. It's a miracle, really.

The Social Network, just like its subject, is the pop culture phenomenon of the new generation.

Fincher does, at least, make decent entertainment out of such inherently unprepossessing subjects as computer use and legal hearings.

Like the screwball comedies and film noir staples of yore, The Social Network exhibits an extraordinary gift for gab.