The social media giant TikTok is the focal point of the illuminating documentary TikTok, Boom. The film is even more relevant today since its release, as calls to shut down the Chinese platform have mounted recently.
Filmmaker and environmental activist Shalini Kantayaa explores the origins of TikTok as a company while also focusing on three “influencers” who rose to fame off the social media app. It's this juxtaposition that makes for a somewhat disjointed yet still informative film, but one that suffers a bit from trying to do too much at once.
We meet “Spencer X,” Deja Foxx, and Feroza Aziz and learn how these “TikTok stars” became popular on the platform. However, just as we get comfortable with these three, the film quickly pivots back to a focal point about the company’s origins, the “algorithm” it uses to lead people in, issues with privacy and censorship, and more. Had Kantayaa let these individuals shine on their own (or let their stories develop a little further), the film overall would have had more significant impact.
The film feels too fragmented, and the points it tries to make about censorship and privacy as well as U.S.-China relations lose coherence. Each of the three creators mentioned also have interesting stories to tell, yet the film cuts back and forth too often for the audience to really connect with them. There’s also a US bias at play; although there are millions of TikTok users in the United States, the app also has users all around the world (and has had that many even before the platform reached the USA).
There is a lot of interesting information here, but the film, at just under 90 minutes, tries to tell all of it at once. Kantayaa is a clearly gifted filmmaker, yet she suffers from trying to tell too many stories at once. There is still a lot to like here despite this. TikTok, Boom is a valuable resource for those studying modern Internet culture. It is also an excellent addition to a library series about social media and its impact on various age groups.
How can TikTok, Boom. be integrated into public libraries’ collection development?
TikTok, Boom. can be a valuable addition to public libraries' documentary collections, particularly in sections focusing on media studies, technology, and social issues. Its exploration of social media’s impact on privacy, censorship, and international relations makes it a relevant and timely resource for fostering discussions about the role of technology in modern society. Libraries could use it to support programs addressing digital literacy and critical media consumption.
What college courses and majors could benefit from using TikTok, Boom.?
Courses in media studies, communication, sociology, international relations, and digital marketing would benefit from incorporating TikTok, Boom. into their curricula. The film provides a springboard for examining topics like social media influence, algorithmic bias, privacy concerns, and the cultural impact of digital platforms. It could also enhance courses focused on global business practices and U.S.-China relations.
How could Parks and Recreation programs use TikTok, Boom in their educational initiatives?
Parks and Recreation programs could utilize TikTok, Boom. in workshops about digital safety and the effects of social media on mental health. It could also be part of educational initiatives aimed at teens and young adults, providing a platform for discussions on responsible social media usage, online privacy, and creative expression.
What are the Public Performance Rights (PPR) considerations for screening TikTok, Boom.?
Before hosting public screenings of TikTok, Boom., libraries, schools, or organizations must secure Public Performance Rights. This ensures legal compliance for using the documentary in community events, educational programming, or workshops, making it accessible to a broader audience.
How could TikTok, Boom. enhance special events on college campuses?
TikTok, Boom. could serve as a centerpiece for events like media literacy panels, discussions on digital ethics, or workshops about navigating social media's influence. Its focus on both individual stories and the larger implications of social media makes it a great conversation starter for topics such as privacy, content creation, and international technology policy.
Why is TikTok, Boom. a strong candidate for movie licensing?
TikTok, Boom. is a strong candidate for licensing due to its relevance to contemporary social and political issues, making it appealing for educational institutions and community organizations. Its timely focus on TikTok’s global influence, privacy concerns, and its impact on modern culture ensures that the film will engage a wide range of audiences and provoke meaningful dialogue.