87 minutes / Color
Closed Captioned
Release: 2021
Dissecting one of the most influential platforms of the contemporary social media landscape, TIKTOK, BOOM., directed by CODED BIAS filmmaker Shalini Kantayya, examines the algorithmic, socio-political, economic, and cultural influences and impact of the history-making app. This rigorous exploration balances a genuine interest in the TikTok community and its innovative mechanics with a healthy skepticism around the security issues, global political challenges, and racial biases behind the platform. A cast of Gen Z subjects, helmed by influencer Feroza Aziz, remains at its center, making this one of the most needed and empathetic films exploring what it means to be a digital native.
With this new work, Kantayya, a Sundance Fellow, continues her engagement in the space where technology meets, amplifies, and opposes our humanity. Her incisive, current look at the power and complexity of tech continues to advance a conversation that is bettered by her careful stewardship.
"A thoughtful conversation starter."
The Hollywood Reporter
"An impressive scope with its journalism."
Nick Allen rogerebert.com
"An intriguing exploration."
CBS News
"Engrossing...a cliffhanger"
The Wrap
"A great little historical film that reminds us where this generational new outlet came from."
IndieWire
"Sprightly, informative...there are more levels to the TikTok phenomenon than there are to almost any other blockbuster app."
Variety
"...the documentary shows that there's so much more going on behind the scenes that most of its users aren't even aware of."
Golden Globe Awards
"Raises many pressing concerns about the power of TikTok and its lack of accountability"
That Shelf
"The film is a story of personal branding versus personal privacy."
POV Magazine
"The documentary, TIKTOK, BOOM. is here to remind you of the good and the bad."
Geek Vibes Nation
"Incisive look at the power and complexities of technology"
Black Film
"Shalini Kantayya's is the kind of film that should be mandatory viewing for the rising numbers of kids who dream of being social media influences one day..."
Slash Film
"At once fascinating and frightening...insightfully explores the social media platform."
Flickering Myth
"Fascinating and insightful"
Splash Magazine
Kantayya, Shalini (film director)
Kantayya, Shalini (film producer)
Dinerstein, Ross M. (film producer)
Mynard, Danni (film producer)
Aziz, Feroza (on-screen participant)
Director of photography, Steve Acevedo; editor, Seth Anderson; original score, Katya Mihailova.
Selected Accolades
