Shocking New Jolt Doc: ‘Can’t Look Away’ Reveals Social Media’s Dark Impact on Teens

In the film “Can’t Look Away,” filmmakers Matthew O’Neill and Perri Peltz delve into the adverse effects of social media, highlighting the dangerous influence that algorithms from major technology companies can have on young people.

Drawing upon comprehensive investigative work by Bloomberg News journalist Olivia Carville, the documentary portrays a group of attorneys at the Social Media Victims Law Center in Seattle. These lawyers represent families who have suffered the loss of children through suicide, drug overdoses, or exploitation associated with social media. Directors O’Neill and Peltz document the legal battles these attorneys wage against Section 230 of the Federal Communications Act, which was established in 1996 prior to the rise of social media platforms. Section 230, also known as the Communications Decency Act, legally protects internet service providers from being held liable for the actions of third parties.

Peltz explains their interest in the story, noting, “The fact that this group of exceptional lawyers united to challenge Section 230 through product liability was a very intriguing angle for us.”

“Can’t Look Away” is currently available for viewing on Jolt, a streaming service powered by AI that aims to connect independent films with their respective audiences. Other recent titles on Jolt include “Hollywoodgate,” “Zurawski v Texas,” and “The Bibi Files,” a documentary by Academy Award winners Alex Gibney and Alexis Bloom that explores corruption within Israeli politics.

O’Neill discusses their decision to distribute the documentary through Jolt, highlighting the platform’s ability to “act swiftly and effectively reach an audience that is eager for this type of content.”

He further points out, “What also drew us to Jolt was its status as a tech company. They utilize innovative tools to identify and attract new viewers who may not typically engage with documentaries. As filmmakers, our goal is to communicate with a broad audience.”

Jolt leverages AI within its Interest Delivery Networks to match films with their intended audiences. Though Tara Hein-Phillips, CEO of Jolt, did not provide specific viewership figures for “Can’t Look Away,” she noted that since its launch in March 2024, the platform’s most popular film has been “Your Fat Friend.” This documentary follows the ascent of writer and influencer Aubrey Gordon, benefiting from her substantial yet specific online presence.

Hein-Phillips elaborates on the challenges of audience building, stating, “Finding and building an audience takes time and varies by film. Our strategy involves tailoring our approach to fit each film uniquely, which can be complex as there isn’t a one-size-fits-all audience.”

Jolt employs advanced analytics and machine learning to create targeted marketing strategies that enhance visibility for each film. Filmmakers partnering with Jolt retain 70% of their earnings from the platform, as well as full ownership of their work and all associated future rights.

Hein-Phillips adds, “Initially, we viewed Jolt simply as a platform to launch films with some marketing support. However, we’ve come to realize that building an audience requires a multifaceted approach. Depending on whether a film already has a following or not, we adapt our strategy accordingly to optimize its success.”

This “work” could include various promotional strategies such as theatrical releases, impact campaigns, or festival screenings.

Hein-Phillips remarks on the potential audience for “Can’t Look Away,” noting, “The film appeals to a wide range of viewers including parents, teens, legal professionals, and educators.”

Interestingly, despite the film’s critical view of social media, the directors have utilized it to promote their documentary. Peltz comments, “We aren’t against social media. Our film aims to place responsibility where it truly belongs.”

“Can’t Look Away” is set for release on Bloomberg Media Platforms in July.