Catfish (2010)

Catfish is a documentary about New York photographer named Nev Schulman, who develops an online relationship with the older sister Megan, of an 8 year old artist named Abby in Michigan. Abby paints a photo of his that was published in a newspaper, and sends it to him. Through Abby, he is connected with her mother Angela, father Vince, sister Megan, and many others on Facebook.

As more paintings arrive from Abby, and he spends a considerable amount of time chatting on Facebook, and via cell phone with Megan. Eventually an opportunity arrives for Nev and Megan to meet. What happens next is shocking, and has to be seen to be appreciated.

Like the tagline says "Don't let anyone tell you what it is."

Filmed by Nev's older brother Ariel Shulman, and Henry Joost, Catfish is a well put together film, that never exploits the parties involved, or demon-izes the use of social media networks like Facebook. It takes a hard, honest look at what is real, and what is perception, when corresponding with someone you don't know.

I was completely fascinated by this film. It was real, and significant, and tastefully handled. Even when it's obvious that frustration, and confusion is becoming too much for Nev, the camera stays on.

It's a documentary everyone should see.

Rated PG13, Runtime 87mns