Shaun Says: The darker aspects of the manosphere
I came late to it, and so I had kept my counsel, but on Wednesday night I sat down and prepared myself to be at best, annoyed, and at worst, well, who knows?
The Louis Theroux documentary exploring the manosphere is an unsettling foray into a world that most of us only glimpse from the dark corners of social media. With his signature gentle probing and disarming manner, Louis manages to gain access to some of the most notorious online communities, where so called “Alpha Males” gather to foster resentment towards women and society at large. The manosphere is not a monolithic group, but rather a collection of subcultures ranging from the relatively harmless to the deeply toxic. Louis’s interactions with these men are revealing, not just for what they say, but for what they don’t – the underlying sense of alienation, frustration, and the search for power and control that permeates much of their discourse.
The documentary does not shy away from the darker aspects of the manosphere. Louis meets with individuals who have been accused of perpetuating misogynistic attitudes and even inciting violence. HS Tikky Tokky for one, and approaches these conversations with a degree of empathy, attempting to understand what drives people to such extreme viewpoints. At the same time, he is careful not to let these opinions go unchallenged. This balancing act is crucial, as it prevents the documentary from becoming a platform for hate while still allowing viewers to hear directly from those involved. The result is a nuanced portrait that avoids sensationalism and seeks to get to the heart of why the manosphere has become so influential, particularly among younger men who feel marginalised in today’s society.
One of the most compelling parts of the documentary is Theroux’s exploration of the manosphere’s appeal. Many of the men he interviews speak candidly about feeling lost, undervalued, and unable to find purpose in a rapidly changing world. The manosphere, for them, provides a sense of community, even if it comes at the expense of others. Theroux’s skill lies in drawing out these personal stories, illustrating how vulnerability can sometimes be twisted into anger or resentment. He also speaks with critics and experts who provide context for the rise of these online groups, linking them to broader issues such as economic instability, shifting gender roles, and the influence of social media.
Also, the young women who are drawn in to this world vary from those who state that they are perfectly happy to be with a man who has fathered their children, whilst having multiple liaisons with other women, because that man offers a relatively wealthy lifestyle and looks good in an expensive suit. The “Alphas” laugh at the young women they exploit, disrespecting them verbally and often physically, and they are easily able to do this, when the women involved seem intent that the only thing they seek in a partner is a man over six feet tall, with a seven figure salary, the clothes, the cars, the houses. When asked what they contribute to a relationship, their answer is “I’m pretty/sexy/independent.” This isn’t empowerment, this is playing into the very worst aspects of a patriarchy.
Throughout the documentary, Theroux demonstrates an admirable commitment to understanding without endorsing. His calm presence encourages honesty, and the resulting conversations are often uncomfortable but necessary. The programme leaves viewers with difficult questions about how society can address the root causes of alienation and division without simply condemning those who feel left behind. Louis is a far better man than I, he seeks to understand and empathise, I haven’t the capacity for that with these men. They are toxic and they are spreading that toxicity globally, how can women feel safe, respected, and equal, when up against this?