Swiped Film Review: A Unique Blend of Barbie Charm and Social Network Intrigue

There’s a new biopic making waves at the Toronto International Film Festival, and it’s all about Whitney Wolfe Herd,the woman behind Bumble and a co-founder of Tinder. This film dives into her journey and how she reshaped the online dating scene for women.

Online dating has transformed the way we find love. With just a few taps on our phones, we can connect with potential partners who share our interests. However, this digital world isn’t without its dangers. A 2018 report from Statistics Canada showed that women face a much greater risk of unwanted online behavior. More recently, a 2024 study from the Canadian Women’s Foundation revealed that one in five women in Canada has experienced online harassment. This alarming trend underscores the pressing need for safer platforms.

In Swiped, director Rachel Lee Goldenberg gives us an inside look at the birth of these dating apps and the challenges women face. The film follows Wolfe’s rise from college graduate to CEO, offering a peek into her life. Actress Lily James portrays Wolfe at different stages, showcasing her evolution and the obstacles she overcame. The story begins in 2010, when Wolfe joins Tinder as the marketing director. As she helps create the app, she also faces the harsh realities of a patriarchal work environment.

Despite her success, Wolfe endures harassment and discrimination from colleagues and clients. Back then, discussing such issues was far less common, with the #MeToo movement yet to emerge. Wolfe eventually decides to speak out. When her concerns are dismissed, she leaves Tinder and files a lawsuit for harassment and discrimination. This real-life legal battle reflects a significant moment in tech history.

Fuelled by her experiences, Wolfe launches Bumble, a dating platform that gives women more control. Her focus is on creating a space where women lead the conversation. This brave move results in her becoming one of the youngest female billionaires in tech.

Though Wolfe wasn’t directly involved in the film’s production due to an NDA, Goldenberg successfully conveys her story of strength and resilience. James’ performance adds depth to the character, making Wolfe relatable and human.

The film highlights the struggles women face in male-dominated fields but sometimes leans too much into comedy, which can overshadow the serious themes. Still, the pacing and engaging soundtrack keep viewers hooked.

Swiped delivers an important message about technology’s role in dating and gender issues. As Goldenberg reminds us, “Through courage, change is possible.” Whether you love it or not, the film sparks conversation about online dating and its implications for women today. You can stream Swiped on Hulu and Disney+ starting September 19.

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