A new hour-long documentary titled Men of the Manosphere, produced by Belfast broadcaster James Blake, delves into the troubling landscape of incel culture and toxic masculinity. The programme, which aired on BBC Three, offers an intimate look at young men drawn into a world that often fosters harmful beliefs about women and relationships.
Blake’s approach sets him apart from many documentaries that focus heavily on the loudest voices within the manosphere. Instead of showcasing the provocative rhetoric of influential figures, he concentrates on the experiences of those affected by these ideologies. By doing so, Blake highlights the vulnerabilities and struggles of young men navigating a complex societal landscape.
Many individuals featured in the documentary share their personal journeys into the manosphere, often triggered by feelings of rejection and isolation. For instance, 16-year-old Sam recalls becoming involved with these online communities at just 13 years old. He is a paying subscriber to one influencer whose teachings he believes have transformed his life. “He changed my life… He taught me how to grow up,” Sam states, reflecting a deep admiration for the figure guiding him through turbulent times.
Blake himself navigated similar waters after ending a five-year relationship. He candidly revisits content he once engaged with, admitting, “It’s almost like a different person. I was hurting, and this content gave it a voice.” His brief yet intense involvement in the manosphere serves as a backdrop for understanding the deeper implications of these ideologies.
The documentary features other young men like Shane, a 22-year-old criminology graduate who found solace in “red pill” ideology post-breakup. This philosophy encourages men to reject societal norms and focus solely on self-improvement, often at the expense of healthy relationships. Shane expresses the internal conflict he faces: “If you don’t get too invested [in women], you can avoid all the heartbreak and stuff.”
Blake’s thoughtful inquiries reveal the complexities of this mindset. Young men like Shane grapple with feelings of affection for partners while adhering to teachings that discourage emotional investment. Another participant, Jack, aged 27, echoes this sentiment, emphasizing a need for men to take control of their lives. He dreams of becoming an online guru and is currently investing £650 a month to learn how to achieve that goal.
Throughout the documentary, Blake maintains an empathetic tone, demonstrating genuine concern for the well-being of these young men. His interactions reveal a mix of confusion, contradiction, and loneliness. For many, the promise of community and understanding found in these online spaces offers a false sense of belonging.
As Sam meets some of his online friends in real life, his joy is palpable yet tinged with sadness, illustrating the complexities of virtual versus real-life connections. The documentary raises critical questions about the exploitation these young men face, not necessarily in terms of sexual manipulation but through other forms of social and emotional predation.
The hour-long film serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges young men encounter in a rapidly changing society. Men of the Manosphere invites viewers to reflect on the implications of these ideologies and the urgent need for understanding and support among vulnerable populations. The documentary is available for viewing on iPlayer, offering insights into a subculture that continues to shape conversations about masculinity today.
