Teen Reactions to Theroux's Manosphere Film Surprise Parents and Experts
Louis Theroux's new Netflix documentary, Inside the Manosphere, has generated significant discussion, but not necessarily for the reasons one might expect. Released on Friday, 13 March 2026, the film delves into the controversial online world of the manosphere, featuring interviews with influencers like Harrison Sullivan (HStikkytokky), Myron Gaines, Sneako, and Justin Waller. While the documentary exposes the dark, sexist, and money-obsessed narratives of these figures, the reactions from teenagers and their parents have revealed a surprising shift in perceptions.
Parental Shock and Teenage Dismissal
Judith, a 47-year-old speech therapist, watched the documentary with her sons, Justin (17) and Tom (15), and Justin's friend Anton (17). She was so appalled by the interviewees' views that she initially believed the film was a satire. "I kept saying to my boys, he's not real, he's not real, because I can't believe in 2026, there are people with views like that on women," she explained. Her sons, however, found her reaction amusing, with Justin admitting to having been a fan of Sneako and HStikkytokky at ages 14 and 15. He noted a bond with creators like Andrew Tate, who discuss growing up without fathers, a theme that resonates with many young men feeling isolated.
Evolving Teen Perspectives
Justin's perspective has evolved over time, particularly due to figures like Myron Gaines, whose open aggression toward women and bullying content turned him off. "His content is bullying, and it sort of put me off the whole thing as you realise a lot of the content is just picking on weaker people," Justin said. Anton, still following some manosphere creators for fitness tips, expressed skepticism about their financial promises, citing a friend who lost money on crypto offers. Tom was even more critical, describing the influencers as "marble-sucking d*ckheads" and noting their hypocritical behavior between interviews and online personas.
Expert Concerns and Broader Implications
Markus Buhmann, who watched the documentary with his 15-year-old son, highlighted the "lost boys" narrative, suggesting the manosphere has a cult-like hold on vulnerable young men. Lewis Wedlock, author of Masculinities in Schools, expressed concerns that the documentary might entertain rather than educate, failing to address the harm caused by mainstreamed misogyny and violence against women. The film's absence of female voices, except for supportive partners, further underscores these issues.
Despite the documentary's dark themes, there is a glimmer of hope. The teenage reactions indicate a growing disillusionment with the manosphere's toxic elements, suggesting that, like the fictional Kevin the Teenager, many may outgrow these influences. As Theroux's film reveals, the manosphere's appeal is waning, replaced by a recognition of its sad and juvenile nature.
