Following -1998- |verified| Jun 2026

Unable to afford professional equipment, Nolan relied heavily on available light, which the black-and-white film stock helped mask.

The late 1990s was a transformative time for the world. The internet was still in its infancy, but it was rapidly becoming an integral part of daily life. Social media, as we know it today, did not exist, but the seeds of it were being sown. One of the most significant cultural phenomena of this era was the concept of "following." In this article, we will explore the rise of following in the context of -1998- and its lasting impact on modern culture.

It proved that attention could be monetized. A followed page was a returning customer.

4 minutes

As we look to the future, it is essential to recognize both the benefits and drawbacks of following. By understanding the evolution of following and its impact on modern culture, we can work towards creating a healthier, more positive online environment that promotes connection, engagement, and community-building.

The film explores the danger of curiosity. It suggests that once you step outside the boundaries of social norms to "observe" others, you lose your own protection against being observed and manipulated in return. A Lasting Legacy

Because of the tiny budget, Nolan employed ingenious tactics to complete the film over 14 months: Following -1998-

Let’s connect the dots.

Made on a shoestring budget of roughly $6,000, Following is the ultimate example of "guerrilla filmmaking." Nolan used his own apartment as a set, filmed exclusively on Saturdays to accommodate his cast's day jobs, and shot on 16mm black-and-white film.

October 5, 2023

1998 was the last year of the old world. It was the final moment you could be a kid riding a bike without a leash (a cell phone) to your parents. It was the last time you could get hopelessly lost and discover a diner by accident.

Online communities began to form around shared interests, hobbies, and fandoms. These communities provided a space for people to connect with like-minded individuals, share information, and engage in discussions. The seeds of social media were being sown, and the concept of following was about to become a central aspect of online culture.

The lesson of 1998 is that