Let’s be honest, when the news first surfaced that acclaimed writer Aaron Sorkin was writing the script for a movie about Facebook, most of us laughed. Then we found out that it wasn’t a joke, and we groaned and prepared for the worst. Even with luminaries like Sorkin and director David Fincher on board, what were the chances that this wouldn’t be just a disaster waiting to happen?

The film, which is currently in production, is scheduled for release in October 2010. However, that hasn’t stopped the script for The Social Network from appearing near the top of 2009’s The Black List. The Black List is a compilation of the most-liked unproduced scripts of the year, as chosen by Hollywood insiders.

The Social Network, which is number two on the list, is unique for several reasons. First, it is a script from a high-profile writer (Sorkin), whereas the bulk of the list is made up of up-and-coming screenwriters. Second, as we’ve covered, the film’s production is well underway. This underscores just how well the script itself has been received.

This is how Entertainment Weekly describes the film:

The Social Network

By Aaron Sorkin

What it�s about: Chronicles Mark Zuckerberg�s complicated journey towards creating Facebook. Sorkin depicts both the founder�s motivations for starting the largest social network in the world and the human casualties that came with his profound success.

What it�s like: The fascinating biographical elements of�Shattered Glass meets the courtroom drama of�Kramer vs. Kramer, without the tears. Sorkin cuts between Zuckerberg�s heated depositions with his former Harvard colleagues who claimed he stole Facebook from them and the chronological retelling of the company�s trip to becoming a billion-dollar enterprise.

Status: In production for Sony Pictures. Jesse Eisenberg plays Zuckerberg while Justin Timberlake portrays Sean Parker, one of the founders of Napster and Zuckerberg�s idol. David Fincher is directing.

Having read an early draft of the script, as well as Ben Mezrich’s book, The Accidental Billionaires, I have to agree with the assessment: It’s an excellent script with the potential to be an excellent film. While I’ll hold back judgment until the film actually reaches theaters, at this point, it seems more likely than not that “the Facebook” movie won’t suck after all.

Reviews: Facebook

Tags: Aaron Sorkin, facebook, facebook movie, Movies, screenplays, the social network