The internet does a lot of things well. But creating safe spaces isn’t one of them.
Directed by Rachel Lee Goldeberg, Swiped follows the amazing true story of Whitney Wolfe (Lily James), a recent college graduate with a sharp wit and extraordinary grit. As she breaks into the ground-level of the male-dominated tech industry, Wolfe was instrumental in reinventing the realm of online dating with a tiny startup called Tinder. However, as her work environment becomes increasingly toxic, Wolfe’s journey towards success is derailed, forcing her to rebuilt her life and, potentially, a new platform that could change the world.
In many ways, it’s interesting that there have been many films in recent years about popular brands. From Air Jordans to cell phones to Flaming Hot Cheetos, it seems en vogue for Hollywood to tell the story of how notable companies have risen and fallen. But, despite the fact that the film follows the origins of Tinder, this truly isn’t a story about dating apps. Instead, Goldenberg taps into the spirit of Wolfe’s journey, creating a film that speaks to issues of gender disparity and feminine empowerment. In doing so, she also creates something far more memorable, giving voice to women who are struggling in a world of brutal masculinity.
As a result, the soul of Swiped is James herself. As Wolfe, James maintains a sense of confidence in her abilities throughout the entire film. She is smart, savvy and strong-willed. However, as the toxic environment of Tinder tries to swallow her whole, James does an excellent job portraying the self-doubt and fear that creeps into her mind. She knows that she’s not the problem. She’s seen the ways that things have turned sour.
Lily James as Whitney Wolfe Herd in 20th Century Studios’ SWIPED. Photo courtesy of 20th Century Studios.. © 2025 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.
But she’s also starting to question herself in the process.
For Whitney, the gaslighting by others shakes the very foundation of her personality, stealing pieces of her soul that she once treasured. She may have climbed the ladder of success but, when everyone denies her value, she begins to break down. In these moments, James balances her self-confidence with a growing frailty that has been put upon her by others. (And credit must be given to Goldenberg for not shying away from Wolfe’s struggles in her screenplay.)
It’s worth noting here that Swiped taps into the different ways that men can be destructive to women in the workplace. Although the film begins with the more obvious brutal ‘tech bros’ who view women as threats to be dominated, it also shows greater depth with its male fragility. There’s acknowledgement of the ways that men who have taken advantage of women online as a result of dating apps. What’s more, Swiped also highlights men who are not guilty of abuse but still have managed to fail women, whether it be not speaking up on their behalf or simply fading into the background for fear of losing the power that they had achieved themselves. (And yes, for what it’s worth, there are also men who are supportive to Whitney’s journey as well.) With every example, Goldenberg highlights the vast spectrum of male toxicity that stand in the way of women in power.
Sometimes, the sexual oppression is overt. Other times, men fail simply because of their weakness of character.
(L-R) Dan Stevens as Andrey and Lily James as Whitney Wolfe Herd in 20th Century Studios’ SWIPED. Photo by Hilary Bronwyn Gayle. © 2025 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.
In this way, Swiped doesn’t only feel like it’s solely Whitney’s cross to bear. Instead, the film poises itself as a rallying cry to all women who are being oppressed and silenced in a male-dominated world. Part of the joy of watching Whitney’s journey stems from her concern for others, whether it’s in the workplace or the dating landscape. To Whitney, what matters most is creating safe spaces for women. And, without saying too much, as she loses her footing at Tinder, the rise of Bumble seems to become the opportunity for her to do so. For Whitney, true success isn’t only about carving out her own seat at the table.
It’s about changing the landscape for all women.
And Swiped seems to understand what needs to happen for that to take place. Through the lens of Bumble, Goldenberg’s examination of the internet landscape sees hope for the future of women on the interwebs. Even in Wolfe’s darkest spaces, her inner strength and courage make these moments feel temporary. Swiped takes the trauma of sexual abuse seriously yet still imbues the film with a sense of optimism.
Lily James as Whitney Wolfe Herd in 20th Century Studios’ SWIPED. Photo by Hilary Bronwyn Gayle. © 2025 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.
In Swiped, Goldenberg uses that hopeful spirit to counterbalance the overwhelming brutality of a male-dominated world. And that energy makes it a film that you don’t want to swipe past on Disney+.
Swiped is available on Disney+ on Tuesday, September 19th, 2025.
