it's just this thing. it's bad. they don't look at people when they talk to them and build empathy. >> reporter: this existential rant struck a major nerve. 4 million views sporting a smartphone backlash. 23 million people have now watched charlene deguzman's new film, "i forgot my phone." >> we are not in the moment anymore because we're looking at our phones. a lot of special moments are passing us by. >> reporter: many people have self-imposed restrictions, no phone after 10:00 p.m. phone in a different room on weekends and leave your phone on the table at dinner and if you pick it up, you also pick up the check. i have a new game. when i am driving in los angeles i count how many people i spot on their cell phones. lady walking the dog, guy at a bus stop. >> i stopped counting at 50. i'm not judging these people.