Yay or nay: Did season 7 of Black Mirror hit all the marks? I delve into the nitty-gritty of it all to help you decide which episode is worth your time.
When Black Mirror season 7 was released over the weekend, you best believe I binge-watched the whole thing without missing a beat. The show is known for its take on contemporary occurrences like the rise of social media and advancing technology, adding dark twists and spins that shake your impression of the world. The latest season has been considered one of the best seasons yet, and I can see why.
There are rarely any shows that evoke a sense of loyalty out of me the same way Black Mirror does. I’m a huge fan and can go on full rants about how revolutionary each episode is. Plus, the blatant call outs as it parallels real-life circumstances? Unmatched and inspiring. As an opinionated fan who’s been given free rein to talk about the latest season, I’m here to give you my unfiltered (and perhaps controversial) thoughts on the latest episodes. So buckle up, we’re going for a ride.
Black Mirror season 7 at a glance, spoiler-free!
Despite the anthology format, each season of Black Mirror typically centres around a universal theme to keep the episodes united, and season 7 is no different. Grief, obsession, and identity are discussed, along with sprinkles of criticism on capitalism taking the spotlight. While the technologies depicted are still fantastical in nature, I find the likelihood of their existence completely possible – it’s something our world is crawling towards.
I’m also happy to report that, unlike the last two seasons, these episodes don’t shy away from visceral and gut-wrenching scenes, which I’ve always loved Black Mirror for. No shade to season 5 and 6 – I thought they were still enthralling, just missing a little of that Black Mirror flavour that made the show so successful.
Season 7 was also particularly enjoyable thanks to all the Easter eggs hidden within each episode. But to me, being able to see each story tied together with shared elements like songs and characters kept me glued to my seat and piqued my interest. So here are my rankings for each episode, from best to worst.
1. Plaything
What it’s about
After being detained for shoplifting and discovering that he’s wanted for murder, Cameron Walker explains the events in his life leading up to his arrest to the police. Previously a video game reviewer, he goes into wild detail about how an unreleased game made by Colin Ritman changed his life and view of the world.
My review on Plaything
Disclaimer: I will admit I’m biased because this episode’s connection with Black Mirror’s Bandersnatch had my heart the moment Colin Ritman appeared. Plaything offers fantastic alternate commentary on the current obsession we have with AI. The episode addresses the now less-than-fantastical idea that robots could take over the world one day, and what might happen if they become “too smart”. It parallels the possibilities of people becoming subservient to technology and losing their agency.
Unfortunately, the detectives in the show are painfully unaware of what’s to come, fixating on the murder Cameron committed instead of his suspicious behaviour in the interrogation room. It’s tense, mysterious, and ominous.
Bonus: an actual Thronglets game was released alongside season 7! After giving it a go, I’d say it’s a cute game with eerie elements that kept me addicted. It also adds to the immersiveness of the episode.
2. Common People
What it’s about
Happily married and completely in love, Mike and Amanda seem to be an ordinary couple. However, a wrench is thrown into their story as Amanda is diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumour. To keep her by his side, the doting husband signs her up for a high-tech solution to save her life. Unfortunately, some things are just too good to be true.
My review on Common People
A subscription service just to be alive, who would’ve thought? Black Mirror creator Charlie Brooker, that’s who. The episode starts like any other love story, with an introduction of the couple at the peak of their marriage and trying for a baby. But then they were hit with a tragedy.
It begs the question: how far are you willing to go to keep your loved one alive? For Mike, it meant giving away his time, energy, and dignity as long as it kept Amanda breathing. But as the subscription grows, the quality deteriorates, and prices increase with each new premium tier. Does that sound familiar to anyone?
I applaud Black Mirror’s direct criticism of the growing subscription-based business models. The message is a bold choice considering the show is hosted on Netflix, which has come under fire for the tweaks it’s made to its subscription model over the years. The episode draws out pity and sympathy as Mike and Amanda struggle to keep up with their bills. The ending, while bittersweet, was a necessary evil and successfully documents the turmoil of losing a loved one.
3. USS Callister: Into Infinity
What it’s about
The crew from the original USS Callister episode makes a comeback, continuing the storyline from season 3. They’re now attacking other players to survive and struggling with their freedom in the world of Infinity, while in the real world, the company Callister comes under fire. It’s up to real-world Nanette to figure things out and to absolve herself from guilt over Robert Daly’s death.
My review on USS Callister: Into Infinity
This is Black Mirror’s first sequel episode, and it satisfies the voracious appetites of fans who were incredibly invested in the stories. I’d love to see sequels to episodes like Fifteen Million Merits, Nosedive, and Hated in the Nation too.
We get richer and more nuanced characters here, along with fantastic plot twists that make your stomach turn. I’m especially fond of the development of the characters and the technology used in the Black Mirror universe. Tech elements from episodes like White Christmas, The Black Museum and San Junipero have all evolved and can be seen in this episode. The world-building is top-notch, adding to the immersion.
So, why isn’t USS Callister: Into Infinity higher than a 3? Mostly because of personal preference. Since it’s a sequel, it lacks an “a-ha” moment that I value in typical Black Mirror episodes. This one serves as a continuation of one of its best stories, rewarding loyal fans who’ve been around since the early years. That being said, it’s still a great watch.
4. Bete Noire
What it’s about
Maria, a food scientist working in a chocolate-making company, Ditta, is confused and miffed by the arrival of Verity, an old schoolmate who applies for a job in her company. After Verity joins the team, strange things happen to Maria that only she can see. As their rivalry develops and tensions rise, Maria takes matters into her own hands.
My review on Bete Noire
From the moment Maria was introduced, something about her didn’t sit right with me. She reminded me of bitter acquaintances who couldn’t stand the success of others, doing anything in their power to undermine them. And let’s just say I was right to trust my gut.
Bete Noire hits all the right notes when it comes to gaslighting, exploring the Mandela effect, and how childhood bullying leads to long-term trauma and consequences. The whole episode was tense and kept me on my toes. Actresses Siena Kelly and Rosy McEwen were phenomenal in their roles, perfecting the art of understated catfighting.
I enjoyed this episode the same way I enjoyed Shut Up and Dance from season 3 – full of turmoil and a sense of betrayal. It nails everything except for the ending, which turned out a bit too fantastical for me, even by Black Mirror standards. What I appreciate is Netflix’s playful prank on fans by releasing two variations of the episode. Watch it a second time and you’ll see what I mean. Absolute brain bender.
5. Eulogy
What it’s about
Tucked away in the quiet countryside, Philip is surprised by a phone call regarding the passing of his ex-girlfriend, Carol. At the request of her family, Philip helps curate memories of Carol using groundbreaking technology that allows him to step inside photos. Instead of pleasant reminiscing, he faces emotions like regret, sorrow, and guilt.
My review on Eulogy
The details in this episode were fascinating. While he had pictures from his youth, Philip’s memories of the past are hazy and depicted as such when he enters pictures with pixelated figures and faces. The dramatic impact of seeing someone’s face scribbled out in 3D does something to your soul. It was heartbreaking in the most understated way.
While I rank this episode in fifth place, it wasn’t a terrible watch. Paul Giamatti’s acting is brilliant, capturing amusement and turmoil in the blink of an eye. His heart-wrenching performance will leave you speechless. It parallels a common experience – the haunting thought of “what could have been” and the retrospective regret with no opportunity for closure.
The downside for me was Philip as a character. While I empathised with his emotions, I couldn’t look past his blinding rage and self-centeredness. He never gave Carol a chance to talk; instead acted out in anger. Being able to put his feelings aside for the woman he loves is the bare minimum. The fact that he couldn’t do that left me more annoyed than satisfied.
I’d consider this more of a palate cleanser episode in between the more intense action and drama. However, Eulogy is an excellent conduit for introspection and processing grief.
6. Hotel Reverie
What it’s about
Strapped for cash, studio head Judith Keyworth adapts her original hit Hotel Reverie using a new software called Redream, which throws people’s consciousness into any film. The concept and role are eagerly taken up by actress Brandy Friday, who’s looking to expand her repertoire. But, sticking to the original timeline proves to be more difficult than Brandy anticipates, and she ends up creating a story of her own.
My review on Hotel Reverie
Hotel Reverie had the potential to hit all the marks of a fantastic Black Mirror episode. There was interesting technology, a budding love story, and the potential for things to go sideways in the most incredibly Black Mirror way. Unfortunately, Hotel Reverie was a disappointment in every element.
First, the good. I commend Corrin’s acting, as it sets the scene for a typical black and white film. The delicate style of acting and the Transatlantic accent were true shows of commitment to the character. Despite being in black and white, the set looked beautiful. And the story was completed in a bittersweet way.
Now, the bad. Even though the ending was well-rounded, my trouble was the process of getting there. Brandy Friday was narrated to be an A-list actress looking to break out of the “damsel in distress” archetype, but she showed no superstar capabilities in her “acting”, and there was no attempt to pretend she was in the 1940s.
Even if we assume Brandy’s strange acting choices were intentional, the episode felt drawn out and made little sense. A recreation of a movie with no change to the plot except for the lead actor felt lazy, and I couldn’t imagine anyone watching it and giving it a five-star rating. That, coupled with the tenuous sapphic love story, felt like a cheap tactic to salvage what was a doomed-to-fail plot. Disappointing all ‘round.
So, is Black Mirror season 7 worth watching?
I wouldn’t consider season 7 the best season out of the Black Mirror series, but it’s definitely up there in terms of ranking. Season 7 goes back to the roots of what Black Mirror was meant to be – a criticism of human behaviour and the dark side of advancing technology. Hits and misses are to be expected, but I highly recommend watching it just for the evocation of emotions. Whether it’s disgust, intrigue, or epiphany depends on how far you’re willing to sink yourself into the Black Mirror world.
Black Mirror Season 7, now streaming on Netflix
