“Black Mirror” is back for another round of mostly-worrying near-future dystopia. The darkly satirical anthology series, created by Charlie Brooker, first premiered in 2011 and is now onto its seventh season, with all six episodes set to release on Netflix on April 10.
In this latest season, “Black Mirror” returns to its tech-focused roots with themes such as digitization, tiered-pricing, and video gaming, all explored through its usual bleak and sometimes bleakly comic lens. Artificial intelligence plays a significant role in several episodes, showcasing the potential dangers and ethical dilemmas that come with advanced technology.
One of the most exciting aspects of this season is the return of a sequel to a previous episode, with the spaceship from Season 4 favorite “USS Callister” making a comeback for another digital adventure. Brooker reveals that this sequel has been “long in the making” but was logistically difficult to arrange.
Joining the returning crewmates of Jesse Plemons and Cristin Milioti, this season features a star-studded cast including Paul Giamatti, Awkwafina, Harriet Walter, Issa Rae, Emma Corrin, Peter Capaldi, Rashida Jones, Chris O’Dowd, and more. The show has become renowned for its impressive lineup of actors who bring these futuristic scenarios to life.
In an interview with Variety, Brooker and executive producer Jessica Rhoades discuss the challenges of keeping “Black Mirror” fresh and relevant after over a decade since its inception. Brooker acknowledges the difficulty of meeting fan expectations while also pushing the boundaries of what a “Black Mirror” episode can be. The show has evolved to include a variety of tones, from hopeful and uplifting to dark and bleak, reflecting Brooker’s diverse storytelling interests.
Despite the show’s reputation for its dark and often disturbing themes, Brooker insists that there are moments of hope and optimism in this season. While some episodes may end with a “body blow,” others aim to evoke a bittersweet emotional response, showcasing the range of storytelling techniques employed in “Black Mirror.”
One episode in particular, titled “Common People,” appears to take a satirical jab at the commercialization of technology and the pressures of modern society. Brooker explains that the episode was inspired by observations of sponsored content in podcasts and the concept of “Inshitification,” where services degrade over time as they prioritize profit over user experience.
Another standout episode, “Eulogy,” starring Paul Giamatti, delivers an emotional and thought-provoking narrative that leaves viewers contemplating the implications of technological advancements. Rhoades describes the episode as bittersweet, capturing the reflective and introspective tone that defines much of this season.
As “Black Mirror” continues to captivate audiences with its unsettling visions of the future, Brooker and his team strive to push the boundaries of storytelling while maintaining the core themes that have made the series a genre-defining phenomenon. With its blend of dark humor, social commentary, and technological intrigue, the seventh season of “Black Mirror” promises to be another compelling and thought-provoking journey into the unknown. Exploring Missed Connections: A Reflection on Life
In the latest season of “Black Mirror,” two episodes titled “Hotel Reverie” and “Eulogy” delve into the concept of missed connections and how they can shape a character’s life. Co-written with Ella Road, “Eulogy” explores memory, evoked through photographs and music. The use of technology to excavate the past and present it in a new light, as seen in the “Get Back” documentary, serves as a rich source of inspiration for the show.
When asked about why they chose to revisit the episode “USS Callister” for a sequel, creator Charlie Brooker expressed his love for the characters and the cast. Director Toby Haynes was also eager to continue the story of the characters flying off into a new universe. Despite challenges like the pandemic and scheduling conflicts, the team was determined to bring the sequel to life.
For the first time in the show’s history, a sequel to an episode was attempted. The genre of “USS Callister” naturally lends itself to sequels, making it a fitting choice for further exploration. While there have been hints and easter eggs referencing past episodes, revisiting a storyline requires the right story and purpose, rather than being a mere repetition.
In another exciting return, Colin Ritman from “Bandersnatch” makes a reappearance in Season 7. The character’s surname is a nod to Jon Ritman, the renowned games designer of the 1980s. Brooker recalls spending hours playing Jon Ritman’s games as a child, making his name memorable. It is a tribute to the influential figures of that era, capturing the essence of their work in a unique way.
The decision to honor Jon Ritman’s legacy through a character in the show reflects the impact of his games on Brooker’s childhood. The appropriation of his surname is a homage to the lasting impression that his work left on a generation of gamers. With the return of Colin Ritman, Jon Ritman’s influence is once again celebrated, bridging the gap between past and present in a meaningful way.
Overall, the exploration of missed connections in “Black Mirror” offers a poignant reflection on life, memory, and the enduring impact of past experiences. Through sequels and character returns, the show continues to push boundaries and captivate audiences with its thought-provoking storytelling.
