“Black Mirror” leaves viewers questioning society’s morality after only one episode in its newest season. Through absurdly dystopian concepts, it is uniquely thought provoking, revealing the complex, philosophical attributes of society that expose smaller, subliminal corruptions in our lives. Recent technological developments since Season 6 in 2023 influenced new messaging that “Black Mirror” has not explored before. However, the season falls off-track at times, holding both highs and lows. I have rated each episode to show which exceed expectations and which fall short.
Episode 1. “Common People” 8/10
“Common People” opens the season with intensity, following a couple torn apart by crisis. The episode emphasizes the ethical extremes humans take to preserve valuable relationships. It critiques corporate exploitation of human vulnerability, exposing society’s ideology that profit should be prioritized over humanity. “Common People” excels with its depth and ability to uphold the show’s originality.
Episode 2. “Bête Noire” 6/10
Although this episode has a clever story arc, it falls short in its messaging. Bête Noire is “a person or thing that one particularly dislikes” — a fitting title for an episode about gaslighting and personal vendettas. While the footage is visually engaging, the episode feels out of place as a mystery-thriller rather than a social commentary.
Episode 3. “Hotel Reverie” 5/10
A forbidden love story between two women of different eras, “Hotel Reverie” uses futuristic technology to portray intimacy and rebellion. It pushes boundaries, exploring how human connection can look in a dystopian world. However, while the story is tenderly unsettling, its plot lacks originality and the dialogue drags on.
Episode 4. “Plaything” 8/10
“Plaything” is a wild journey; in an interrogation with the main suspect of a murder, we are brought through the events leading up to the crime. The suspect describes his gradual descent into paranoia and aggression as he discovers society’s hidden secrets through a video game code. This episode is visually evocative, allowing viewers to see through the eyes of someone using destructive substances. The plot was amazing, offering insight on the dangers of escapism and delusion.
Episode 5. “Eulogy” 10/10
In “Eulogy,” the past comes to life with a new device that immerses users in old photographs. A man uses the technology, reconvening with a suppressed lover. From its amazing execution of regret to its thorough bitter-sweetness of fleeting memories, this episode’s attention to detail blew me away.
Episode 6. “USS Callister: Into Infinity” 7/10
A space adventure is the perfect way to follow “Eulogy.” This episode is fun and engaging from the start. However, this is a sequel to its preceding episodic in Season 4 so, it is necessary to view first. Regardless, the excitement carries through until the end, marking a great completion to Season 7.
