Charlie Brooker, the creative mind behind the hit series Black Mirror, has acknowledged the profound impact of the pandemic on his dystopian anthology. With the unsettling reality unfolding before our eyes, the question arose: Who had the mental space to delve into science fiction tales that magnify the world’s horrors?
In response, Brooker has taken a unique approach to redefine the essence of Black Mirror. The long-awaited sixth season, available for streaming today, retains the core essence of the show while incorporating intriguing twists. Several episodes venture into the past, offering captivating narratives that resonate with audiences. Moreover, one episode playfully satirizes society’s obsession with true crime, serving as a subtle dig at the platform that hosts Black Mirror itself—Netflix. However, the pinnacle of the season lies in its contemplation of early 21st-century celebrity culture, which transforms into a mind-bending finale, tantalizing viewers with an ending that lingers.
Regrettably, the season commences with the least impactful episode, “Joan Is Awful.” The storyline revolves around Annie Murphy’s portrayal of a mid-level tech manager whose life turns into a melodramatic soap opera on the streaming service “Streamberry,” a not-so-subtle nod to Netflix. Salma Hayek plays the character of “Television” Joan, who aims to expose the repulsiveness of her alter-ego, including her ill-conceived plan to discuss her mundane boyfriend with an unpredictable ex, played by Rob Delaney. Brooker’s attempt to roast Netflix falls short, lacking substantial commentary on the effects of binge viewing.
On a more gratifying note, “Loch Henry” takes a critical stab at society’s obsession with true crime. Unveiling long-buried secrets, reconnecting old friends, and featuring a chilling torture dungeon from the 1990s, the episode successfully highlights how the true crime genre commodifies suffering. Brooker skillfully navigates this theme without diminishing the episode’s entertainment value. With its intelligent storytelling, blood-soaked scenes, and whimsical elements, “Loch Henry” exemplifies Black Mirror at its finest, firing on all cylinders.
However, the season takes a somber turn with “Beyond the Sea,” a tale set in the 1960s, where astronauts Aaron Paul and Josh Hartnett embark on a deep-space mission. Coping with isolation, they resort to transmitting their consciousness back to remote artificial bodies on Earth, leading seemingly idyllic lives with their wives, played by Kate Mara and other notable cast members. Directed with wistful flair by Cork filmmaker John Crowley, known for his work on “Brooklyn,” this episode presents a melancholic exploration of human connection.
Black Mirror concludes its latest installment with two standout episodes. “Mazey Day,” set in 2006, follows the trials of a troubled young actress, portrayed by Clara Rugaard, as she navigates the treacherous gauntlet of paparazzi. However, her life takes an unexpected turn when a distressing incident during filming in central Europe forces her into hiding.
The final episode, “Demon 79,” filmed in the flamboyantly gory style reminiscent of Hammer horror films, follows the journey of a timid sales assistant, portrayed by Anjana Vasan, who accidentally awakens a demonic force. The diabolical charmer, played by Paapa Essiedu, presents her with a daunting ultimatum: commit unspeakable acts or witness the world succumb to flames.
While providing great entertainment, “Demon 79” delivers a sobering message. Set in the 1970s, the episode allows Brooker to comment on the manipulation of anti-immigrant sentiment by incendiary politicians. It compels viewers to confront the unsettling question of whether our attitudes towards outsiders have truly evolved as much as we would like to believe. In this season of Black Mirror, the true threat to our world lies not in artificial intelligence or killer robots, but in the depths of human wickedness.
As the latest installment draws to a close, it serves as a reminder that beneath the surface of our technological advancements, the flaws and darkness within humanity persist. Brooker skillfully weaves together captivating narratives that explore the consequences of our actions and the unsettling potential for evil that resides within us all.
Amidst the chaos and uncertainty of our modern world, Black Mirror continues to push the boundaries of storytelling, urging viewers to reflect on the fragile nature of our society and the choices we make. By exposing the pitfalls of our obsession with technology, true crime, and fame, this season invites us to confront uncomfortable truths about ourselves and the world we inhabit.
While the opening episode may falter, the subsequent episodes of this sixth season reignite the show’s brilliance, offering a diverse range of thought-provoking narratives that captivate and disturb in equal measure. With each installment, Brooker deftly tackles pressing societal issues and explores the darkest recesses of the human psyche, leaving audiences both enthralled and unsettled.
As we bid farewell to another gripping season of Black Mirror, we are left with a lingering question: Can we rise above the evils that lurk within us and create a future that transcends our dystopian tendencies? Only time will tell. Until then, we must grapple with the uncomfortable truths unearthed by the dark mirror that reflects our own humanity.
Black Mirror’s sixth season is now available for streaming, offering a thought-provoking journey that delves into the complexities of our modern world. Prepare to be mesmerized, disturbed, and ultimately compelled to ponder the true nature of the human condition.
