Black Mirror, the British techno-dystopian series, has returned with its long-awaited Season 6 after a four-year hiatus. In a world where real life and Black Mirror seem to converge more and more each day, one might wonder what this season has left to say about our future. Surprisingly, Season 6 takes a different approach, with most episodes set in the past, making it the most un-Black Mirror-like season yet.
Despite the shift in setting, Season 6 is still worth watching, thanks to the show's enduring ambition. Each episode stands alone, adhering to its own internal logic, much like The Twilight Zone. The series captivates us with its sleek portrayal of counterfactual realities, forcing us to think deeply about the implications of technological advancements. However, with our reality catching up to Black Mirror, the show seems to have less to say about the unintended consequences of technology and more to say about the current state of affairs.
One standout episode from Season 6 is "Joan Is Awful." It perfectly captures the essence of Black Mirror with its depiction of a world where TV production has reached a frenetic pace, thanks to AI assistance. The episode explores themes of identity, privacy, and the consequences of giving consent without fully understanding the fine print. It cleverly bites the hand that feeds it, as the creators navigate the delicate balance of critiquing the industry while relying on the very platform that enables the show's success.
"Loch Henry" dives into the exploitative nature of true crime and the consequences of monetizing one's own trauma. While it may seem guilty of the same exploitation it criticizes, the episode delivers unexpected twists and a poignant ending that leaves a lasting impression.
"Beyond the Sea" takes us back to the 1960s during the space race and examines toxic masculinity both on Earth and in orbit. Despite being set in the past, the episode still incorporates Black Mirror's signature technology-driven narrative, allowing astronauts to experience life on Earth through replica bodies. It's a visually stunning episode with emotional performances that resonate.
"Mazey Day" and "Demon 79," the final two episodes, depart from the show's usual themes and settings. Set in the past, these episodes offer surprises and genre shifts that may initially feel out of place for Black Mirror. However, they still manage to capture the essence of the show and leave us with thought-provoking messages.
In the end, Season 6 of Black Mirror may not explore the unintended consequences of future technology as intensely as previous seasons, but it still manages to captivate and make us think. It reminds us that the show's creators, Charlie Brooker and Annabel Jones, are unafraid to take risks and fully commit to their vision. Each episode has its strengths and weaknesses, but the overall experience is undeniably intriguing.
So, if you're a fan of Black Mirror, Season 6 is definitely worth watching. It may not be the darkest or most futuristic season, but it continues to push boundaries and challenge our perceptions of technology and society. And in a world that feels increasingly like a Black Mirror episode itself, the show's ability to provoke thought and reflection remains as relevant as ever.