Black Mirror Season 6 Review: Exploring Netflix’s Resurgence in Sci-Fi Brilliance

‘Black Mirror’ Season 6 Is a Refreshingly Uncynical Return to Form: TV Review

An Exploration of Technology and Human Interaction

The highly anticipated sixth season of the hit TV series, “Black Mirror,” has finally arrived, and it is a refreshing return to form. Created by Charlie Brooker, the show has gained a devoted following for its thought-provoking exploration of the impact of technology on human interaction and society. This latest season continues to delve into the dark and dystopian aspects of our relationship with technology, but with a new twist: a sense of hope.

A Reflexive Comment on Streaming and Technology

In the first episode, titled “Joan Is Awful,” the show cleverly comments on its own medium by depicting a couple sitting on their couch, deciding what to stream for the evening. This scene is familiar to viewers, as it mirrors our own experiences of choosing what to watch on streaming platforms. However, in typical “Black Mirror” fashion, the choice of programming has mind-bending consequences. The episode also introduces the fictional streaming service “Streamberry,” which bears a striking resemblance to Netflix in both aesthetics and industry dominance.

This incorporation of streaming technology into the narrative is a testament to the evolution of the show itself, which found its home on Netflix in 2016. The platform’s technology enabled the creation of the groundbreaking “interactive film” episode, “Bandersnatch,” in 2018. The global distribution and algorithmic pushes of streaming services like Netflix have become integral to the show’s exploration of the ways technology has altered human existence.

The Themes of Fame and Human Curiosity

While technology remains at the core of “Black Mirror,” the new season also tackles broader themes such as fame and human curiosity. In episodes like “Beyond the Sea” and “Mazey Day,” technology takes a backseat as the focus shifts to the consequences of pursuing fame and the destructive nature of human inquiry. These episodes remind us that these themes transcend advancements in technology and have been part of human nature long before the digital age.

In “Loch Henry” and “Mazey Day,” the use of technology is minimal, with VHS tapes and telephoto lenses serving as the tools for exploration. These episodes emphasize the danger of nosing out secrets and the irresistible allure of fame, even in a time when anonymity still held some semblance of safety. By delving into these more universal concerns, the show expands its scope and appeals to a wider audience.

A Departure into Horror and Hope

One of the standout episodes of the season is “Demon 79,” a deliberately shifting installment that serves as an outright horror story. This episode takes a departure from the show’s usual format and introduces elements of pulp thriller, addressing issues of prejudice, personal reckoning, and the question of when it is justified to take a life. It is a testament to the power of pulp storytelling to explore complex and weighty themes.

This season also showcases Brooker’s willingness to take risks and experiment with his storytelling. Even in the midst of dark and dystopian narratives, there is a strange sense of hope that permeates the season. The characters, regardless of their circumstances, are portrayed with greater depth, highlighting their humanity amidst the overwhelming influence of technology.

Conclusion: A Season of Exploration and Growth

Overall, “Black Mirror” Season 6 is a compelling and thought-provoking return to form. It continues to push the boundaries of storytelling in the age of technology while expanding its thematic scope. The incorporation of streaming culture and the exploration of fame, human curiosity, and personal agency demonstrate the show’s ability to adapt and evolve.

While certain episodes stand out as stronger than others, the season as a whole reflects the growth of the show and its creator. Charlie Brooker’s willingness to embrace diverse storytelling styles and introduce elements of horror and hope opens up new possibilities for the future of “Black Mirror.” It is a testament to the power of speculative fiction to challenge and engage audiences in important conversations about the impact of technology on society.