Blackmirror Series 7 - Netflix - April 10
Black Mirror Season 7 premiered on Netflix on April 10, 2025, featuring six standalone episodes that delve into dystopian themes with a renewed emotional depth. Here's a concise overview of each episode: 1. Common People A schoolteacher's life hangs in the balance after a medical emergency, prompting her husband to enroll her in Rivermind—a high-tech system that sustains her life at a significant cost. This episode critiques healthcare privatization and digital dependency, with performances by Chris O’Dowd, Rashida Jones, and Tracee Ellis Ross. 2. Bête Noire Confectionery prodigy Maria becomes unsettled when her former schoolmate Verity joins a focus group for one of her creations. As Maria senses something amiss, the episode unfolds into a narrative about memory tampering and social revenge. Starring Siena Kelly and Rosy McEwen, it offers a haunting exploration of gaslighting and psychological manipulation. 3. Hotel Reverie Set in 1940s Hollywood, this episode explores AI technology that allows actors to be placed into classic films. Emma Corrin portrays Clara Ryce-Lechere, an AI-created character who becomes the love interest of Issa Rae's character, Brandy Friday. Their on-screen chemistry has been praised, with critics likening the episode to the beloved "San Junipero" for its simulated, era-specific queer love story. 4. Plaything This episode revisits the interactive narrative style reminiscent of "Bandersnatch." Featuring Peter Capaldi, it delves into the complexities of choice and control within a video game setting. While the concept is imaginative, some critics feel it suffers from heavy exposition. 5. Eulogy Starring Paul Giamatti, this emotionally resonant story explores memory and regret. The narrative offers a touching, analog reflection on forgotten love, showcasing Giamatti's compelling performance. 6. USS Callister: Into Infinity A sequel to the Season 4 episode "USS Callister," this installment continues the space-faring saga with high-stakes adventure and humor. While it delivers on action, some critics view it as less compelling due to its lack of novelty. Season 7 of Black Mirror maintains the series' signature blend of speculative fiction and societal critique, offering a mix of chilling dystopian visions and heartfelt storytelling.
