The sci-fi anthology series Black Mirror has returned to Netflix with its highly anticipated seventh season, which premiered on April 10, 2025. This new season consists of six episodes, including a follow-up to the acclaimed "USS Callister" episode from 2017 and a spin-off of the interactive film Black Mirror: Bandersnatch. Critics are praising Season 7 as a return to form, emphasizing its focus on sci-fi and technology-related conflicts.
The first episode, titled "Common People," features a touching story about a couple, played by Chris O'Dowd and Rashida Jones. The narrative follows the husband as he grapples with his wife's coma due to an inoperable brain tumor. A sales representative, portrayed by Tracee Ellis Ross, convinces him to subscribe to a service that uploads his wife's consciousness to the cloud, allowing her to survive surgery. Critics have noted that while the episode has clever moments and dark humor, it sometimes feels one-dimensional.
In "Bête Noire," a woman realizes that a new colleague from her past is sabotaging her. The episode builds tension through her inability to articulate the situation, but some reviewers felt that the resolution fell short of expectations.
Episode three, "Hotel Reverie," starring Issa Rae and Emma Corrin, is being hailed as one of the standout episodes of the season. It explores the use of AI in cinema, as Rae's character steps into a role originally played by Corrin's character in a remake of a classic romance. Critics have drawn parallels to the beloved episode "San Junipero," praising the chemistry between the two actresses.
However, not every episode has received glowing reviews. "Plaything," featuring Peter Capaldi as an electronics enthusiast, has been described as a miss. Critics felt it failed to create the unsettling atmosphere typical of Black Mirror, leaving some viewers underwhelmed.
On a more emotional note, "Eulogy" features Paul Giamatti as a man reflecting on memories of a former girlfriend while preparing for her memorial. This episode has been described as the most emotionally rich of the season, with Giamatti’s performance receiving particular acclaim.
Finally, the season concludes with "USS Callister: Into Infinity," which picks up the story of the crew from the original episode. In this sequel, the crew, led by Nanette (Cristin Milioti), must navigate the complexities of the game Infinity while dealing with the ramifications of their previous encounter with the villainous Robert Daly (Jesse Plemons). Critics have noted that while this sequel is entertaining, it lacks the sharpness of the original episode.
Overall, Season 7 of Black Mirror has been described as a blend of hope and darkness, with some episodes offering more optimistic conclusions than previous seasons. Critics have highlighted the emotional depth of the characters, suggesting that the new season strives to explore the human side of technology.
As always, Black Mirror is rich with Easter eggs and references that connect the episodes to the broader universe established in earlier seasons. For instance, the 'Nubbin' brain chip, a promotional gimmick from Netflix, is featured in multiple episodes, allowing characters to revisit memories and dreams. This chip is reminiscent of the technology seen in previous episodes, creating a sense of continuity within the show's universe.
The song “Anyone Who Knows What Love Is (Will Understand)” appears once again, serving as a haunting reminder of the show's themes of love and loss. This classic track has been woven into the fabric of the series since its inception, appearing in various episodes over the years.
Additionally, references to past episodes abound, with nods to characters and plotlines that longtime fans will appreciate. For example, the name of the school where Amanda (Rashida Jones) teaches is a tribute to Cooper Redfield from the "Playtest" episode, while the Ditta food company, which features prominently in "Bête Noire," ties back to earlier seasons.
As viewers dive into this new season, they are met with a mix of nostalgia and fresh ideas that challenge their perceptions of technology and its impact on human relationships. Critics agree that while some episodes may falter, the overall quality of Season 7 represents a significant step forward for the series, re-establishing its place in the realm of thought-provoking science fiction.
With its unique blend of humor, horror, and humanity, Black Mirror Season 7 is a testament to the show's ability to evolve while staying true to its roots. As creator Charlie Brooker continues to explore the complexities of the human experience in a tech-driven world, audiences can expect to be both entertained and challenged by the stories that unfold.
Fans of the series will undoubtedly find much to discuss as they unpack the layers of meaning embedded in each episode, making this season a worthy addition to the Black Mirror legacy.
