Black Mirror, the sci-fi anthology series created by Charlie Brooker, has captivated audiences worldwide with its thought-provoking and often unsettling tales. Drawing inspiration from real-world technology and societal issues, Black Mirror presents a dark and twisted reflection of our modern world.
If you want to see what all the fuss is about — we explore the 10 best Black Mirror episodes that have left viewers speechless and pondering the implications of our ever-evolving technological landscape.
1. White Christmas
Season 2, Episode 4 (2014)
IMDb Rating: 9.1/10
Considered by many as the best Black Mirror episode, “White Christmas” takes us on a chilling journey through three interconnected stories. Starring Jon Hamm and Rafe Spall, this Christmas special explores the dark side of technology, featuring concepts like “cookies” – digital replicas of people used as personal assistants – and “blocking,” a form of social isolation. With horror elements and a focus on human connection, “White Christmas” leaves a lasting impact on its audience.
2. San Junipero
Season 3, Episode 4 (2016)
IMDb Rating: 8.6/10
In stark contrast to the usual dark tone of Black Mirror, “San Junipero” offers a heartwarming and nostalgic narrative. Set in a simulated reality created for the elderly, the episode follows Yorkie (Mackenzie Davis) and Kelly (Gugu Mabtha-Raw) as they explore a beach resort town where they can relive their younger years through avatars. With excellent performances and a touching storyline, “San Junipero” stands out as one of the most moving episodes in the series.
3. Hang the DJ
Season 4, Episode 4 (2017)
IMDb Rating: 8.7/10
“Hang the DJ” delves into the world of online dating with a unique Black Mirror twist. Frank (Joe Cole) and Amy (Georgina Campbell) are matched by a dating app that determines the duration of their relationship. As they navigate their connection, they begin to question if they are trapped in a simulation. Drawing parallels to Yorgos Lanthimos’ film “The Lobster,” this romantic comedy explores themes of love, free will, and the role of technology in modern relationships.
4. Black Museum
Season 4, Episode 6 (2017)
IMDb Rating: 8.6/10
“Black Museum” takes viewers on a captivating tour of a museum filled with intriguing artifacts from previous Black Mirror episodes. Letitia Wright stars as Nish, a woman with a hidden agenda. This meta-episode includes references and Easter eggs, making it a must-watch for fans of the series. With its interconnected stories and exploration of the darker side of technology, “Black Museum” offers a unique and thrilling viewing experience.
5. The Entire History of You
Season 1, Episode 3 (2011)
IMDb Rating: 8.5/10
“The Entire History of You” presents a world where a technology allows people to record everything they see and hear. Lawyer Liam (Toby Kebbell) becomes obsessed with finding signs of infidelity in his recorded memories of his wife Ffion (Jodie Whittaker). This episode, written by Jesse Armstrong, explores themes of memory, self-deception, and the consequences of constant surveillance. It offers a thought-provoking examination of the potential downsides of advanced personal recording devices.
6. Hated in the Nation
Season 3, Episode 6 (2016)
IMDb Rating: 8.5/10
This spin on a police procedural follows detectives investigating a string of murders targeting victims of online abuse. Swarms of tiny robot bees, created due to the decline of real bees, become the murder weapon. “Hated in the Nation” tackles issues like social media mobbing and environmental collapse, delivering a hard-hitting and suspenseful episode. With its unique take on online shaming, this episode challenges viewers to consider the consequences of their actions in the digital age.
7. Shut Up and Dance
Season 3, Episode 3 (2016)
IMDb Rating: 8.4/10
“Shut Up and Dance” presents a horrifying scenario in which a teenager named Kenny (Alex Lawther) is blackmailed by a hacker who gains control of a video of him masturbating. Forced to carry out increasingly criminal acts, Kenny’s life spirals out of control. This dark and intense episode explores themes of surveillance, cybercrime, and the lengths people will go to protect their secrets. Lawther and Jerome Flynn deliver powerful performances, making “Shut Up and Dance” an unforgettable viewing experience.
8. Nosedive
Season 3, Episode 1 (2016)
IMDb Rating: 8.3/10
“Nosedive” takes a satirical look at the obsession with social media and status games. In a world where people rate each other on a five-star scale, Lacie (Bryce Dallas Howard) seeks to raise her score to improve her social standing. Directed by Joe Wright, this pastel-colored nightmare highlights the toxic effects of social media and the dangers of obsessing over society’s approval. With its biting commentary and stunning visuals, “Nosedive” serves as a cautionary tale in the age of social media.
9. USS Callister
Season 4, Episode 1 (2017)
IMDb Rating: 8.3/10
“USS Callister” takes a deep dive into the world of virtual reality gaming. Robert Daly (Jesse Plemons), a bitter software developer, creates avatars of his co-workers inside a Star Trek-inspired game. Robert dominates these digital clones until one of them (Cristin Milioti) rebels against him. This episode showcases great performances and pays homage to sci-fi shows while exploring power dynamics and the consequences of unchecked technological control. With its entertaining narrative and optimistic ending, “USS Callister” is a standout episode.
10. Playtest
Season 3, Episode 2 (2016)
IMDb Rating: 8.1/10
“Playtest” plunges viewers into the realm of augmented reality gaming. Wyatt Russell stars as a man who agrees to test a video game that taps into players’ worst fears. As the game turns more frightening than intended, the lines between reality and simulation blur. This psychological horror piece raises intriguing questions about the use of technology to escape reality and its impact on our psychology. With its chilling atmosphere and relevant themes, “Playtest” is a must-watch for fans of the horror genre.