B Movies Blog

Hello, Movie Mavens! Welcome back to the B Movies blog. Today, we’re popping the latest season of Black Mirror into the ol’ VCR. 

If I had to use one word to describe the latest season of Black Mirror, it would be captivating. 

Seriously. 

I was locked in for every single episode of the season in a way that I haven’t previously been. 

IMHO, this is the strongest overall season of Black Mirror we’ve seen thus far. 

Now, that’s not to say that I don’t think there have been some BANGERS over the years, but I’ve never been engrossed in every single episode of a season before. 

From exceptional writing to countless Easter eggs from previous episodes, this season is just *chef’s kiss*. 

As we did last season, I’m going to give a quick review of each episode, but also add in an overall episode ranking, as well as a quick little x/10 ranking per episode. 

Without further ado, let’s dive into this season of Black Mirror: 

Common People (9/10) 

I think it was the right move making this the opening episode of the season. It’s surprisingly heartfelt and plays in the space where Black Mirror thrives. Chris O’Dowd and Rashida Jones have excellent chemistry, and I think it’s relatable in a way that almost hits too close to home for those who have had to deal with our healthcare system.

Bête Noire (8.5/10) 

I love the entire setup of this episode because you feel the same sense of disorientation and hopelessness as Maria (Siena Kelly) throughout. I also feel like this is a remnant of last season, wherein Charlie Brooker showed off his horror chops. I don’t think this is the weakest episode of the season, but I think the ending could be slightly tweaked to pack more of a punch.

Hotel Reverie (10/10) 

This is one of my new favorite episodes of Black Mirror. Period. Issa Rae is a tour de force, and the way I was sobbing throughout. WOOF. I think it should be a requirement for every season of the series to have a sapphic episode like this because between this and San Junipero, my god.

Plaything (8/10) 

While I do think Plaything is the weakest episode of the season, I was still smitten with it. I love the Bandersnatch connection, and I think the concept is excellent. Plus, Peter Capaldi is a true scene-stealer. 

Eulogy (10/10)

While Hotel Reverie is one of my favorite episodes, I think Eulogy barely etches it out of the running for the strongest episode of the season. Ths episode’s writing all but had me standing up to applaud, and the cinematography is breathtaking. IMHO, it’s a perfect episode. Additionally, Paul Giamatti’s monologue in the restaurant is a master class in acting and should be studied by all aspiring actors. 

USS Callister: Into Infinity (9.5/10) 

Man, what a follow up to the original. Sitting at almost 90 minutes, this episode takes its time without wasting space (in some cases, literally) or dragging. We get a satisfying conclusion to a dark story and get to see Nanette’s (Cristin Milioti) hero’s journey conclude without feeling forced. However, I would definitely recommend rewatching the first part from season four first.

Overall Episode Ranking 

Okay, after running the numbers, here’s what my final ranking looks like: 

6. Plaything 

5. Bête Noire

4. Common People 

3. USS Callister: Into Infinity 

2. Hotel Reverie 

1. Eulogy (by a hair) 

As always, please keep in mind that I’m just a silly goose who writes about pop culture on the internet. Your ranking may be different, and that’s okay! I don’t think a single episode of this season misses, so my hope is that a) you watch it and b) that the next season hits this hard.