Black Mirror Season 7 Review – A Dystopian Return to Form

★★★★★ (5/out of 5)

Charlie Brooker's Black Mirror returns with its seventh season, premiering on Netflix on April 10, 2025. This season marks a significant shift, blending the series' hallmark technological critiques with deeper emotional narratives. The six episodes explore themes of memory, identity, and the human condition, offering both standalone stories and sequels that expand the Black Mirror universe.​

Episode Highlights (Spoilers Ahead

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1. Hotel Reverie

A visually stunning exploration of nostalgia and regret, this episode follows a woman who uses advanced technology to relive and alter her past cinematic experiences. As she becomes increasingly immersed, the lines between reality and fiction blur, leading to a poignant commentary on escapism and the desire to rewrite one's history.​

2. Common People

Set in a near-future society, this satirical episode critiques the privatization of healthcare. A couple navigates a system where medical services are subscription-based, highlighting the disparities and ethical dilemmas of commodified health. The narrative balances dark humor with a sobering look at societal inequalities.​

3. Plaything

A spiritual successor to Bandersnatch, this episode delves into the psyche of a former video game journalist haunted by a murder he committed in the 1990s. Featuring Will Poulter reprising his role as Colin Ritman, the story examines the consequences of choices and the blurred boundaries between player and character. The integration of a real-world mobile

game, Thronglets, enhances the immersive experience.​

4. Eulogy

This emotionally charged episode centers on Phillip, portrayed by Paul Giamatti, who revisits memories of a deceased loved one through AI technology. As he uncovers hidden aspects of their relationship, the narrative explores grief, memory, and the ethical implications of digital resurrection. Critics have lauded it as one of the series' most profound installments.​

5. Bête Noire

A suspenseful tale of revenge and digital identity, this episode follows a hacker who infiltrates a corporation responsible for a past tragedy. As she manipulates virtual environments and personas, the story raises questions about accountability and the permanence of online actions.​

6. USS Callister: Into Infinity

A direct sequel to the acclaimed USS Callister, this episode reunites the digital crew as they face new challenges in uncharted virtual territories. The narrative expands on themes of autonomy and consciousness within artificial worlds, delivering a satisfying continuation that honors the original while introducing fresh dynamics.​

Final Verdict

Season 7 of Black Mirror successfully revitalizes the series by intertwining its traditional technological dystopias with richer emotional storytelling. The episodes are thoughtfully crafted, offering both standalone narratives and interconnected arcs that deepen the Black Mirror mythos. With standout performances and innovative concepts, this season reaffirms the show's relevance in examining the complexities of modern society.