Black Mirror, Season 7 (Netflix) 

By: Rachel Brodeur

The title Black Mirror refers to the reflective surface of a turned-off screen—be it a phone, tablet, or television. These screens mirror the people and society around them, and in this way, the series acts as a dark satire, holding a mirror up to our world. Created by Charlie Brooker, each episode is written by Brooker himself but is brought to life by a talented lineup of directors and casts. As a result, every episode has its own distinct tone and style. Still, they all share a central theme: humanity’s complex relationship with technology.

Some episodes depict worlds nearly identical to our own, with just a slight technological twist. Others explore bold, high-concept futures—some even spanning multiple planets. Much like previous generations enjoyed The Twilight Zone, Black Mirror is an anthology, meaning viewers can jump in at any point without needing to watch previous seasons. This is especially welcoming for new viewers hesitant to start a series seven seasons deep. The only exception is the final episode of season seven, “USS Callister: Into Infinity,” which is a direct continuation of the season four episode “USS Callister.”

Season seven maintains the series’ tradition of innovation and sharp commentary. The standout episode is “Eulogy,” anchored by a nuanced and heartfelt performance from Oscar nominee Paul Giamatti as a flawed protagonist. Episode one delivers the most biting social satire, targeting themes of marriage and financial insecurity. Episode three, “Hotel Reverie” is a treat for classic film buffs and fans of old Hollywood. Meanwhile, episode four, “Plaything,” has become an instant hit with the gaming community—even inspiring a playable video game available in the app store.

It’s unusual to be reviewing a show seven seasons in, but Black Mirror remains as vital and provocative as ever. For seven years, it’s been one of the best reasons to have a Netflix subscription. With 29 wins out of 99 award nominations, the show’s critical acclaim speaks for itself. Season seven upholds the high standard of excellence fans have come to expect, offering a fresh, thought-provoking experience in every episode.

Rachel’s Rating: 9.5/10

Black Mirror is a thought-provoking anthology series that explores the evolving—and often unsettling—relationship between people and technology. With each episode offering a unique world and tone, the show invites reflection on modern society through speculative storytelling. Now in its seventh season, it continues to captivate with inventive narratives, strong performances, and sharp cultural insights.