What is Black Mirror about?

Black Mirror is a compelling British anthology television series created by Charlie Brooker that has captivated audiences worldwide. With its unique blend of speculative fiction, sci-fi technology, and social commentary, the show explores a variety of genres while delving into near-future dystopias. Inspired by the classic series The Twilight Zone, Black Mirror uses the themes of technology and media to shed light on contemporary social issues. This article takes an in-depth look at the series, its evolution, and its impact on the television landscape.

An Anthology of Technological Dystopias

Black Mirror stands apart from conventional television series by adopting the anthology approach. Each episode presents a self-contained story with new characters, settings, and actors. The series boasts 27 episodes across six series and one special, accompanied by the groundbreaking interactive film, Black Mirror: Bandersnatch (2018). Initially airing on the British network Channel 4 in 2011 and 2013, the show transitioned to Netflix, where four subsequent series aired between 2016 and 2023. Netflix also produced two related webisode series, further expanding the show's narrative universe.

The Inspiration and Vision of Charlie Brooker

At the heart of Black Mirror's success is the vision of its creator, Charlie Brooker. Known primarily as a comedy writer before the series, Brooker drew inspiration from iconic shows like The Twilight Zone, Tales of the Unexpected, and Hammer House of Horror. He recognized the power of using fictional settings to comment on contemporary issues, much like The Twilight Zone's approach to tackling sensitive topics like racism. Brooker decided to explore the impact of technology on modern society, a theme he had previously touched upon in his series How TV Ruined Your Life (2011).

Crafting the Nightmares: Brooker's Writing Process

Charlie Brooker is the mastermind behind most episodes of Black Mirror. His creative process often starts with a what-if idea, sparked by discussions with executive producer Annabel Jones and others. The show's premise usually revolves around a worst-case scenario compounded, resulting in ideas that are both thought-provoking and, at times, darkly humorous.

To ensure authenticity in the storytelling, Brooker focuses on making the characters' actions feel genuine, even if they find themselves in unusual predicaments. While some episodes touch upon current events, Brooker prefers not to react directly to topical subjects, as their relevance may wane by the time of the episode's release.

The Evolution of Writing Style

Over the course of six series, Brooker's approach to writing evolved. In the early seasons, he would plan less and write the scripts as he went along. However, this led to the dropping of subplots and multiple rewrites, as seen in the episode "White Bear." Later, Brooker adopted a more structured approach, creating full outlines before drafting the scripts. This helped him envision the ending and streamline the writing process, even if the conclusion underwent changes later.

The Influence of Netflix and Experimentation

With the move to Netflix, Black Mirror gained more creative freedom. "San Junipero," the first episode produced for the streaming giant, marked a turning point. Brooker and his team experimented with the tone and explored more diverse storytelling styles. Feedback from Netflix played a crucial role in shaping the episodes.

Collaborations and Co-Writers

While Brooker remains the driving force behind most episodes, collaboration also plays a role. Notable instances include "The Entire History of You," written by Jesse Armstrong, and "Shut Up and Dance" and "USS Callister," co-credited with William Bridges. Brooker's wife, Konnie Huq, also received a co-credit for her contribution to "Fifteen Million Merits." Such collaborations bring fresh perspectives and enrich the storytelling process.

Innovative Production and Attention to Detail

Throughout the production process, Brooker and Annabel Jones maintain close involvement, from observing the filming to participating in the editing room. This hands-on approach ensures consistency and allows them to fine-tune various aspects, including technological user interfaces and logical consistencies.

Critical Acclaim and Impact on Television

Black Mirror's unique storytelling and thought-provoking narratives have garnered widespread acclaim. Many critics hail it as one of the best television series of the 2010s. The show's success is evident in its three consecutive Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Television Movie for episodes like "San Junipero," "USS Callister," and Bandersnatch.

Furthermore, Black Mirror, along with American Horror Story and Inside No. 9, has revitalized the anthology television format, winning over audiences with its gripping narratives and insightful commentary. Some episodes have even been praised for their prescience, accurately foreshadowing societal shifts and technological developments.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Black Mirror stands as a shining example of thought-provoking and innovative storytelling in the realm of television. Charlie Brooker's vision, combined with Netflix's creative freedom, has given birth to an anthology series that has left an indelible mark on popular culture. With its exploration of technology's impact on society and its skillful commentary on contemporary issues, Black Mirror continues to captivate and challenge viewers, cementing its status as a modern television classic.