Billed as Twilight Zone for millennials, Black Mirror marries sardonic wit with sharp social commentary. Its episodes explore the relationship between humans and technology in an eerie alternate reality. In Street’s not–so–humble opinion, Black Mirror is the best show ever and you should definitely be watching. Read on for some can’t–miss episodes of this can’t–miss show.
For ugly crying
Be Right Back, S2E1
“Be Right Back” masterfully tackles the topic of human grief. The episode opens by introducing viewers to Martha and Ash's authentic and complicated love. Ash is killed in a car crash, causing Martha to descend into a deep mourning. She replaces him with a synthetic re–creation, struggling to swallow the painful truth that he’s never coming back. Every moment of the episode is haunting, heartbreaking, and crushingly human.
For spending time with that special someone
San Junipero, S3E4
“San Junipero” centers on the love story of fun–loving Kelly and shy Yorkie in an eighties resort town. The town looks like paradise—all neon lights, dramatic dunes and gorgeous coastlines. But, as with all Black Mirror episodes, what is pleasing and pleasant can only last for so long. “San Junipero” presents a love worth rooting for and an emotional arc that brings out all the feels.
Hang the DJ, S4E4
“Hang the DJ” is rife with social commentary on the trials and tribulations of modern dating. In an alternate reality, Siri–like devices take all the guesswork out of dating by placing users into trial romantic relationships to find their ultimate match. But lovebirds Amy and Frank have some doubts about the process.
For hiding under your fuzzy blanket convinced you are going to die
The Entire History of You, S1E3
Deeply disturbing, this episode takes place in a world where “grains” record everything people see, hear and do. Paranoid Liam suspects his wife Ffion is cheating, setting in motion an Orwellian series of events that will make you wonder if you’re being watched.
White Bear, S2E2
In this dystopian tale, a woman wakes up with no memory of who (or where) she is. She runs around town trying to discover clues, and what she learns will send shivers down the spines of even the most skeptical viewers.
For becoming cynical about everything and everyone
Fifteen Million Merits, S1E2
This episode presents a society of enclosed spaces with video screens covering every surface. People ride stationary bikes to power their surroundings (SoulCycle, anyone?), watch reality TV until their brains turn to mush and earn currency called “Merits.” In this strange new world, a worker named Abi auditions for a singing competition show.
Arkangel, S4E2
Gripping, enthralling and darkly satirical, this episode is Black Mirror at its best. In it, a stressed–out single mother inserts a cutting–edge device into her daughter Sarah. The device allows her to obsessively trace her fifteen–year–old’s activities, which include questionable activities with her much–older boyfriend. The episode is a portrait of helicopter parenting pushed to its absolute extremes, and the end will make you audibly gasp.
Nosedive, S3E1
“Nosedive” navigates a society where people rate each other for every interaction they have, and socioeconomic status is directly linked to these ratings. Reality morphs into a kitschy, aggressively friendly nightmare as citizens obsess over their ratings. Skewering social media and the status anxiety it can provoke, “Nosedive” is an insightful look into the images we curate for others.
