Black Mirror Season 4 Review: Continues It's Cautionary Tales Of Technology Gone Awry

"Black Mirror" season 4 is currently playing on NetFlix. The previous three seasons were produced in the UK before making the switch. For those unfamiliar with the series, "Black Mirror" is a sci fi/horror anthology that explores the effects of technology on humanity. Be Forewarned: Most of the episodes do NOT have happy endings. The one notable exception is San Junipero which won an Emmy last year. See my previous reviews here

Season 4 consists of six episodes. They are:

"USS Callister"- A "Star Trek-like" episode. In this version, the crew members are most definitely NOT there of their own accord. "Callister" serves as a reminder to never trust those quiet IT geeks (cause they might be plotting to do something horrible to ya). This episode has gotten the most air play due in part to its famous cast-- including Jimmi Simpson from "Westworld".
"Arkangel"- Directed by Jodi Foster, "Arkangel" takes "helicopter parenting" to a whole new level. A young girl has an implant which allows her mother to monitor/spy on her every move. Mom can filter out any potential dangers such as barking dogs. We all know the woman loves her daughter and simple wants to protect her. However what effect does such "codding" have on the child when she grows up? Being sheltered from bad things makes her unable to handle them in the future. Obviously things dont work as expected for either party.
"Crocodile"- A women (Mia) tries to cover up a series of progressively heinous crimes. What thwarts her is a technology in which people's memories can be recovered and analyzed in minute detail. It's called a "memory dredger". "Crocodile" is the most shocking and best episode of the series IMHO. I know others will disagree... but you have to give the show bonus points for going "there".
"Hang The DJ"- The challenges of dating in the future thanks to an app that can find your perfect mate. You should be afraid to swipe right (or left) after this episode. It is the episode most like last year's "San Junipero" in which true love wins against all odds.
"Metalhead"- This episode is the only one filmed in black and white, the shortest (40 minutest total) and has little dialogue. Think "Terminator" meets "Robot Dog" and you have a good idea where "Metalhead" is going. Maxine Peake does an excellent depicting the struggle to survive against a completely overwhelming foe. I enjoyed the episode but would have liked more. Who is in charge of the killer dogs? What caused this apocalyptic world?
"Black Museum"- I initially thought this episode was taking the "Hostel" route but it turned out to be something quite different. In the beginning, a technology is developed so doctors can feel patient's pain (in order to better diagnose them). Instead of using the power for good, a doctor develops "algolagia"-- sexual gratification caused by pain. He performs more and more drastic acts in order to get his fix. And you can fill in the blanks. Next up is a toy monkey who contains a woman's consciousness. Very sad. I wont discuss the main event so as not to ruin it for ya. Suffice to say, its thought provoking and horrifying. Just a reminder kids: NEVER STOP AT ROADSIDE ATTRACTIONS IF YOU WANT TO LIVE.

Grade: 4 1/2 Monsters (out of 5). Some of the episodes felt a little lacking ("Arkangel" and "MetalHead") but I still very much enjoyed the season. "Black Mirror" makes us examine what affect technology has on us (and it's often not pretty). The ending twists are still a highlight of the show. And for obsessive fans, check out how all the episodes of the series are related here

"Black Mirror" season 4 has a number of women playing leading roles in each episode. It's great that the ladies are front and center in a genre (sci fi) typically male focused.