Picture a universe where loved ones could be resurrected through emails and social media interactions. Or how about a world where virtual reality video games feel a little too real, real enough to blur the lines between reality and imagination. Both of these situations plus many other fascinating worlds are present in Netflix’s brilliant but underrated program “Black Mirror.” Whether they’re perceived as parallel universes or near futures, the realities presented are equally as chilling as they are possible.
“Black Mirror” works as an anthology series, essentially meaning that every episode features a different setting, plot arc and group of characters all drawn together by an overlying theme. In this case, the dangers of modern technology connect the show. It poses questions other science fiction stories are too afraid to ask. What will it look like when social media completely overtakes our desire to be independent and individualistic? Is society as obsessed with violence as we think it is? “Black Mirror” isn’t afraid to tackle these sorts of subjects, questions that may seem outlandish at first, but in hindsight are relevant to the way we look at technology today.
These near distant realities aren’t as distant as they seem. In the season 2 finale, an episode called “The Waldo Moment,” a crude but persuasive blue avatar-esque bear named Waldo notorious for making fun of politicians finds himself running for public office. Waldo drew comparison to current President Donald Trump from several sources citing their similarities in dialogue, public image and the comedic aura of the campaign. In the season 2 premiere, “Be Right Back,” a grieving woman attempts to reincarnate her recently deceased boyfriend via his emails and social media encounters. Although this may seem wildly outlandish, a similar situation appeared recently when Eugenia Kudya, a San Francisco based entrepreneur, took all forms of electronic communication from her deceased best friend to create a robotic manifestation. The results were mixed, ranging from friends citing that it helped with the grieving process, to family members complaining about the lack of authenticity in the robotic messaging system.
“Black Mirror” makes bold and frightening predictions look effortless. The world today is filled with an infinite amount of positive features to technology. The Netflix program decides to examine the negative connotations of the same subject, exploring possible scenarios in where technology has conquered the human condition. The show’s sci-fi and futuristic atmosphere allows the viewer to feel as if these possibilities aren’t ready to happen in the world’s current status. However, when one takes a closer look, it’s evident that the power of technology is not to worry about in the future; the future is now.
