An Analysis of TV Show ‘Black Mirror’ and Its Rankings

Like a Black Mirror superfan, I’ve come to develop a love for the show, as well as its message. Through visual representation, the Black mirror shows shockingly realistic expectations of future dystopian worlds. Drawing a close parallel with society today, the show utilizes the “what if?” aspect of our minds. Today, I’ll be rating each episode on a scale of 1-10.

The National Anthem: 2/10

If you’re a newcomer, do NOT watch this episode. Please, just move on to a different one. I won’t go into detail because it’s certainly not something that I’d like to recount, especially on the internet. 

Fifteen Million Merits: 10/10

I love this episode. It’s likely one of my favorite stories of all time. Combining a strikingly outlandish concept with a scary parallel to a dystopian capitalistic system utilizes a brain churning futuristic aspect. 

The Entire History of You: 7/10

The overall concept of technological advancement so profound that it becomes part of us is exceptionally realistic, giving this episode an inherently considerable weight. While (in my opinion) the storyline is instead a clique, the visuals of the attack are strikingly breathtaking. 

Be Right Back: 4/10

While the concept seems interesting in the abstract, this episode is hugely underwhelming. Many watchers tend to find this one quite appealing, but I’ve never really clicked with it. 

White Bear: 9/10

One word: WOW. The character development and evolution of this plot is impressive. I heavily recommend this episode, as I feel like the twist at the end is very representative of the overall message that Black Mirror enforces. 

The Waldo Moment: 6/10

This one seriously toes the line between realistic dystopia and absolute madness, but I like it nonetheless. 

White Christmas: 9.5/10

This episode nearly tops the list of my favorite chapters in the Black Mirror saga. With a mind-bending plot, it’s a beautiful introduction to the fundamental meaning behind Black Mirror.

Nosedive: 11/10

This episode is by far my favorite in the series because it’s likely the most realistic. Set in a society based where your class is based on a social media ranking, it speaks to the impact that phones and technology can have on our lives. 

Playtest: 1/10

In all honesty, I never even finished this episode. While this may be a personal bias, I hate the horror genre.

Shut Up and Dance: 8/10

This episode seems familiar up until the end when you’re hit with an unforgettable twist.

San Junipero: 7.5/10

Understanding this episode takes a lot of brainpower, but It’s worth it. I didn’t truly understand the plot until rewatching, but the screenplay is impressive. 

Men Against Fire: -/10

I haven’t gotten around to watching this, even after viewing the entire series on two separate occasions. 

Hated in The Nation: -/10

Oops, I can’t call myself a superfan if I skip episodes. 

USS Callister: 10.5/10

A beautiful combination of reality and fiction that I’ve watched over and over again. This episode is stunning, and I would heavily recommend it to anyone interested in the series. 

ArkAngel: 6/10

Another superb concept with a merely decent execution. This episode could’ve been so good, but they ended up focusing on the wrong things!

Crocodile: 3/10

Eh, I wasn’t exactly a fan of this. It seemed relatively normal.

Hang the DJ: 9/10

This episode takes an exciting term on the concept of online dating. The ending (while climactic and thought-provoking) is pretty anticlimactic, as it essentially discredits the whole plot. However, everything besides the story is terrific. 

MetalHead: 0/10

I could never get past the color scheme, and that partially ruined the whole episode for me. 

Black Museum: 8/10

Made up of multiple stories, this episode is a perfect ending for season 4. Utilizing all the outstanding elements presented in previous stories, it’s enjoyable to watch.

Striking Vipers: 6/10

Interesting, but weird. This episode is generally considered the most uncomfortable one in the series, so I wouldn’t recommend watching it as your first dive into Black Mirror culture. 

Smithereens: 5/10

While this story is more on the Black Mirror series’s practical side, it’s too realistic to be substantially attractive. 

Rachel, Jack, and Ashley Too: 4/10

This episode was pretty disappointing, as it’s not exactly one to remember. I wouldn’t recommend watching it.