Black Mirror: The Ultimate Ranking of Season 6 Episodes!

Black Mirror season 6 presents five new episodes, each showcasing unique variations in quality and execution, making it necessary to rank them. Since its debut in 2011, the acclaimed Netflix series has consistently delivered captivating and groundbreaking narratives, predominantly exploring dystopian themes and the detrimental effects of technology on society. With a total of 27 episodes, the anthology has consistently delivered thought-provoking and awe-inspiring cautionary tales, shedding light on how technology, whether cutting-edge or antiquated, can manipulate culture, exploit individuals, and redefine the very essence of human existence.

Some of the most captivating episodes from previous seasons of Black Mirror introduced imaginative yet potentially feasible technological gadgets and software, raising the timeless question of whether just because we have the capability, it means we should pursue it. While other episodes veer away from the technological focus, they delve into another vital aspect of Black Mirror, which is its self-reflective commentary on society. In the sixth season of Black Mirror, a combination of both types of episodes can be found, but some excel in weaving these central themes into a gripping narrative more effectively than others. Presented below are the rankings of all five episodes of Black Mirror season 6 based on their premise, plot, and overall impact.

5 Mazey Day

Mazey Day captivates right from its opening scene. Zazie Beetz effortlessly portrays the character of Bo, who exudes a deadpan and perceptive demeanor similar to her stylish and ambitious character Van in Atlanta. The episode transports us to the early 2000s, a time when iPods lacked screens and laptops couldn't connect to WiFi. However, it doesn't take us back far enough to the days when long lines at Starbucks for vanilla lattes were unheard of. Bo's Canon DSLR camera and the obnoxious celebrity radio serve as reminders that even twenty years ago, the obsession with celebrities and the intrusive nature of paparazzi were just as prevalent in the pop culture business.

The episode, although fast-paced and lacking in development, effectively captures the suspense and action against the backdrop of a sun-drenched Los Angeles. It incorporates thrilling elements reminiscent of heist movies and mystery narratives, which unfortunately are not fully utilized by the end of Mazey Day. The inclusion of a supernatural twist, revealing the celebrity as a werewolf by night, feels forced and out of place in the world of Black Mirror. Despite a somewhat redeeming poetic final shot, it ultimately feels like a missed opportunity to explore deeper themes and offer a more impactful conclusion.

4 Demon 79

Demon 79, advertised as a Red Mirror production, falls within Charlie Booker's label for content related to the Black Mirror universe. However, unlike the usual science fiction or technology-focused themes, Demon 79 does not fit into these categories. While the Red Mirror tag clarifies this distinction, it can be disappointing for fans of Black Mirror to encounter an episode that deviates from the show's celebrated content. In Demon 79, there are stylistic references to 70s horror films, which add enjoyment to the episode but ultimately lack relevance to the story and its message.

Black Mirror season 6, episode 5 aptly portrays the blatant racial discrimination experienced by individuals of Indian and Pakistani descent during that specific time period. It is an intriguing subject for Black Mirror to tackle, as it sheds light on a significant reality of the era in which Demon 79 unfolds. While the episode explores supernatural and pseudo-spiritual elements that comment on the outward appearance of individuals with mental health conditions, it lacks the focused intensity that defines every exceptional Black Mirror installment. The fantastical conclusion of Demon 79 solidifies the notion that the episode lacks any meaningful cautionary message.

3 Joan Is Awful

Joan Is Awful presents a unique and metaphysical critique of the platform it is displayed on, offering a satisfying and authentic addition to the Black Mirror universe. While Level 1 fictive Joan (Annie Murphy), as explained by Michael Cera, may not be inherently bad, she is portrayed as such by the Netflix-parody service Streamberry, which systematically ruins her life. This first episode of Black Mirror season 6 encompasses all the essential elements of the series, featuring a technologically advanced future that feels within reach and provides a critique of profit-driven corporations that impact social connectivity and diminish the quality of human life.

Joan Is Awful falls short in its sharp wit and lacksluster dialogue that borders on being Marvel-like. While the initial hook of Joan is Awful is undeniably one of the strongest of Black Mirror season 6, the justification for several crucial plot developments fails to add up or deliver on its gripping premise. For instance, the explanation of the terms and conditions, which render Joan powerless against Streamberry, appears unrealistic as there are legal and ethical limitations on the language that can be included in user agreement contracts. Despite some narrative inconsistencies, Joan Is Awful succeeds in presenting a plausible vision of artificial intelligence autonomously writing, producing, and editing content in the future.

2 Loch Henry

Loch Henry is an exceptional depiction of the true crime and murder mystery genre, seamlessly blending into the captivating world of Black Mirror. Throughout season 6, it presents a thought-provoking critique on the entertainment industry, shedding light on the lack of empathy in transforming real-life tragedies into a grandiose Hollywood production. Despite not initially resembling a typical Black Mirror episode, Loch Henry boasts the most compelling and well-crafted storyline of the season. Its concluding cultural analysis delves into the insatiable desire for recognition and influence that accompanies involvement in award-winning content.

The characters in Loch Henry captivate the audience, especially Stuart, the bartender portrayed by Daniel Portman, known for his role in Game of Thrones. Although certain plot elements feel rushed, such as Pia's sudden death from slipping on a wet rock, the episode's major twist is both surprising and terrifying. While Loch Henry may lack a fresh technological angle, some may view it as unimaginative or lazy. However, the episode's commentary on the incessant consumption of horrific tragedies, reduced to mere binge-watching content for pleasure, is a true reflection of our culture and in line with Black Mirror's core values.

1 Beyond the Sea

Beyond the Sea stands out as the most groundbreaking and expansive episode of Black Mirror season 6. It surpasses the other episodes in every aspect, presenting a highly original concept that seamlessly combines innovative technology with suspense and tension. Aaron Paul's versatile performance captivates the audience, as he portrays both a human astronaut in outer space and a replica of his character Cliff on Earth, with their consciousness alternating with fellow astronaut David (Josh Hartnett). Contrary to expectations of a USS Callister sequel, Beyond the Sea proves to be remarkably inventive, impeccably constructed, and emotionally devastating from beginning to end.

Beyond the Sea presents a bleak and profound outlook that is both chilling and thought-provoking. Through the perspectives of a morally-skewed cultist, a broken family man, and an innocent friend who suffers due to his own kindness, the straightforward narrative delves into the worst aspects of human nature. Unlike other narratives, Beyond the Sea avoids the forced or contrived inclusion of hope following a devastating event. Instead, it offers a deep exploration of how darkness can corrupt and spread like a virus through trauma and violence, ultimately transforming victims into assailants. Additionally, the episode introduces a groundbreaking technology in the Black Mirror universe, the linking system of transferrable consciousness, making it the standout episode of season 6.