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Reviews
Black Mirror: Mazey Day (2023)
I see why people don't like this one
Black Mirror's Season 6 has been quite a rollercoaster ride, and the fourth episode, "Mazey Day," certainly doesn't hold back when it comes to unexpected twists and turns. However, discussing this episode without spoilers is virtually impossible, so be warned: spoilers ahead.
Let's start with the positives. Danny Ramirez and Zazie Beetz deliver commendable performances as Hector and Bo, respectively. Their acting skills drive the plot forward in convincing ways, adding depth to their characters. As is typical for Black Mirror, the characters are well-made and realistic, drawing viewers into their lives and struggles.
At first, the plot of "Mazey Day" shows promise. It sets up an intriguing premise that captures the audience's attention. However, as the episode progresses, it veers off the deep end. The plot twist at the end feels forced and lacks the impact that viewers expect from Black Mirror. Unlike the clever foreshadowing in the second episode of the season, "Loch Henry," the twist in "Mazey Day" has terrible foreshadowing. The twist while fun and entertaining is pretty bad and surprisingly unpredictable in a way I can't say I'm the biggest fan of.
The final action scene in the episode is where things take a turn for the worse. Unfortunately, it becomes unintentionally laughable, especially with the character deaths that elicit unintended humor. Believe me when I say that that action sequence was on Kenobi levels of bad, I have no clue how that was greenlit at the stage it was in. The overall story's conclusion leaves no lasting impression, failing to make a mark on the audience.
Perhaps the most frustrating aspect of "Mazey Day" is the questionable decision-making by the characters after the werewolf twist. Returning to the restaurant, even after witnessing the existence of a werewolf, makes absolutely no sense. It's baffling that Bo and Hector wouldn't immediately distance themselves from the area, considering the imminent danger they faced. They had their pictures, and then went into a restaurant that obviously would not have been safe from the werewolf looming about instead of just driving home, or if they couldn't find home, driving as far away as possible.
In conclusion, "Mazey Day" falls short of its potential. While Danny Ramirez and Zazie Beetz deliver strong performances and the characters feel genuine, the episode's plot takes a nosedive. The poorly executed plot twist, laughably bad action scene, and nonsensical character actions all contribute to a lackluster viewing experience. Despite its initial promise, "Mazey Day" fails to leave a lasting impression. That being said, this episode is very entertaining, especially in its latter parts which manage to provide a so bad it's good experience. Overall I'm gonna give this a 5/10, maybe a 4.5.
Black Mirror: Beyond the Sea (2023)
Shocked
Black Mirror Season 6's third episode, "Beyond the Sea," deserves a solid 9/10 rating in my book. Let me break it down for you!
First off, the direction in this episode is masterful. They excel at building tension and creating an eerie atmosphere that had me on the edge of my seat. Throughout the entire episode, there was a lingering feeling of impending doom that added to the overall suspense.
The ending is downright terrifying. I won't spoil it, but it left me with goosebumps. The situation they set up is incredibly messed up and will make you question everything. It's classic Black Mirror at its finest.
The acting is absolutely amazing, particularly Aaron Paul's performance. He brings a level of emotion and intensity to his character that is captivating. He deserves recognition for his outstanding work in this episode.
One thing that stood out to me was the constant sense that something bad was about to happen. Even in moments of apparent peace, there was an underlying uneasiness that added to the overall tension. The storytelling and narrative setup were top-notch.
Overall, "Beyond the Sea" is a knockout episode of Black Mirror. The direction is masterful, the ending is chilling, the acting is phenomenal (shoutout to Aaron Paul), and the constant anticipation of something going wrong keeps you on the edge of your seat. It's a must-watch for any Black Mirror fan. Don't miss out on this one!
Black Mirror: Joan Is Awful (2023)
Yeah I liked it
Delivers a solid addition to the beloved anthology series. While it may not reach the heights of some groundbreaking episodes of the past, it still manages to offer a compelling story that keeps you engaged throughout.
One of the strengths of this episode lies in its intriguing and fascinating plot. The narrative unfolds in a thought-provoking manner, presenting a dystopian future that feels all too close for comfort. It successfully captures the essence of Black Mirror, with its ability to be both crazy and unsettling while avoiding major plot holes that could derail the viewer's immersion.
The characters in "Joan Is Awful" are well-developed, although there is a minor disconnect that prevents a deeper emotional connection. Nonetheless, Black Mirror demonstrates its understanding of modern audiences by incorporating relatable elements into the story. The themes explored resonate with contemporary concerns, further adding to the episode's impact.
While the overall acting is commendable, there are moments where it falls slightly short. However, Annie Murphy's portrayal of Joan is a standout performance. She proves to be a good casting choice, injecting the character with depth and delivering a captivating performance that carries the episode.
Despite not pushing the boundaries of the series, "Joan Is Awful" is a testament to Black Mirror's ability to consistently deliver compelling narratives. While it may not be the most memorable episode of the show, it still manages to entertain and provoke thought, making it a worthwhile addition to the Black Mirror canon.
In conclusion, "Joan Is Awful" presents a good story within the Black Mirror universe, albeit without breaking new ground. It manages to keep viewers engaged with its interesting plot, while avoiding major inconsistencies. Although there is a minor disconnection with the characters, the episode successfully captures the modern audience's sensibilities. While the acting could have been stronger overall, Annie Murphy shines in her role. Black Mirror Season 6 continues to deliver, even if this particular episode doesn't leave a lasting impact.
Black Mirror: Loch Henry (2023)
Wow
This episode is amazing and deserves nothing short of a perfect rating. From its phenomenal ending to its impeccable foreshadowing, this mind-bending installment of the beloved anthology series leaves viewers breathless with its shocking twists and turns.
The episode begins with a slow and unusually usual start, but similar to Succession's "This Is Not For Tears," the slow pace is necessary and sets up the great ending. While some may find this pacing initially disorienting, it quickly becomes evident that the deliberate build-up is necessary for the remarkable second half. It rewards patient viewers with a mind-blowing payoff that leaves an indelible impact.
One of the standout qualities of "Loch Henry" is its perfect foreshadowing. Throughout the episode, subtle hints and clues are meticulously planted, creating an intricate web of suspense and anticipation. As the story unravels, viewers are astounded by the precision with which every detail falls into place, enhancing the overall narrative and elevating the viewing experience to new heights.
But it is the shocking ending that truly cements "Loch Henry" as a masterpiece. Just when you think you have everything figured out, the episode delivers a game-changing twist that challenges your perceptions and leaves you reeling. It is a testament to the show's ability to push the boundaries of storytelling, provoking deep reflection on the impact of technology and society.
The characters in "Loch Henry" are another compelling aspect of this gripping tale. Each one is expertly crafted, realistic, and intriguing. Their flaws and struggles resonate with the audience, adding layers of complexity to the narrative. The exceptional performances breathe life into these characters, making them feel relatable and profoundly human.
Furthermore, the overall score and direction of the episode are nothing short of brilliant. The hauntingly atmospheric soundtrack perfectly complements the unfolding events, immersing the viewer in the eerie world of "Loch Henry." The direction demonstrates a masterful command of tone, pacing, and visual storytelling, amplifying the impact of every moment.
In conclusion, "Loch Henry" is a standout episode of Black Mirror that showcases the series at its finest. With a phenomenal ending, flawless foreshadowing, shocking twists, and an amazing plot twist, it is a testament to the show's ability to captivate and challenge its audience. While it may have a slow start, the payoff in the second half is well worth the wait. The realistic and intriguing characters, combined with the exceptional score and direction, make this episode a true masterpiece of mind-bending brilliance. Black Mirror fans will not be disappointed.