Best to Worst: Black Mirror Season 7 Episodes – A Critical Ranking

Black Mirror's return after a lengthy hiatus brought both excitement and apprehension. Season 7, while not universally lauded as the series' best, still offers a diverse range of thought-provoking episodes. This ranking considers narrative structure, thematic depth, and overall impact, offering a critical analysis of each episode to determine its place in the season's hierarchy.

Ranking the Season 7 Episodes: From Best to Worst

This ranking is subjective and invites discussion. Your personal preference may differ, but this analysis provides a solid basis for comparing the episodes based on several key factors.

1. Joan Is Awful (Best): This episode expertly blends satire with a chilling commentary on the erosion of privacy and the manipulative power of big tech. The meta-narrative, with its commentary on streaming culture and celebrity obsession, adds an extra layer of engaging complexity. The performance by Annie Murphy is truly captivating, capturing the emotional turmoil of Joan perfectly. Its relevance to our current digital age makes it strikingly resonant and impactful.

2. Beyond the Sea: This emotionally resonant episode explores themes of loneliness, isolation, and the ethical implications of advanced technology. The relationship between the two astronauts forms the emotional core, making the narrative engaging and deeply affecting. The slow-burn reveal is masterful, creating suspense and compelling the viewer to grapple with its philosophical implications.

3. Loch Henry: This episode's strength lies in its exploration of the blurred lines between voyeurism, truth, and the manipulative power of media. The captivating cinematography complements a narrative that steadily escalates in tension. While some may find the ending predictable, the journey remains compelling and prompts important questions about our relationship with online content and the exploitation of real-life tragedies.

4. Archangel: While focusing on the difficult topic of parental control and the potential dangers of unfettered access to technology, this episode suffers from a slightly predictable narrative structure. The underlying themes are significant, exploring the complexities of raising children in an ever-evolving technological landscape, but the execution could have been more impactful.

5. Demon 79: This episode's retro aesthetic and vibrant soundtrack are notable strengths. However, the plot feels slightly less cohesive compared to other entries in this season. While the concept is intriguing – a young woman tasked with preventing a catastrophic event – the execution lacks the same punch and thematic depth as other episodes.

6. Too Many Chefs: (Worst) This episode, while containing moments of dark humor, falls flat compared to the rest of the season. The experimental and fragmented narrative, although attempting to be bold and innovative, ultimately lacks the thematic resonance and emotional engagement of its counterparts. The concept, while intriguing, struggles to maintain focus, resulting in a less satisfying viewing experience.

Why this ranking? A deeper dive.

The criteria for this ranking considered several factors:

• Thematic Depth: Episodes that explore complex and relevant social issues, offering a nuanced perspective, ranked higher.
• Narrative Structure: Well-paced narratives with strong character development and satisfying conclusions scored better.
• Overall Impact: The lasting impression an episode leaves on the viewer played a significant role in its placement.
• Originality: Episodes that offered fresh perspectives or innovative storytelling techniques were favored.

Conclusion: Season 7's Mixed Bag

Black Mirror Season 7 delivers a mixed bag, with some episodes reaching the heights of the show's best work while others fall short. This ranking provides a framework for understanding the variations in quality and thematic impact across the season. However, the ultimate judgement, as with all art, rests with the individual viewer. What are your thoughts? Share your own ranking in the comments below!