By Murtaza Ali Khan
There are many who have described Black Mirror as The Twilight Zone of the 21st century. Created by Charlie Brooker, Black Mirror is known for
its satirical and cynical take on the side effects of technology. In words of
Brooker himself, “If technology is a drug – and it does feel like a drug – then
what, precisely, are the side effects? This area – between delight and
discomfort – is where Black Mirror, my new drama series, is set.” For the
uninitiated, Brooker explains that black mirror “is the one you'll find on
every wall, on every desk, in the palm of every hand: the cold, shiny screen of
a TV, a monitor, a smartphone."
After three rollicking seasons, the series is back with a
kick-ass fourth season that is easily the biggest thing that has happened on
Netflix so far, in terms of scope and certainly in terms of creative ambition. The
fourth season has a total of six episodes, including one directed by Jodie
Foster titled “Arkangel”. Today we would be talking about the explosive first
episode of the season titled “USS Callister” that’s been dubbed as the best
episode of the season by critics around the world. Directed by Toby Haynes, USS
Callister can best be described as a tribute to Star Trek.
********************SPOILER
ALERT***********************
The story of USS Callister revolves around a gaming genius who decides
to punish his colleagues who refuse to acknowledge his efforts. Since he cannot
do so in the real world he unleashes his sadistic streak in the virtual world.
He leverages upon the same programming gift that has allowed him to set up a
gaming empire in the real world (the credit for which is usurped by the co-founder)
to create a virtual universe where he is an autocratic ruler and a living
nightmare for his co-workers. He uses their DNA to transport their virtual
selves into the harrowing world he simulates through programming wherein he
treats them as his slaves. The episode has a feature length running time of 76 minutes and stars Jesse Plemons, Cristin Milioti, and Jimmi Simpson in the major roles. The episode features cameo appearances from Aaron Paul and Kirsten Dunst.
USS Callister is inspired by
The Twilight Zone episode titled “It’s a Good Life” and serves as a powerful
critique of the abuse of authority and power. In the wake of events surrounding
the episodes of abuse involving Harvey Weinstein, USS Callister proves its pertinence
to the times we live in. USS Callister is also a reminder of dirty politics in
corporate circles that often deprive the deserving colleagues of the
appreciation and accolades that they deserve. The episode can also be seen as a
satire on internet bullying. Black Mirror episodes usually culminate in rather
bleak endings but USS Callister is a departure in that regard in that it
chooses hope over grim possibilities. But that doesn't mean that it isn't true to the usual Black Mirror traditions. In fact, the episode has something for everyone. One
really couldn’t have asked for a better season premiere.
Readers, please feel free to share your opinion by leaving your comments. As always your valuable thoughts are highly appreciated!
Black Mirror - 'USS Callister' Trailer (YouTube)
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