TIPSLIFEHACKS

Charlie Brooker, the brilliant mind behind the dystopian anthology series Black Mirror, has done it again. Season 7, which landed on Netflix on April 10th, is already sparking conversations and unsettling viewers with its chillingly plausible explorations of technology's impact on humanity. As Primetime Emmy voters prepare to cast their ballots (first-round voting runs June 12-23), Screen International sat down with Brooker to delve into the inspiration behind this latest batch of episodes, and why we, despite ourselves, keep coming back for more.

Brooker famously describes the feeling of being relentlessly pushed by technology – “all of us are being bashed into the wall by technology” – and this sentiment permeates Season 7. It's not about predicting the future, he insists, but rather extrapolating from current trends, taking familiar anxieties and amplifying them to their logical, often terrifying, conclusions. This season feels particularly relevant, arriving at a time when AI is rapidly evolving and blurring the lines between reality and simulation.

What sets Black Mirror apart is its ability to tap into a deep-seated unease about progress. It’s not a Luddite screed against technology itself, but a cautionary tale about how easily we can become reliant on, and controlled by, the systems we create. Brooker’s episodes aren't just entertaining; they're thought-provoking, prompting viewers to question their own relationship with their devices and the broader digital landscape.

This season, Brooker explores themes of loneliness, identity, and the pursuit of connection in an increasingly fragmented world. He’s particularly interested in the ways technology can both facilitate and exacerbate our deepest desires and fears. Expect twists, turns, and plenty of uncomfortable truths – all delivered with Brooker’s signature dark humour and sharp wit.

The timing of the Emmy voting adds another layer of intrigue. Black Mirror has consistently been a critical darling, and Season 7 is poised to continue that streak. But beyond the awards buzz, the series’ enduring appeal lies in its ability to hold a mirror up to society, forcing us to confront the potential consequences of our own creations. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to the Black Mirror universe, Season 7 is a must-watch – just be prepared to feel a little uneasy afterwards.

Brooker’s insights into the creative process and the anxieties that fuel Black Mirror offer a fascinating glimpse behind the scenes of one of television’s most innovative and influential series. He’s not afraid to challenge audiences, to provoke discomfort, and to ask the difficult questions that others shy away from. And that's precisely why Black Mirror remains so vital and relevant in today’s rapidly changing world.