“Black Mirror,” a British anthology series created by Charlie Brooker, is known for its dark and satirical episodes that explore the consequences of modern society’s dependence on technology.
While not typically associated with parody in the traditional sense, “Black Mirror” often uses satirical mimicry to comment on cultural phenomena, media, and technology.
Here are five examples where the show uses parody to deliver its critique.
“The Waldo Moment” – Political Satire
“The Waldo Moment” features a blue cartoon bear named Waldo, who ends up running for political office as a joke but gains a following due to his crude and nihilistic humor. The parody works by taking the concept of a political outsider and pushing it to the extreme, with a non-human entity running for office.
The target of the parody is the political system and the media circus that often surrounds it.
The implied criticism is of the electorate’s disillusionment with traditional politics and how this cynicism can lead to the popularity of unqualified, yet entertaining, candidates.
“Nosedive” – Social Media Obsession
“Nosedive” parodies society’s obsession with social media and the constant need for validation through likes and ratings. In this episode, people can rate each other from one to five stars for every interaction they have, affecting their socioeconomic status. The parody works by amplifying real-world social media interactions to a system that controls every aspect of life.
The target is the social media culture and its impact on personal relationships and self-worth.
The implied criticism is that the quest for online approval can lead to inauthentic behavior and a toxic environment where one’s value is determined by superficial metrics.
“Fifteen Million Merits” – Reality TV and Consumerism
“Fifteen Million Merits” is set in a world where people earn currency by pedaling on exercise bikes and are bombarded by screens showing advertisements and reality TV. The parody works by exaggerating the monotony of modern life and the escapism offered by media.
The target of the parody is reality TV, consumer culture, and the commodification of human attention.
The implied criticism is that society has become numb to the exploitative nature of entertainment and the relentless push to consume.
“Hated in the Nation” – Online Mob Mentality
“Hated in the Nation” parodies the phenomenon of online outrage and mob mentality. The episode features robotic bees that are weaponized to target individuals who become the focus of public hate on social media. The parody works by taking the concept of “swarming” someone online and turning it into a literal threat.
The target is the online culture of harassment and the consequences of digital witch-hunts.
The implied criticism is that the anonymity and detachment provided by social media can lead to dehumanizing behavior and real-world violence.
“Men Against Fire” – Military Propaganda
“Men Against Fire” parodies the use of propaganda and technology in military operations. It follows a soldier equipped with an implant that alters his perception, making enemies appear as monstrous “roaches.” The parody works by showing how technology can be used to manipulate soldiers and dehumanize the enemy.
The target is the military-industrial complex and its use of propaganda to justify war.
The implied criticism is that through manipulation and dehumanization, atrocities can be committed without the burden of guilt or moral responsibility.
