Martin Cid's Blog: Martin Cid Magazine, page 40
April 11, 2025
Frozen Hot Boys: Thai Underdogs Brave Japanese Snow in Netflix
“Frozen Hot Boys” is a Thai film that takes us to a youth detention center where a group of troubled boys, under the guidance of a determined teacher, aim to win an international ice sculpture competition in Japan. As you might know, Thailand is a tropical country, so snow isn’t exactly a common sight.
The Plot
The narrative centers on Jab, described as the most notorious troublemaker residing at the youth detention center. In a surprising turn of events, Jab is chosen to lead a snow sculpting team, placing him under the mentorship of Kru Chom, a teacher known for her cleverness and resourcefulness. The team’s mission: travel to Japan and win the ice sculpture contest.
Frozen Hot Boys – NetflixThe Cast
Nuttawat Thanataviepraserth plays Jab, the team’s unlikely captain. Leading the team is Natapohn Tameeruks, who portrays teacher Chompoo. The cast also includes Sadanont Durongkavarojana and Chatchai Chinnasri.
Directing duties for “Frozen Hot Boys” are helmed by Tanakit Kittiapithan and Nareubadee Wechakum. The screenplay is the work of Rangsima Aukkarawiwat, Tanakit Kittiapithan, and Pruch Neamsri.
About the Film
Despite any affection you might develop for these characters, the truth is that this film adheres to a formula that has worked before and simply repeats it, with varying degrees of success. It’s one of those easily recognizable movies we’ve seen a few times: the teacher who believes in a group of kids no one else does, and who ultimately, through teamwork, pursue a goal and learn that valuable lesson about believing in themselves.
So, don’t be surprised that “Frozen Hot Boys” is telling this same story again, this time with a Thai twist. It’s charming, full of heart, and yes, you’ll probably end up liking these kids. Natapohn Tameeruks delivers a solid performance as the teacher, and it’s an enjoyable film, but one we’ve seen a thousand times before.
Thematically, don’t expect any surprises either: it’s the familiar mix of laughs and tenderness, aiming to tug at the audience’s heartstrings by any means necessary.
“Frozen Hot Boys” is, ultimately, a film that plays it safe, sticking to what’s already proven to work. And yes, it works again, though without shining too brightly.
Where to Watch “Frozen Hot Boys”
Netflix’s “North of North”: Comedy Straight From the Cold
“North of North” is an eight-episode series that introduces viewers to the fictional Arctic community of Ice Cove and the captivating journey of Siaja, a young Inuit woman charmingly portrayed by Anna Lambe.
Produced by Red Marrow Media and Northwood Entertainment, in partnership with CBC and APTN, “North of North” stands out for its portrayal of life in Canada’s Far North.
This isn’t just another comedy; it’s a culturally rich narrative that delivers both laughs and heartfelt moments as Siaja navigates the unpredictable terrain of relationships, motherhood, and self-discovery in her close-knit community.
“North of North” arrives on Netflix after its Canadian premiere on CBC and APTN.
The series was filmed on location in Iqaluit, Nunavut, lending undeniable authenticity to the visual landscape.
Creators Stacey Aglok MacDonald and Alethea Arnaquq-Baril, who are both of Inuit heritage, consciously aimed to depict the North with warmth, beauty, and a strong sense of community, actively challenging stereotypical portrayals of the Arctic as a cold and desolate place.
North of North – NetflixThe Plot
The narrative of “North of North” centers on Siaja’s journey to redefine herself in her small Arctic hometown.
Feeling trapped in an unfulfilling marriage with Ting, the town’s popular “golden boy,” Siaja experiences a pivotal moment during a seal hunt.
Following an accident and a vision of the goddess Nuliajuk, Siaja decides to make a dramatic change, culminating in a public breakup with Ting at the local festival.
This bold move sets off a chain reaction of changes in Siaja’s life.
She moves in with her mother, Neevee, and embarks on a new career path, starting with a temporary job that eventually leads to a position assisting Helen at the community center.
The reappearance of her estranged father, Alistair, who arrives in Ice Cove with a proposal to build a research station, adds another layer of complexity to Siaja’s life.
Throughout the series, Siaja navigates her evolving relationships with her daughter, her mother, her father, and even finds a connection with Kuuk, Alistair’s assistant.
The overarching themes revolve around the challenges and humorous moments of navigating relationships, embracing single motherhood, and ultimately finding one’s identity within the confines of a small, tight-knit Arctic community.
Characters and Cast
At the heart of Ice Cove is Siaja, played by the talented Anna Lambe. Lambe’s performance anchors the series as Siaja embarks on a journey of personal reinvention after a spontaneous and very public departure from her marriage.
The supporting cast enriches the tapestry of Ice Cove with their own unique personalities.
Mary Lynn Rajskub plays Helen, the well-intentioned but sometimes misguided town administrator, whose interactions with Siaja often highlight cultural differences and comedic misunderstandings.
Maika Harper embodies Neevee, Siaja’s sharp-tongued mother, who runs the local store and offers a dose of reality to Siaja’s aspirations.
Keira Cooper portrays Bun, Siaja’s endearing daughter, while Braeden Clarke plays Kuuk, the charming assistant to Siaja’s estranged father.
Speaking of her father, Jay Ryan plays Alistair, a researcher whose arrival in Ice Cove stirs up past family dynamics.
Rounding out the central characters is Kelly William as Ting, Siaja’s ex-husband and the town’s “golden boy”.
The series also features Tanya Tagaq as Nuliajuk, an Inuit sea goddess who appears in Siaja’s vision, and a host of other memorable characters such as Siaja’s friends Millie (Zorga Qaunaq) and Colin (Bailey Poching), and her coworker Elisapee (Nutaaq Simmonds).
The Creative Team
The creative force behind “North of North” lies in its creators, executive producers, and writers, Stacey Aglok MacDonald and Alethea Arnaquq-Baril. Their shared Inuit heritage is crucial to the series’ authentic voice and perspective.
Directors who helmed episodes in the first season include Anya Adams, Danis Goulet, Zoe Leigh Hopkins, Lisa Jackson, Renuka Jeyapalan, and Aleysa Young.
A significant aspect of the production is the strong Indigenous representation both in front of and behind the camera. This commitment to authentic storytelling through Indigenous voices is a key element contributing to the show’s unique appeal and positive reception.
Where to Watch “North of North”
Meet the Khumalos: A South African Comedy on Netflix
Looking for a laugh and a way to unwind? Netflix delivers with “Meet the Khumalos,” a family comedy designed purely for your entertainment and enjoyment.
Forget about philosophical quandaries, existential crises, and even, if you can, international politics for a bit.
We know it’s a tall order, but “Meet the Khumalos” is here to help you try.
The Plot
The plot of “Meet the Khumalos” centers on a classic comedic setup: clashing personalities and the unpredictable twists of family life. The story focuses on Grace Khumalo (played by Khanyi Mbau), whose seemingly perfect life in the upscale Umhlanga neighborhood is upended when her former high school acquaintance, Bongi Sithole (played by Ayanda Borotho), moves in next door. The situation escalates when Grace and Bongi are horrified to discover that their respective children have fallen secretly in love. This “forbidden love” element, juxtaposed with the mothers’ animosity, creates a central conflict ripe for comedic intervention and over-the-top schemes, as the kids try to rendezvous while keeping it all hidden from their feuding mothers. In an attempt to separate the young lovers, Grace and Bongi reluctantly join forces, leading to a series of hilarious and unpredictable events. The irony of former enemies having to collaborate for a common goal is likely to be a major source of comedy in the film, promising humorous situations as their contrasting personalities and past conflicts inevitably resurface.
Direction and Screenwriting in “Meet the Khumalos”
Interestingly, “Meet the Khumalos” is an adaptation of the successful 2017 South African film Meet the Kandasamys, which was also written and directed by Jayan Moodley. Jayan Moodley, the creative force behind the original Meet the Kandasamys trilogy, returns to direct “Meet the Khumalos.” This continuity in leadership suggests a clear vision for the comedic tone and narrative. Her directorial debut, Keeping Up with the Kandasamys (2017), was a significant hit. She also directed the sequels, Kandasamys: The Wedding (2019) and Trippin’ with the Kandasamys (2021), which premiered as a Netflix original and topped the viewership charts in South Africa. This track record of success with similar comedic family dramas bodes well for “Meet the Khumalos,” demonstrating her ability to connect with audiences and deliver commercially viable and entertaining content.
The screenplay for “Meet the Khumalos” is penned by the dynamic duo of Gillian Breslin and Wendy Gumede. Gillian Breslin has a notable history as a writer for South African television, with credits including the TV series Spinners, Hartklop, and Projek Dina. Her experience in television, especially with series involving ongoing narratives, could bring a strong sense of character development and engaging dialogue to the film. She also has experience writing screenplays for films like Inside Story. Wendy Gumede is also credited as a writer for “Meet the Khumalos.” She is known for her work on the television series Isibaya and How to Ruin Christmas. Her involvement in popular South African series suggests an understanding of local humor and narrative preferences, making her a valuable addition to the writing team.
The Cast
“Meet the Khumalos” boasts an impressive cast of some of South Africa’s most beloved actors. Khanyi Mbau, a prominent South African actress, musician, television host, and socialite known for her bold presence and appearances in films like Happiness Is a Four-Letter Word and the reality series Young, Famous & African, plays Grace Khumalo. Her established public persona and experience in comedic roles make her an excellent lead for this film. Ayanda Borotho, a respected actress known for her roles in various South African television series, plays Bongi Sithole, Grace’s high school rival, described as a tough businesswoman with a thriving family. The contrast between Mbau’s flamboyant Grace and Borotho’s stern Bongi brings an interesting dynamic and comedic clashes to the screen. Connie Chiume, known for her roles in international hits like Black Panther and Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, plays Mavis, Grace’s perceptive and meddling mother-in-law. Khosi Ngema, a rising star known for her leading role in the Netflix series Blood & Water, plays one of Bongi’s sharp-witted daughters. Jesse Suntele, who appeared in the series Blood Drive and Savage Beauty, plays Grace’s charming and handsome son. Siyabonga Shibe, a seasoned actor with a long career in South African film and television, with roles in Scandal! and Uzalo, plays Bongi’s husband. His extensive experience brings a sense of reliability and depth to the cast. Bonga Dlamini, known for his roles in Blood Legacy and MOTSWAKO, plays Grace’s devoted husband. His presence adds to the film’s roster of established South African talent.
Our Take
“Meet the Khumalos” isn’t aiming for a Palme d’Or at Cannes or to offer some profound existential insight that will forever change our perceptions of space-time. It’s meant to be watched, enjoyed for some laughs, and then easily remembered fondly. It features likable, endearing characters, and the situations are fun and a bit over-the-top. As for the humor, it’s not the elegant, sophisticated kind that sometimes appeals to critics. It has a touch of raunchy humor that, we’ll confess, made us laugh. The two lead actresses have undeniable comedic talent and complement each other perfectly in this comedy that’s a bit wilder than your typical family fare. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to learn absolutely nothing, but definitely to have a good time.
Enjoy the show!
Where to Watch “Meet the Khumalos”
Netflix’s “The Gardener”: A Thorny Tale of Love, Loss, and Lethal Landscaping
Ever been tasked with assassinating the person you’ve fallen for? Probably not (and for good reason!), but that’s the central premise of “The Gardener,” a Spanish thriller series blooming on Netflix today.
Starring Álvaro Rico, Cecilia Suárez, and Catalina Sopelana, “The Gardener” is the brainchild of creator Miguel Sáez Carral. It’s a blend of romance, suspense, and one seriously manipulative mother.
The Plot Thickens
“The Gardener” unfolds in the seemingly tranquil setting of a gardening center, overseen by Elmer’s controlling mother, La China Jurado (Cecilia Suárez). However, beneath the vibrant flora and meticulously manicured gardens lies a sinister operation: the nursery serves as a front for a thriving assassination-for-hire business.
Elmer’s emotional detachment, a result of a youthful accident, makes him the perfect operative for his mother’s deadly schemes. Killing comes easily to him, a chilling advantage in their clandestine trade. The carefully constructed facade begins to crumble when Elmer is assigned to eliminate Violeta, a kindergarten teacher whose captivating presence unexpectedly penetrates his emotional defenses. This sets off a dangerous chain reaction, not only between Elmer and his intended target, but also between Elmer and his fiercely protective mother.
The Gardener – NetflixThe Cast Shines
Álvaro Rico delivers a nuanced performance as Elmer, showcasing his initial coldness with underlying hints of emotional vulnerability. His transformation from a seemingly heartless killer to a man grappling with love and empathy forms the central narrative arc of the series. The show delves into his internal conflict as he navigates his newfound feelings for Violeta while still bound by deep-seated obedience to his mother and the violent nature of his profession. Rico, previously known for his role in “Élite,” demonstrates a different facet of his acting abilities here.
Cecilia Suárez is compelling as La China Jurado, skillfully embodying the manipulative and fiercely protective matriarch of the criminal enterprise. Her possessive relationship with Elmer adds a disturbing yet fascinating layer to the series. Suárez portrays La China with a chilling combination of maternal affection and ruthless ambition, establishing her as a formidable antagonist determined to eliminate any threat to her control, especially Violeta.
As Violeta, Catalina Sopelana brings charm and innocence to the character of the unsuspecting target who captures Elmer’s heart.
The series also features a strong supporting cast including Iván Massagué, Emma Suárez, Javier Morgade, María Vázquez, Esteban Roel, Isabel Garrido, Francis Lorenzo, and Candela Solé.
Overall
“The Gardener” is a romantic thriller anchored by Cecilia Suárez’s commanding performance; she rules and manipulates the series as much as she does her son. It’s the most compelling role, driving the narrative and lending a unique flair to this Spanish production, which boasts a solid and intriguing storyline with the potential for original development.
However, “The Gardener” never fully commits to being either a pure thriller or a classic romance, and it constantly plays with this ambiguity. It bravely takes risks, particularly in exploring the mother-son relationship, where the mother faces emotional losses, yet ultimately provides the story’s most compelling element.
“The Gardener” unfolds at a deliberate pace, taking its time to develop what truly matters: the characters. Don’t expect a whirlwind of Hollywood-style assassinations and intrigue; “The Gardener” is more of a character-driven psychological thriller that unsettles, captivates, and evokes emotions. It straddles genres without firmly settling into either.
Whether this is a flaw or not, “The Gardener” skillfully navigates this ambiguity, telling its peculiar story in an engaging and relatable way.
Enjoy!
Where to Watch “The Gardener”
April 10, 2025
“USS Callister: Into Infinity” – Black Mirror Season 7, Episode 6
Among the many memorable episodes of Black Mirror, “USS Callister” stood out in Season 4 as a particularly sharp and unsettling satire. The episode brilliantly critiqued toxic fandom, the insidious nature of unchecked power, and the seductive yet dangerous allure of virtual escapism. It introduced us to Robert Daly, a brilliant but socially awkward programmer who exacted revenge on his dismissive colleagues by trapping their digital clones inside his private, modified version of the online game Infinity, a world inspired by his beloved TV show Space Fleet. Within this digital realm, Daly reigned as the all-powerful Captain, subjecting his crew of clones to his every whim.
Now comes the sequel to this standout chapter, chosen to conclude the seventh season on Netflix. “USS Callister: Into Infinity” returns us directly to the digital cosmos, picking up the story immediately after the dramatic escape of Captain Nanette Cole and her crew from Robert Daly’s tyrannical control. Freed from Daly’s private server and now adrift in the vast, procedurally generated universe of the public Infinity game, the USS Callister crew quickly discovers that freedom comes with its own set of challenges.
Black Mirror: USS Callister: Into InfinityLed by the newly appointed Captain Cole (Cristin Milioti), they find themselves stranded and struggling to survive in a world populated by 30 million real-world players. Needing in-game currency for essential resources like hyperspace fuel, the crew is forced to resort to piracy, ambushing unsuspecting players and stealing their credits. Soon, the reality we know collides with the virtual one in search of a core where the video game’s best-kept secret lies: a digital clone of its creator, working tirelessly to build this sprawling world.
This episode provides a surprising finale to a seventh season that, after a disturbingly dark start, gradually lost its nightmarish edge, ultimately concluding with this satire. Building on a pre-established idea, it wraps up a story with familiar themes. Without adding much to the original concept, it plays out as a more or less amusing space adventure, appealing to the geek crowd.
Cinematically, it leaves us feeling rather indifferent, although the TV-style tone (clearly imitating Star Trek) is well-executed and has its charm. There aren’t many allegories to new ideas compared to its predecessor episode, and this somewhat disappointing ending leaves us wondering if there will be an eighth season of Black Mirror. The show seems to be losing its revolutionary ideas, leaning more towards pleasing its fans than truly surprising them. Sources and related content
Where to Watch “USS Callister: Into Infinity”
“Eulogy” – Black Mirror Season 7, Episode 5: Unearthing Long-Lost Memories
Paul Giamatti stars in “Eulogy,” this season’s most personal and intimate story: a tale of lost love and false memories that, through technology, are brought back to life, ultimately revealing the truth.
In a departure from previous episodes, this installment feels like a return to the series’ early days. To truly connect with this episode and its unique sensitivity, you need to unplug and take a deep breath, immersing yourself in a love story about a man who has distorted his own memories and now confronts the reality of the situation.
The Plot
Philip, a solitary man, receives a call informing him of a woman’s death. Initially, he doesn’t recall her, but he soon begins to piece together his memories with the help of an innovative device that reignites forgotten recollections through photographs, reactivating dormant areas of his memory. Gradually, the story unfolds, guided by an unlikely companion: the daughter of the woman he loved many years ago.
Black Mirror: EulogyAbout the Episode
Paul Giamatti is undoubtedly the main draw of this episode, which doesn’t rely on flashy science fiction concepts or fantastical elements. Instead, “Eulogy” delves into the realm of memory and how technology allows us to revisit cherished or painful moments—experiences that are integral to our lives.
“Eulogy” takes us through Philip’s life and the three years he spent with his beloved. It’s an emotional and gentle journey, devoid of violence. The pacing is unhurried, with few narrative surprises, allowing the story to unfold in a deliberate, measured, and clean manner.
The episode features beautiful cinematography with an old film aesthetic, reminiscent of the pre-digital era. In fact, the entire episode seems to pay homage to photography, particularly the traditional process of developing photos from negatives. The episode mirrors this process: everything is initially hidden from view, and it’s only through the guide’s assistance that the “negative” is accessed, eventually taking shape on “paper” as a more tangible memory.
Don’t expect a barrage of special effects. While there are a few effects when the characters enter the photographs, this isn’t an episode that seeks to dazzle in that way; quite the opposite, in fact.
Rhythmically, it’s the strongest episode of the seventh season thus far. Prepare yourself for a poignant and beautiful trip down memory lane with Paul Giamatti. Sources and related content
Where to Watch “Eulogy”
“Plaything” – Black Mirror Season 7 Episode 4: A Descent into Paranoia
“Plaything” treads the line between psychological thriller and outright horror, unsurprisingly centering on a tech-focused premise, this time diving into the world of video games.
This episode embraces ambiguity, leaving its ultimate metaphor and message open to considerable interpretation. It leans into horror territory, featuring some gore and elements of a police procedural, ultimately prompting deeper questions. Video games take center stage, amplified by a potent dose of hallucinogens, resulting in a truly intriguing installment.
The Plot Unfolds
Cameron Walker is apprehended while attempting to steal a bottle of liquor, but the police quickly realize this is more than a simple theft: Walker is wanted for murder. The mystery deepens: Who exactly is this man? Walker obsessively requests a pen, needing to draw something.
As the interrogation begins, Cameron recounts his story: he’s a timid video game reviewer who receives an advance copy of a new game from a programmer, a game that soon becomes an all-consuming obsession.
Black Mirror: PlaythingRegarding “Plaything”
The central character, Cameron Walker, is shrouded in doubt. The episode constantly asks: Is everything a manifestation of his paranoia, or is this a glimpse into a plausible dystopian future? The show doesn’t offer easy answers, even when the ultimate purpose of events is revealed, staying true to Black Mirror’s thought-provoking nature.
Are you familiar with the theory that we are merely imagined constructs, essentially characters in someone else’s game? The script for “Plaything” flirts with this narrative, but ultimately grounds itself in the conventions of a classic police thriller.
“Plaything” isn’t a standout episode, but it’s well-executed with strong atmosphere. It once again plunges us into a nightmarish scenario, exploring the darker side of humanity’s obsession with technology, this time blurring the lines between fixation and the dangerous confusion of reality and fiction.
The episode presents interesting technological concepts, such as programs capable of rewriting and evolving themselves. However, this theme takes a backseat as the episode leans more heavily into the psychological thriller aspect than straightforward tech-horror.
Ultimately, “Plaything” delivers an original premise and thrives on ambiguity, refusing to provide all the answers. It compels viewers to question technological collapse, the impact of technology on mental health, and hints at other present dangers: biotechnology and the integration of technology to “enhance” human beings.
Some see this as a threat, while others view it as the next step in human evolution.
The direction we’re headed remains unknown.
Enjoy the ride.
Where to Watch “Plaything”
“Hotel Reverie” – Black Mirror Season 7, Episode 3
As many of you know, each episode of Black Mirror features a fresh cast and, more importantly, entirely distinct stories, all connected by the common threads of science fiction and technology.
“Hotel Reverie” plunges us into the world of classic film, centering on a fictional movie and the production of its remake using an advanced Artificial Intelligence system that integrates real people into an AI-generated universe.
Are you familiar with the concept of AI “hallucinations”? Essentially, it’s when AI makes a flawed initial calculation, leading to increasingly absurd conclusions and ultimately catastrophic results – the AI “hallucinates.”
“Hotel Reverie” stands out as a highly original episode that takes risks and skillfully incorporates a retro vibe into its narrative.
It also offers a compelling double meaning, especially for film enthusiasts: aren’t we ruining classic movies with the endless stream of remakes?
The Plot
Producers decide to employ an innovative system to remake a classic film, but everything goes awry during production. The plot takes a sharp turn, with the real-life actress and the AI beginning to alter the fictional reality. The movie evolves to incorporate amusing, bizarre, and even romantic new storylines.
Black Mirror: Hotel ReverieReflections on “Hotel Reverie”
Yes, we’re all aware that original ideas seem to be in short supply lately. For instance, Disney’s recent version of Snow White bears little resemblance to the original, leading some to argue that it simply didn’t need to be made.
“Hotel Reverie” plays with this notion a bit, while also introducing the theme of AI hallucinations – when AI makes a mistake and continues to build upon that initial error, inevitably compounding its blunders because it lacks the ability to cross-reference its results with anything “real.”
Ultimately, “Hotel Reverie” serves as a metaphor for the isolated world inhabited by AI. Driven by data and its interrelations, AI fundamentally lacks the experience of reality, lost in a black hole of millions upon millions of data points swirling and connections forming at faster-than-light speeds.
“Hotel Reverie” is an enjoyable episode that doesn’t strive for much beyond being entertaining. It avoids “nightmare mode,” opting instead for fun, engaging, and lightheartedness.
It’s reminiscent of some earlier season episodes, but with a greater degree of originality. However, it doesn’t venture into that nightmare territory or delve into deeper philosophical questions about the nature of reality.
It could have pushed further, aiming for something less anecdotal. Yet, this episode possesses charm and freshness, acknowledging that not every installment in the series needs to be a relentless, horrific descent.
Sometimes, it’s necessary to lighten the mood, and “Hotel Reverie” does so effectively.
Enjoy!
Where to Watch “Hotel Reverie”
“Bête Noire” – Black Mirror Season 7, Episode 2
This new chapter dares to ask: can quantum physics warp reality and plunge us into the multiverse? Or, more simply, is this just another reality check? “Bête Noire” blends comedy with a dramatic exploration of the blurry lines between reality and fiction, pushing Black Mirror into even more ambitious territory.
A Bitter Taste of Revenge: Plot Summary
“Bête Noire” introduces us to Maria (Siena Kelly), a rising star in the cutthroat world of flavor development at a major cookie company. After years of battling allergies, Maria has seemingly found her stride, excelling in her role and on the verge of launching an innovative new product. Her life appears comfortable and fulfilling, a testament to her hard work and talent.
However, this carefully constructed world begins to crumble with the unsettling arrival of Verity (Rosy McEwen), Maria’s former schoolmate. Once labeled a “computer geek” and a bullied outcast, Verity quickly lands a job in Maria’s department. The contrast between their past and present is stark: Maria was part of the popular crowd, while Verity was relegated to the fringes.
Soon after Verity’s arrival, Mary’s life takes a bizarre turn as she starts experiencing strange occurrences. She begins to misremember simple details, sends emails she doesn’t recall writing, and battles a growing sense that her reality is subtly but persistently shifting. These incidents, initially minor, escalate in severity, fueling Mary’s growing unease and confusion. A creeping paranoia takes hold: is Verity manipulating reality to her advantage?
Bête NoireAbout “Bête Noire”: Can Reality Be Modified Through Digitalization?
This episode presents an extreme scenario that, while pushed to the edge by the script, raises a more relevant concern: can technology alter reality and reshape our thinking? There’s ample research on the subject, and brands constantly attempt to influence our habits to change consumption patterns. However, this episode goes much further, venturing into the realm of quantum physics. While it may seem distant and fantastical today, could it become a reality?
“Bête Noire” subtly explores the fragility of reality and touches upon the phenomenon known as the Mandela Effect. Verity’s manipulations cause Mary to doubt fundamental aspects of her life, echoing the shared false memories that characterize the Mandela Effect. It’s been suggested that the internet and increased connectivity can amplify awareness of these collective false memories.
“Bête Noire” is a simple and entertaining episode, but ultimately feels anecdotal within the series. It lacks the necessary punch and veers too far from terrifying reality into, perhaps, overly speculative territory.
Too Geeky or a Reflection on the Effects of Information Overload?
Can technology warp our perception of reality?
As always, these Black Mirror episodes are designed to spark debate and leave fans anything but indifferent.
Enjoy! Sources and related content
Where to Watch “Bête Noire”
“Common People” – Black Mirror Season 7 Episode 1
Charlie Brooker’s series returns for its seventh season with “Common People,” an episode that critiques the steep costs of technological advancements in everyday life.
Starring Chris O’Dowd and Rashida Jones, the show revisits the darker tone of its first season. Has the more lighthearted style of recent seasons been abandoned?
Black Mirror Common PeopleThe Plot
The narrative centers on Amanda (Rashida Jones), a schoolteacher, and her husband Mike (Chris O’Dowd), a working-class couple facing an unimaginable crisis: Amanda is diagnosed with a terminal brain tumor.
In a desperate attempt to save his wife, Mike is presented with a seemingly miraculous but ethically complex option: Rivermind, an experimental procedure that offers a digital copy of Amanda’s brain, allowing her to live on through a subscription service.
While the operation itself is free, the $300 monthly fee to keep Amanda’s digital consciousness active puts a significant strain on their already tight finances.
One critique astutely points out that casting well-known actors like Jones and O’Dowd, while delivering strong performances, might detract from the show’s claim of portraying “ordinary people.” This observation raises an interesting point about how media often depicts working-class struggles through a familiar, perhaps less authentic, lens.
As the story unfolds, the true cost of this technological lifeline becomes painfully clear. The initial subscription severely limits Amanda’s existence. She can’t travel beyond a certain range without falling into a coma, and her sleep is no longer restful because her brain is used as a server for Rivermind’s operations. The situation deteriorates further with the introduction of intrusive ads that Amanda involuntarily recites, jeopardizing her job as a teacher. To escape these limitations and regain some semblance of normalcy, they need to upgrade to pricier tiers like Rivermind+ and Rivermind Lux. This tiered service structure, with its escalating costs and declining quality of life in the basic plan, serves as a biting satire of the subscription economy, mirroring tactics used by many companies where essential features are often locked behind higher paywalls.
About the Episode: Self-Critique? Brooker’s Final Nod to Netflix?
The parallel to Netflix’s service model is even explicitly noted in one analysis: Coincidence?
It seems unlikely, especially given the numerous rumors about the show’s end. It appears that, as in previous seasons, even Netflix isn’t safe from Brooker’s criticism.
“Common People” is a strong episode that returns to the show’s initial formula, with a nod to the first episode of the first season (the one with the kidnapping that garnered so much attention).
There are no major special effects in this episode, and even the technological advancements aren’t explicitly showcased. It’s more an episode about ordinary people, about workers who have nothing to do with tech hubs, choosing to focus on them and build a narrative around their way of life.
The critique is evident, direct; “Common People” doesn’t rely on metaphors, and everything here is plain, perhaps too direct. Technology, in a way, also takes away too much of our naturalness. Is the cost worth paying? Are we selling our souls? Is technology only for the privileged classes? Will we be able to afford the cost of all this technology?
A solid start to what promises to be another thrilling season. Sources and related content
Where to Watch “Common People”
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