Every Black Mirror Episode Ranked From Worst to Best (Including Season 7)

Since its debut in 2011, “Black Mirror” has become a mainstay on television screens worldwide, particularly since moving to Netflix. It has continued to captivate audiences by producing additional episodes and expanding into a broad realm of tech-related fearmongering. Originally airing on the BBC, “Black Mirror” was inspired by “The Twilight Zone,” with creator Charlie Brooker exploring the darker side of technology. By presenting chilling visions of our possible future, “Black Mirror” encourages viewers to reflect on their current lives and the paths we may be choosing; even after turning off your TV following an episode, you might find yourself staring into a figurative “black mirror.

This week, Netflix added six new episodes of the series “Black Mirror” as part of its seventh season. One of these episodes is a follow-up to one of the show’s most beloved installments. With seven full seasons, a holiday special, and an innovative movie experience, “Black Mirror” boasts a vast collection of thought-provoking stories. We’ve compiled a list ranking them all for your viewing convenience.

The Bad Episodes of Black Mirror

34) Men Against Fire

In simpler terms, “Men Against Fire” may be considered one of the least engaging episodes from “Black Mirror,” falling short on many fronts, particularly the dramatic twist at its core. This crucial point for the storyline struggles to rise above its predictability and instead appears too simplistic in its satirical message. Regrettably, even with talented actors like Sarah Snook and Michael Kelly, this episode doesn’t manage to shine.

33) Playtest

I’d like to offer my sincere apologies to Wyatt Russell and director Dan Trachtenberg for saying this, but unfortunately, “Playtest” doesn’t seem as strong as many other episodes when evaluated against them. While the central plot inspired by Hideo Kojima isn’t inherently flawed, the story relies heavily on an overused plot twist that leaves a disappointing impression. It appears more like a shortcut than what “Black Mirror” is typically capable of delivering.

32) Crocodile

In the realm of Black Mirror stories, the core technology in “Crocodile” may not be thrilling, but the haunting portrayal of a woman crumbling under the weight of her actions is hard to stomach, despite its unsettling nature. It might seem paradoxical in the context of Black Mirror, yet even its most gruesome episodes maintain an element of entertainment. The title is quite intriguing too; it left many viewers guessing for a while, and some still are (hint: Look up “Crocodile Tears” on Google).

The OKAY Episodes of Black Mirror

31) Arkangel

The Black Mirror episode “Arkangel,” which humorously critiques helicopter parenting, stretches longer than necessary. While it’s not poor quality, it’s one of the less engaging stories to follow, despite its thought-provoking satire.

30) Bete Noire (Season 7 – NEW)

Initially, the plot seems incredibly bizarre, reminiscent of “Black Mirror,” but by the end, it transforms into what might be the most fanciful tale the show has ever produced. While such an extensive departure isn’t necessarily flawed, it strays from the series’ grounded charm to focus on a joke that only partly succeeds. However, the acting of Siena Kelly and Rosy McEwen makes this an engaging watch despite its shortcomings.

29) Rachel, Jack and Ashley Too

In a nutshell, the Miley Cyrus-led episode from the series is often criticized excessively, despite being merely acceptable. One major criticism lies in the fact that while it concludes satisfactorily, it fails to provide any form of retribution for its main villains. Even when the twist revealing the toy robot possessing its own consciousness changes the entire narrative, the first 20 minutes are rather routine.

28) Mazey Day

Despite being one of the briefest episodes in the series, “Mazey Day” seems to stretch out unnecessarily before becoming engaging, and the climactic twist may not justify the lengthy wait. There’s enjoyable chaos towards the end, but at times, it feels more like a different show than Black Mirror. It’s neither terrible nor exceptional; it’s just average.

27) The Waldo Moment

In a world without President Donald Trump, scenarios once considered implausible are becoming less unrealistic. Add to that the increasing prominence of AI online, and “The Waldo Moment” is starting to resemble our current situation more than some other episodes might suggest. While it can be amusing at times, the abrasive personality of its main character holds it back from being as striking as the rest of the series. It does earn points for being quite cruel and featuring a surprising twist in its conclusion, though.

26) Hated in the Nation

The main issue with this episode is that it drags on for too long without providing enough engaging content to justify its duration compared to other episodes. There’s an unsettling feeling of foreshadowing at the heart of “Hated in the Nation” which makes it seem uncomfortably realistic, but the slow revelation of its mystery can become tedious. However, its final scenes do offer a satisfying sense of justice that is rarely achieved in the series.

25) Bandersnatch

In “Bandersnatch,” Will Poulter’s captivating performance holds the story together, and when he’s absent, it seems to falter somewhat. The creators, Charlie Brooker and David Slade, have skillfully turned this gimmick into an entertaining viewing experience. However, despite its engaging segments, the overall enjoyment of “Bandersnatch” eventually fades. One of the standout aspects is the meta-humorous moments that the branching pathways in “Bandersnatch” provide, which have been a highlight of the Netflix era of “Black Mirror.

24) Hang the DJ

This episode stands out for its straightforwardness, as the central technology feels plausible without veering into the realm of pure fantasy. The duo, Georgina Campbell and Joe Cole, make an endearing pair to follow. The unexpected twist in “Hang the DJ” could have easily undermined the rest of the narrative if not executed skillfully; however, the finale where this is revealed completes their relationship’s portrait, making it a strong episode overall.

The Good Episodes of Black Mirror

23) Striking Vipers

Regularly portrayed with a critical tone, “Striking Vipers” stands out as an exceptional exploration of male bonding and friendship, offering perspectives that no other series can replicate. A special recognition goes to the talented duos portraying the main characters: Anthony Mackie and Yahya Abdul-Mateen II in real life, and Pom Klementieff and Ludi Lin in the game. They deliver a remarkably cohesive performance throughout the entire episode.

22) Loch Henry

The strongest aspect of ‘Loch Henry’ is its criticism of true crime enthusiasts and creators, such as Netflix, which makes the final scenes particularly impactful (and memorable). However, the story occasionally drags, making it slightly confusing to follow while viewing.

21) Smithereens

Among the outstanding episodes in the fifth season of the show, one stands out due to its powerful ending. It’s a profoundly human narrative that gets tangled in an indifferent universe where online news stories are mere fleeting happenings with no emotional connection for those who read them. In essence, reality is disposable, regardless of social class. Perhaps unknowingly, this episode might be “Black Mirror”‘s most potent critique of our own world.

20) Metalhead

In “Metalhead,” the filmmaker effectively establishes a distinctive universe populated by malevolent technology right off the bat. Yet, the tension doesn’t let up; director David Slade continually devises innovative methods to keep the extended chase sequence engaging and distinctive within the realm of Black Mirror. The episode truly excels with a shocking climax that sets it apart from numerous other Netflix-era episodes, delivering an emotional wallop.

19) Joan Is Awful

In “Joan Is Awful,” there’s just the right dose of surprise and intrigue that makes it instantly appealing to viewers from the start. However, the real artistry lies in how effectively it concludes with the deep, underlying layers it presents, which it skillfully executes with a strong emotional impact. Additionally, its subtle critique of Netflix and its subscribers is an extra advantage.

18) Nosedive

In “Nosedive”, the setting, which resembles our world yet subtly deviates, immediately makes it resonate with viewers. Despite its monotonous, drab aesthetic that might initially turn some off (intentionally so), it manages to establish a quick connection. Bryce Dallas Howard masterfully portrays a character who adopts various masks in her interactions, adding depth to her role and depicting one who is always on display for others. The story concludes with a defiant gesture, symbolically flipping off the sky, which imbues “Nosedive” with its potent message.

17) Playthings (Season 7 – NEW)

Among the offerings of Black Mirror Season 7, “Playthings” distinguishes itself by presenting a plot-driven narrative rather than delving deeply into character development. Compared to other episodes, it might seem lighter in this aspect, but it’s undeniably an engaging and quintessential tale for the series. Moreover, the episode gains additional praise for featuring Colin Ritman post-“Bandersnatch,” adding a delightful twist to the narrative.

16) Demon ’79

As a cinephile, I must say that “Demon ’79” instantly captivated me with its distinctive 16mm texture and Hammer horror vibe. The film’s charm only deepens as it unfolds. Despite being one of the supernatural tales in the series, this episode perfectly encapsulates the moral dilemmas, tinged with nihilism, that are characteristic of the series.

I was hooked from the start by the movie’s unique 16mm feel and Hammer horror atmosphere. The film gets even better as it progresses, and while it’s one of the supernatural stories in the series, it beautifully portrays the complex moral choices with a touch of nihilism that are typical of this collection.

15) Common People (Season 7 – NEW)

Kicking off Black Mirror‘s seventh season with this particular episode seems like the show signaling its return to fundamentals. Even though a significant technological innovation is at the heart of “Common People,” it swiftly spirals into a nightmare. However, the series skillfully employs this as an opportunity to critique two key aspects of contemporary society in a sharp and satirical manner. To top it off, the bleak ending only strengthens the episode’s impact, making it a strong addition to the Black Mirror collection.

14) White Bear

Lenora Crichlow’s journey through an unfamiliar world mirrors that of the viewers, which is why “White Bear” starts off as one of the top 10 episodes in the series Black Mirror. Regardless of your knowledge of its outcome, the writing and direction are so well-crafted that there’s always a fresh detail to discover with each rewatch, making its looping narrative reminiscent of Groundhog Day even more intriguing upon multiple viewings.

13) White Christmas

The Christmas special of Black Mirror in 2014 effectively combines an anthology style with a broader narrative framework. Each strange, tech-centric setting is given the perfect amount of time to stand out as unique and entertaining, without overstaying its welcome. Remarkably, the episode’s conclusion leaves you stunned by its brutal impact yet manages to elicit a chuckle due to its clever use of music.

The Great Episodes of Black Mirror

12) Beyond the Sea

Without a doubt, the standout episode from Black Mirror’s sixth season is “Beyond the Sea.” This installment masterfully embodies the central themes of the series in a profound manner. Instead of focusing on how technology might affect us, it delves deep into the depths of human nature, using a singular innovation as a backdrop.

11) Be Right Back

Initially, when this show’s episode was aired, its content appeared fantastical or unrealistic. However, in today’s world, the themes portrayed in “Be Right Back” could easily happen on any given Tuesday. Despite this modern relevance, the underlying sadness and poignant performances by Hayley Atwell and Domhnall Gleeson keep its tragic essence intact. For an episode as emotionally heavy as this one, the usual dark and harsh tone of “Black Mirror” is notably absent.

10) Hotel Reverie (Season 7 – NEW)

The unique blend of form, style, and nods to old Hollywood in ‘Hotel Reverie’ sets it apart from many other series. Its ability to intertwine a poignant human tragedy narrative with innovative technology serves as an intriguing gateway for exploration. This fusion is what makes ‘Hotel Reverie’ an instant classic. The captivating portrayals by Issa Rae and Emma Corrin make the episode both heartwarming and bittersweet, with characters that seem remarkably genuine.

9) The Entire History of You

Despite not making it to the Top 5, this episode of Black Mirror could very well be considered a defining gem among all the others. In a world where memories can be replayed on demand, this thought-provoking tale eloquently illustrates why such a convenience is actually detrimental and potentially destructive. The script was penned by Jesse Armstrong, creator of Succession, and features Toby Kebbell and Jodie Whittaker in starring roles. This episode concludes with an ending that will leave you feeling genuinely distressed.

8) Black Museum

Instead of feeling overly indulgent due to its abundance of Easter Eggs, an episode of “Black Mirror” like this one is more enjoyable because it serves as delightful decoration. However, what truly gives weight are the real stories presented in “Black Museum”. Just like how “White Christmas” skillfully intertwines multiple narratives, “Black Museum” deftly juggles several plots that culminate satisfyingly while keeping a sense of shock and surprise throughout.

7) USS Callister: Into Infinity (Season 7 – NEW)

Experiencing the continuation of one of the finest episodes ever produced by ‘Black Mirror’, titled “USS Callister: Into Infinity”, is a challenge given its outstanding predecessor, yet it still ranks among the top tier of Season 7. This follow-up is intriguing as it serves not only as a sequel to the earlier episode but also skillfully reinterprets everything you assumed about the original. It provides answers to questions that hadn’t even crossed your mind and offers surprises that breathe new life into the story, giving it a unique twist. In essence, it’s a masterpiece worthy of recognition.

6) Shut Up and Dance

The film’s conclusion may leave you pondering its purpose, but that’s precisely the message – the characters are subjected to extreme situations and forced to comply with their blackmailers, serving as a critique of our current digital age and our role as viewers. The series ‘Shut up and Dance’ skillfully taps into the dark undertones previously showcased in the best episodes of ‘Black Mirror’, while also providing a gripping thriller that keeps you guessing “How will they escape this predicament?” with each unexpected twist.

The Best Episodes of Black Mirror

5) Eulogy (Season 7 – NEW)

The main topic in Black Mirror Season 7 is deeply personal tragedies, with “Eulogy” standing out as the most poignant exploration among them. Starring the exceptional Paul Giamatti, this episode delves into themes of memory, time, and perspective, setting it apart in the broader Black Mirror series but placing it at the top of the recent releases. Combining Giamatti’s remarkable acting with exceptional writing and visually striking cinematography results in one of the top five best episodes of Black Mirror ever produced.

4) Fifteen Million Merits

This episode of the series might become overly packed due to its unique setting, which deviates significantly from reality, and its satirical portrayal of reality TV, competition shows, and the broader media industry. The multitude of elements it tackles is impressive, and the fact that “Fifteen Million Merits” manages to weave them seamlessly into a relatable narrative speaks volumes about the skills of the team behind it. Daniel Kaluuya and Jessica Brown Findlay deliver exceptional performances that tug at your heartstrings and keep you engaged throughout.

3) The National Anthem

Launching the initial episode of your new anthology TV series with a daring choice like “The National Anthem” was brilliant, as it encapsulates everything that makes the show exceptional. A setting slightly reminiscent of our reality? Affirmed. An intense and harrowing predicament? Confirmed. A protagonist saddled with an unenviable task? Confirmed. An ending that leaves you feeling queasy more than once? Affirmed. Few episodes have come close to matching the bleakness and cynical worldview of “The National Anthem” since its premiere.

2) USS Callister

In narrowing its focus to a highly specific topic, ‘USS Callister’ manages to present a singular yet relatable perspective on the harmful tendencies of today’s online male adult. Standout actor Jesse Plemons shines by portraying dual roles: the gloomy and wretched Robert Daly in real life and a character reminiscent of William Shatner within the game’s core. This episode’s success, evidenced by its four Primetime Emmy awards, is well-deserved.

1) San Junipero

In an unexpected twist, it’s “San Junipero,” rather than “USS Callister” with its numerous Emmys, that stands out as the top episode of Black Mirror series. The reason? It was the first to win an award, and rightfully so. Actresses Gugu Mbatha-Raw and Mackenzie Davis deliver outstanding performances that transform this bittersweet finale into a touching, optimistic, and realistic one. The episode masterfully tackles all the themes Black Mirror has addressed over time, ending on a note that leaves viewers with a rare feeling of hopefulness.

2025-04-10 19:42