In the latest installment of the popular anthology series “Black Mirror,” creator Charlie Brooker and his team have taken on their most ambitious project yet. Following the success of the Emmy-winning Season 4 episode “USS Callister,” fans were left eagerly anticipating a follow-up that would delve deeper into the thrilling world of digital human clones trapped in a “Star Trek”-like game universe. This new feature-length episode, titled “USS Callister: Into Infinity,” premieres on Netflix as part of the seventh season, promising a fresh adventure that blurs the lines between reality and virtual reality.
Behind the Scenes: Crafting a Sequel
As Brooker and his collaborators embarked on the journey to create the sequel, they faced unique challenges in expanding the story beyond its original boundaries. With the pressure of living up to the success of the first episode, the team had to navigate complex narrative choices and character developments. Brooker’s signature style of leaving characters in dire straits at the end of each story posed a particular challenge when considering how to continue the story of Nanette and Robert Daly. The idea of a sequel was daunting, as Brooker himself acknowledged, “If we’ve killed Darth Vader, what do we do?”
The writers’ room for “Black Mirror” had to be opened for the first time to tackle the intricate plot points and emotional arcs that would drive the narrative forward. The decision to bring back familiar characters like Nanette and Daly in a new setting required careful planning and attention to detail. Actress Cristin Milioti, who plays Nanette, described the experience of facing her digital counterpart as “jarring,” highlighting the emotional depth of the character’s internal conflict. The real-world Nanette, still navigating her mundane existence, must come to terms with the version of herself that commands a spaceship, leading to a poignant exploration of identity and self-discovery.
On Set: Challenges and Triumphs
The physical demands of filming a sci-fi epic like “USS Callister: Into Infinity” presented a unique set of challenges for the cast and crew. From navigating intricate camera setups to portraying dual roles against green screens, the actors had to bring their A-game to create a seamless visual experience for viewers. Jimmi Simpson, who plays the dual role of Walton in the episode, had to undergo physical training to embody the character’s transformation from tech-bro to caveman. The technical aspects of filming against green screens and coordinating eyelines added an extra layer of complexity to the already intricate production.
Director Toby Haynes, who helmed the original episode, described the sequel as “maybe the most ambitious ‘Black Mirror’ episode ever made.” The visual language of the new episode draws inspiration from gaming aesthetics, with fast-paced action sequences and farcical elements that set it apart from its predecessor. Haynes sought to create a unique visual identity for the sequel, moving away from pastiche and establishing a distinctive style that pays homage to classic sci-fi while forging its path.
As the cast and crew navigated the challenges of bringing the sequel to life, they found moments of connection and inspiration in the characters’ emotional journeys. The climactic face-off between Nanette and a younger, more innocent Daly in a virtual suburban garage stands out as a pivotal moment in the story. Milioti described the scene as a deep exploration of human nature and the complexities of relationships, highlighting the nuanced performances that drive the narrative forward.
With its blend of drama, comedy, and action, “USS Callister: Into Infinity” promises to be a thrilling addition to the “Black Mirror” universe. Brooker’s ability to balance mainstream appeal with dark, thought-provoking storytelling ensures that fans will be left satisfied with the sequel’s evolution. As the episode premieres on Netflix, viewers can expect a rollercoaster ride of emotion, suspense, and unexpected twists that stay true to the essence of the original “USS Callister” episode.
