Familiar Infidelity, Translated Into a Less Familiar “Black Mirror” World

Today’s more accessible television is a direct response to the technological demands of today’s tech-driven consumers. Streaming services like Netflix and HBO’s online service HBO GO provide subscribers with a more immediate, personalized television experience, which the Internet has made them want and has made possible. As consumers’ habits have changed, streaming services like Netflix have acquired the means to produce their own shows. Though “Black Mirror” originated on Britain’s Channel 4, Netflix bought the rights in 2015 and recently released a third season that closely resembles the first two.

That “Black Mirror” seasons are released all at once and new HBO original series “Divorce” episode-by-episode is the least significant of the two shows’ differences. “Divorce” is a categorical comedy, and although its heavy titular theme leans toward drama, its severity could never match that of “Black Mirror.” Each episode of “Divorce” builds on the last, while “Black Mirror” is an anthology series. “Divorce” takes place in the modern world as we know it while “Black Mirror” tries to imagine where we will be in the near future if technology continues to advance the way it has. I could go on.

 

"Divorce"

Thomas Haden Church and Sarah Jessica Parker co-star as a married (and soon-to-be divorced?) couple on the new HBO series “Divorce.”

 

But the third and final episode in Season 1 of “Black Mirror” tackles the same themes of love and betrayal as the three episodes of “Divorce” that have been released, with an eerily similar plotline. Each centers on an unfaithful wife and her heartbroken husband as he tries to understand and possibly overcome the depth of her deception. The catalyst in each case is a dinner party with friends – clearly, as evidenced by these two stories, an environment that can easily expose an adult couple’s deep-seeded dissatisfaction.

In “Divorce,” Frances (Sarah Jessica Parker) looks on as her friend Diane (Molly Shannon) threatens to shoot her husband in a drunken rage, narrowly missing Frances’s own husband Robert (Thomas Haden Church). The incident makes Frances reconsider the viability of her own marriage, which, we soon learn, she’s been doing for at least a year – the amount of time she’s been having an affair with a professor named Julian. Whereas Robert doesn’t find out about Julian’s existence until the next day, the dinner party in the “Black Mirror” episode clues husband Liam (Toby Kebbell) in to the possibility of his wife Ffion’s (Jodie Whittaker) affair with her old friend Jonas as he watches the two awkwardly interact that night.

The revelation of Frances’s affair with Julian creates a dynamic that puts Robert on the defensive, which allows the show’s writers to give Robert quick, funny quips but takes away any real power viewers hoped to see Frances hold. By the third episode, the two seek marriage counseling, and Robert demands to know everything about Frances’s affair. “How many times?” he asks, to which Frances, after considerable thinking, answers, “Thirty-two.” In this scene, just as the show begins to feel unmanageable, as Robert gets angrier, threatening to take away any agency Frances had left, he reveals that he’s had an emotional affair with a woman he has remained close with since college. Not only does the exchange provide some comic relief, but it also makes their rocky relationship feel a bit more balanced as the impending divorce loom.

Now, back to the future: the new-age technology included in Season 1, Episode 3 of “Black Mirror” allows its characters to “redo” any past memories – yes, anything – in their heads or on various screens; the videos can be quickly conjured, rewound, zoomed in, or even analyzed with lip-reading technology. Just as Robert pushed to know the full extent of Frances’s affair, Liam agonizes over the apparent lies Ffion has told about her past with Jonas. She admits to a one-month relationship, then reveals they actually dated for six months; after drunkenly confronting Jonas and catching a glimpse of a recent intimate encounter between Jonas and Ffion in Jonas’s memory bank, Liam demands that Ffion shows him the whole thing to prove that their young child must be biologically his.

 

"Black Mirror"

Liam (Toby Kebbell) and his wife Ffion (Jodie Whittaker) play back one of Liam’s past memories on Season 1, Episode 3 of “Black Mirror,” titled “The Entire History of You.”

 

“Black Mirror” caters to George Cotkin’s (or, more accurately, Susan Sontag’s) New Sensibility very directly: the show takes our obsession with technology to a terrifying extreme in order to reflect on the tech-driven culture we’ve become so accustomed to. “Divorce,” however, reinforces the idea of the normal, nuclear family and the harm people incur when that normal structure is broken. The former calls attention to our willingness to conform to whatever piece of technology seems to improve our lives; the latter accepts what’s normal and even shows viewers how miserable life can be when they fail to conform effectively.

One missing piece of the integration of this “redo” technology is the intense paranoia that it could instill in its users to live their lives naturally. If a loved one could ask to see any point in a person’s history at any time, what privacy do these individuals maintain? Are they expected to live their lives worrying about a future encounter or else never keep a secret from anyone they love?

Bar this small hiccup, “Black Mirror” does a believable job of taking a well-known sequence of events – as shown in “Divorce” – and retelling that story with the advent of new technology that complicates the story’s ending. After seeing Ffion’s affair with Jonas on-screen, he can no longer bear to hold that memory and rips out the “grain” which would keep a copy of that experience and any happy memories he had with Ffion. Robert, on the other hand, does not have to make such a painful choice; whether he likes it or not, he keeps what natural memories, good and sour, he has from his marriage to Frances, and moves forward with the divorce. Given the two options, I’d choose to be Robert over Liam. As “Black Mirror” accurately proves, with advanced technology comes a responsibility to use it healthily that I’m not sure I could handle. Who knows, maybe one day I’ll have to make that choice.

31,603 Comments

  • bushra commented on November 3, 2023 Reply

    Thanks For sharing this Superb article.I use this Article to show my assignment in college.it is useful For me Great Work. Call girls in Jaipur

  • penerjemah ijazah commented on November 3, 2023 Reply

    Saya suka cara Anda menghubungkan konsep ini. penerjemah ijazah

  • Jasa Pest Control commented on November 3, 2023 Reply

    Terima kasih sudah mengeksplorasi topik ini dengan mendalam. Jasa Pest Control

  • Jasa anti rayap Jakarta Utara commented on November 3, 2023 Reply

    Saya suka bagaimana Anda menulis dengan semangat. Jasa anti rayap Jakarta Utara

  • Lel Brown commented on November 3, 2023 Reply

    Looking for reliable assistance with finance assignments? You’re in the right place! Our Finance Assignment Help guarantees accurate, on-time solutions to help you shine in your class. Mastering finance is no easy feat, but with our comprehensive Finance Assignment Help, we’ll guide you through every step of the way. Our team of seasoned financial experts is committed to ensuring your success in this complex subject. At the crossroads of financial challenges? Our Finance Assignment Help is the compass that will guide you through the intricacies of this field. We’re dedicated to providing meticulously crafted solutions, enabling you to stand out in your finance studies.

  • penerjemah bahasa inggris resmi commented on November 3, 2023 Reply

    Artikel yang bermanfaat untuk pemula. penerjemah bahasa inggris resmi

  • Jasa Anti Rayap Jakarta Barat commented on November 3, 2023 Reply

    Anda memberikan pandangan yang berbeda tentang masalah ini. Jasa Anti Rayap Jakarta Barat

  • james adam commented on November 3, 2023 Reply

    Nice blog I must say, if you are looking for best Bitcoin Cloud Mining In Andorra platform. I’ve been exploring various cloud mining platforms for Bitcoin, and I must say that Kafka Mining truly stands out. Their commitment to transparency, security, and efficiency is evident in the way they operate. The user-friendly interface makes it easy for beginners like me to get started, while their advanced features cater to experienced miners as well. The fact that Kafka Mining regularly updates their hardware to ensure optimal mining power is impressive and reassuring. I appreciate how they provide detailed information about their mining farms and maintenance processes, instilling a sense of trust. Overall, my experience with Kafka Mining has been fantastic, and I’m excited to see my earnings grow while benefiting from their top-notch services.

  • penerjemah bahasa mandarin tersumpah commented on November 3, 2023 Reply

    Saya ingin mengeksplorasi topik ini lebih dalam. penerjemah bahasa mandarin tersumpah

  • Basmi Rayap Tanaman commented on November 3, 2023 Reply

    Terima kasih sudah berbagi pengetahuan Anda. Basmi Rayap Tanaman

  • Fitout Companies in Dubai commented on November 3, 2023 Reply

    Hire the top Interior Fitout companies in dubai for Villas, Apartments, Commercial Spaces. Contemporary, Modern, or Luxury Interiors Turnkey Solutions.

  • gagalbangkitlagi commented on November 3, 2023 Reply

    Mencari pengalaman bermain slot terbaik dengan tingkat RTP tertinggi? Kunjungi CuanBet88 ! Platform perjudian online kami, didukung oleh server Thailand, terkenal karena menawarkan tingkat RTP tinggi di industri, mencapai tingkat kemenangan hingga 98% yang mengesankan.

  • md4291195 commented on November 3, 2023 Reply

    Use the SmartXonnect system to connect your smartphone to the scooter. This will give you access to a variety of features, including navigation, social media alerts, and live sports scores.
    https://sakfcsurvey.bond

  • Shia Quran Teachers commented on November 3, 2023 Reply

    Shia online Quran Teacher for kids & adults in USA – UK – Australia – Canada and in other western countries for learning the Arabic language.
    Shia Quran Teacher, an online Quran Shia teachers’ organization, is for people who are living abroad.

    We have professional certified, online Shia Quran teacher team who are very professional in Shiite Quran and other Fiqh Education.

    Shia Quran teacher Online is surely the best place for you to Learn Holy Quran.

  • Saad Ali commented on November 3, 2023 Reply

    If you’re seeking expert SEO services, visit our website for a boost. We’re here to enhance your online presence. https://apexages.com/

  • robertotto158 commented on November 3, 2023 Reply

    The Victorian era saw the development of many new architectural styles, including Gothic Revival, Italianate, and Queen Anne. Victorian houses were typically large and colorful, with many decorative features such as porches, turrets, and bay windows.
    https://gmsocrates.click

  • Yesfares commented on November 3, 2023 Reply

    Flying has never been more opulent! First class tickets redefine air travel. With unparalleled comfort and service, the experience is unmatched. From spacious cabins to exquisite dining, every moment is indulgent. First class tickets, the epitome of luxury mid-air, provide a journey beyond expectation. Fly in style, sophistication, and ultimate comfort with first class tickets.

  • votehi commented on November 3, 2023 Reply

    Luno is an easy crypto investment app for all. The platform makes it safe, secure, and easy to analyze, purchase and store cryptocurrency. The main motive of Luno is to give all the power of cryptocurrency to everyone’s hands. All this indicates that it helps you to finalize for yourself where, how, and when to invest your crypto to get more profit. Luno Login | Luno Login

  • sivoxi roy commented on November 3, 2023 Reply

    Luno is an easy crypto investment app for all. The platform makes it safe, secure, and easy to analyze, purchase and store cryptocurrency. The main motive of Luno is to give all the power of cryptocurrency to everyone’s hands. All this indicates that it helps you to finalize for yourself where, how, and when to invest your crypto to get more profit. Luno Login | Luno Login

  • Kids Premium Clothing commented on November 3, 2023 Reply

    Your blog is a must-read for anyone looking to add more positivity to their life, keep up the great work! I do have some recommendations for you to check out here: Kids Premium Clothing

  • syarat penerjemah commented on November 4, 2023 Reply

    Pembahasannya sangat lengkap. syarat penerjemah

  • penerjemah bahasa spanyol commented on November 4, 2023 Reply

    Artikel yang informatif dan mudah dimengerti. penerjemah bahasa spanyol

  • sworn translator jakarta commented on November 4, 2023 Reply

    Terima kasih atas rekomendasi yang bagus. sworn translator jakarta

  • jasa penterjemah termurah commented on November 4, 2023 Reply

    Artikel ini memberikan wawasan yang berharga. jasa penterjemah termurah

  • appskite commented on November 4, 2023 Reply

    Cash App is a popular mobile payment app that allows submit for app ideas you to send and receive money, as well as invest in stocks and even purchase Bitcoin. While its primary purpose is for transferring funds, there are a few legitimate ways to make money on Cash App in just a matter of minutes. However, it’s essential to approach these methods with caution and an understanding of the potential risks involved. Here are some ways to make money using Cash App:

  • Disney Plus commented on November 4, 2023 Reply

    disneyplus.com/begin offers an immersive experience, where we can dive into the magical worlds of Disney like never before.

  • AYAN commented on November 4, 2023 Reply

    Be grateful you for spending time to speak about this, I think strongly about that and delight in reading read more about this topic. Whenever possible, just like you become expertise, do you mind updating your web site with a lot more details? It can be highly great for me. Two thumb up in this article! haus of utopia

  • rebie tures commented on November 4, 2023 Reply

     You may be able to contact Coinbase help desk via Remittance. On their website, usually in the help section, look for a mailing address. Coinbase also offers support via phone call. Check their official phone number on their website.

    Coinbase, a popular cryptocurrency exchange, offers many features for advanced trading. These features are designed to meet the needs of experienced traders and investors who have a good understanding of the cryptocurrency market and want more control over their trading strategies. Coinbase advanced trading Platform is best for them.  

  • Coinbase help desk commented on November 4, 2023 Reply

     You may be able to contact Coinbase help desk via Remittance. On their website, usually in the help section, look for a mailing address. Coinbase also offers support via phone call. Check their official phone number on their website.

    Coinbase, a popular cryptocurrency exchange, offers many features for advanced trading. These features are designed to meet the needs of experienced traders and investors who have a good understanding of the cryptocurrency market and want more control over their trading strategies. Coinbase advanced trading Platform is best for them.  

  • jhon wily commented on November 4, 2023 Reply

    I John Wily, discovered this blog. Bitcoin Mining in Haryana .KafkaMining shines as a top choice among cloud mining services. They prioritize transparency, security, and efficiency in every aspect of their operation. What sets KafkaMining apart is its commitment to regularly upgrading its hardware to boost mining performance and providing detailed information about its mining farms and maintenance procedures, which builds trust. To sum it up, my experience with Kafka Mining has been fantastic, and I’m eagerly looking forward to watching my earnings grow, thanks to their exceptional services.

  • Coinbase help desk commented on November 4, 2023 Reply

    You may be able to contact Coinbase Help via Remittance. On their website, usually in the help section, look for a mailing address. Coinbase also offers support via phone call. Check their official phone number on their website. 

  • jasa penerjemah termurah commented on November 4, 2023 Reply

    Saya sangat suka bagaimana Anda menjelaskan topik ini. jasa penerjemah termurah

  • Rishu commented on November 4, 2023 Reply

    Our Delhi Call Girl know about the quick and dirty of the business and they guarantee 100% satisfaction. Make the challenging move to research our bewitching Delhi Escort females and pick what suits you precisely.

  • james adam commented on November 4, 2023 Reply

    Nice blog I must say, if you are looking for best Bitcoin Mining In Angola platform. I’ve been exploring various cloud mining platforms for Bitcoin, and I must say that Kafka Mining truly stands out. Their commitment to transparency, security, and efficiency is evident in the way they operate. The user-friendly interface makes it easy for beginners like me to get started, while their advanced features cater to experienced miners as well. The fact that Kafka Mining regularly updates their hardware to ensure optimal mining power is impressive and reassuring. I appreciate how they provide detailed information about their mining farms and maintenance processes, instilling a sense of trust. Overall, my experience with Kafka Mining has been fantastic, and I’m excited to see my earnings grow while benefiting from their top-notch services.

  • stevenmark commented on November 4, 2023 Reply

    MetaMask is an Metamask Chrome Extension for accessing Ethereum enabled distributed applications, or “Dapps” in your browser! The extension injects the Ethereum web3 API into every website’s javascript context, so that dapps can read from the blockchain. MetaMask also lets the user create and manage their own identities (via private keys, local client wallet …

  • penerjemah yogyakarta commented on November 4, 2023 Reply

    Informasi yang sangat relevan, terima kasih. penerjemah yogyakarta

  • hazel jones commented on November 4, 2023 Reply

    Dive into Hollywood’s finest collection at 9kmovies. Stream your favorite movies hassle-free.
    Step-by-step guide to download movies from Filmyzilla. Enjoy your favorite films hassle-free.

    9kmovies
    filmyzilla

  • penerjemah bahasa commented on November 4, 2023 Reply

    Artikel yang sangat berguna, terutama untuk pemula. penerjemah bahasa

  • creationgame3 commented on November 4, 2023 Reply

    As you delve deeper into the world of Little Alchemy 2, you’ll find that every combination of elements yields a unique result, and each new discovery opens up new possibilities. The game fosters creativity and curiosity, enticing players to explore the boundaries of their imagination as they strive to uncover the secrets hidden within the elements.
    https://creationgame.net/binoculars/

  • Disney Plus commented on November 4, 2023 Reply

    The documentaries on disneyplus.com/begin offer a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the magic that goes into creating Disney’s iconic stories.

  • jasa penerjemah thailand commented on November 4, 2023 Reply

    Terima kasah ilmu baru yang saya peroleh. jasa penerjemah thailand

  • 툰코 commented on November 4, 2023 Reply

    Very good points you wrote here..Great stuff…I think you’ve made some truly interesting points.Keep up the good work. 툰코

  • SimonWhitehead commented on November 4, 2023 Reply

    I was reading some of your content on this website and I conceive this internet site is really informative ! Keep on putting up. 3d areola tattoo training

  • Telkom University commented on November 4, 2023 Reply

    Can you provide a brief summary of the article “Familiar Infidelity, Translated Into a Less Familiar ‘Black Mirror’ World”? greeting : Telkom University

  • CV writing services commented on November 4, 2023 Reply

    Maximize your career potential with our professional CV writing services Ireland. Our team of dedicated writers is well-versed in the Irish job market, and we’re here to help you shine. Whether you’re targeting positions in Dublin, Cork, or beyond, our CVs are strategically designed to grab the attention of employers and recruiters. Invest in your future success with a CV that reflects your unique qualities and aspirations, crafted by the experts in CV writing services in Ireland.

  • robertotto158 commented on November 4, 2023 Reply

    True freedom is therefore not something that is simply given to us. It is something that we must achieve for ourselves. This requires effort, dedication, and a willingness to stand up for our rights.
    Gmsocrates

  • Arti pandey commented on November 4, 2023 Reply

    Becoming a full stack developer is a great career choice. In a world where technology is constantly evolving, full stack developers are in high demand. Companies are always looking for developers who can build, maintain, and improve their web applications. Full stack developers have a comprehensive understanding of both the front-end and back-end of a website, making them a valuable asset to any organization. They have an appreciation for the entire development process, from design to implementation and testing. Full stack developers are also able to quickly learn new languages and technologies, making them more marketable and adaptive. Fullstack classes in Pune

  • AYAN commented on November 4, 2023 Reply

    I thought I would leave my first comment. I don’t know what to say except that I have enjoyed reading. Nice blog. I will keep visiting. Switchboard Upgrade

  • AUDI commented on November 4, 2023 Reply

    Audi’s sporty S and RS models deliver exhilarating performance without compromising on luxury. AUDI

  • naila commented on November 4, 2023 Reply

    That’s not me not used to blogging and actually value internet site. You can find much innovative content that peaks my interest. Let me bookmark your website whilst checking you out of trouble. cat ninja

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *