Black Mirror was a British television that was bought by Netflix in late 2017. Since then, numerous episodes have been made, each one posing a question on humans and futuristic technology. Recently, Netflix released Bandersnatch, a film allowing the watcher to choose what main protagonist (Stefan Butler) does. Due to the constant changes made by the viewer, this may have been very hard for the camera crew and the screenplay, but critically acclaimed director David Slade was able to do it flawlessly. The screen is able to go to the chosen scene without any hesitation in camera cuts or dialogue. It seemed that the movie knew what I was going to pick it was so smooth. In addition to the amazing technicalities of the camera work, the story is able to maintain a constant flow of characters arcs, tension building, and an overall story path. Even with the multiple pathways the watcher can choose, the film still is able to beautifully create a story line that is both well written and well acted.
One of the reasons why Bandersnatch became one of my all-time favorites (apart from the fact I could choose how it ended) was the question it kept asking the audience. How much free will do we actually have? As the movie progresses, Stefan begins to realize someone is controlling his instincts, creating an almost fourth wall break. This question leads Stefan to go crazy (performed wonderfully by Fionn Whitehead) as he searches for a way for him to free himself. Predetermined fate has always been a topic that got my attention. Did I make that grilled cheese sandwich for lunch because I wanted to, or did something else choose that for me? The psychological question will make anyone mad. However, only a truly bizarre show such as Black Mirror could perfectly ask the question and show its effect on already crazed people.
Black Mirror's Bandersnatch is Good/Good. David Slade is able to use interactive entertainment without taking away from the film itself. Camera work is perfectly as the scenes switch time and time again. The performances of Fionn Whitehead and Will Poulter leave audiences with hanging jaws. The only question left after watching it is, was I the one that wanted to watch it?
Great exploration of the text's arguments about free will. Interesting to note that this text is more interested in questioning free will more than making a singular argument about the topic (even though we often focus on ARGUMENTS and themes as ANSWERS). Great evaluative language and very effective crediting of those artists. Love the conclusion as well. Title is good, if a little neutral. Consider how you can give us a stronger sense of evaluative flavor from the title. Nice work, Evan!
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