Ep 3. The Entire History of You

Set in the not-too-distant future, Black Mirror is a science fiction anthology series that explores the dark side of technology and human nature. Each episode tells a different story, but all are united by the show's overarching themes of paranoia, isolation, and the perils of unchecked technological progress.

In season 1 episode 3, titled "The Entire History of You," we follow the story of Liam (Toby Kebbell), a man who has undergone a surgical procedure that implants a small device behind his ear called a "grain." The grain allows him to record everything he sees and hears, effectively giving him a perfect photographic memory. He can replay any moment from his life on a small screen or even on a larger TV.

At first, Liam uses the grain to reminisce about happy memories with his wife Ffion (Jodie Whittaker) and their young daughter. But soon, he becomes obsessed with rewatching every interaction he has with his co-workers, friends, and acquaintances. He scrutinizes their expressions and tone of voice, looking for hidden meanings and clues to their true motives.

When Liam attends a dinner party hosted by an old friend, he becomes fixated on a conversation between Ffion and another man named Jonas (Tom Cullen). Liam starts to suspect that Ffion and Jonas have a history together, despite their denials. He obsessively rewinds and replays the recorded footage from the party, analyzing every nuance of their interactions.

As Liam's paranoia grows, he becomes increasingly isolated from his family and friends. He starts to use his grain to spy on Ffion, even when she explicitly asks him to stop. He interrogates her about her past relationships and becomes convinced that she is lying to him.

Meanwhile, Liam's job is at risk due to his erratic behavior and declining performance. His co-workers are uncomfortable around him, and his boss warns him that he needs to get his act together or face the consequences.

Eventually, Liam's suspicions about Ffion and Jonas come to a head, leading to a confrontation that forces both of them to reveal their true feelings. As Liam sees the entire history of his relationship with Ffion play out on his TV screen, he is forced to confront the truth about himself and his own insecurities.

"The Entire History of You" is a powerful exploration of the dangers of technology and the corrosive effects of jealousy and paranoia on human relationships. It asks us to consider the consequences of perfect memory and the ways in which it can be both a blessing and a curse. The episode features strong performances from its lead actors and a thought-provoking script that is sure to leave a lasting impact on viewers long after the credits roll.