Ep 2. Arkangel

Arkangel tells the story of a mother, Marie, who opts to implant her daughter Sara with a security device, known as Arkangel, in order to safeguard and monitor her at all times. Arkangel provides a real-time feed of everything her daughter sees and hears, and even has a built-in filter that can block out any disturbing images or experiences that might traumatize Sara. At first, Marie feels secure knowing that her daughter is safe from the harshest realities of the world, like violence and sex. However, as Sara grows older, Marie begins to realize that the Arkangel device has stifled her daughter's normal emotional reactions and behaviours.

When teenage Sara discovers the true extent of the Arkangel's impact on her life, she becomes angry and rebellious, seeking out risky and dangerous experiences. Marie eventually loses all control over her daughter, who becomes increasingly erratic and emotionally disturbed. In the end, Marie must decide whether to keep trying to control Sara's life or to let her go free to make her own choices.

This episode explores the dangers of overprotective parenting and the potential consequences of using technology to regulate and monitor children's lives. It raises important questions about the balance between safety and freedom, and the role of technology in our personal relationships. The episode incorporates many of the themes that have come to define the Black Mirror series, including the dangers of conformity, the pitfalls of trusting technology too much, and the importance of human connection in a world that is increasingly dominated by machines.

The writing is sharp and insightful, and the acting is top-notch. The mother-daughter relationship between Marie and Sara is complex and nuanced, with both characters struggling to navigate the rapidly changing dynamics of their lives. The episode is visually rich and thought-provoking, with many memorable scenes that will stay with viewers long after the credits have rolled.

Overall, Arkangel is a compelling entry in the Black Mirror series, and one that will resonate with parents and children alike. It presents a cautionary tale about the danger of wielding too much power over someone else's life, and the importance of trusting people to make their own choices, even if those choices lead to discomfort or pain. This is a must-watch episode for fans of the series, and for anyone who has ever wondered about the true costs of technology.