In Season 7 of Black Mirror, creator Charlie Brooker continues to redefine tech-driven storytelling through dystopian, yet eerily relatable, narratives. The fifth episode, titled “Eulogy”, stands out not only for its emotional depth but for its thoughtful meditation on memory, grief, and the growing presence of AI in our lives.
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A Story Rooted in the Past Through Futuristic Tech
Co-written by Charlie Brooker and Ella Road, and directed by Chris Barrett and Luke Taylor, “Eulogy” stars Paul Giamatti as Phillip, a man contacted by a tech company called Eulogy, which informs him about the death of his former partner, Carol. The company requests access to immersive photo memories, launching Phillip into a haunting journey through his past.
Guided by The Guide (played by Patsy Ferran), Phillip discovers that all images of Carol have been digitally defaced, forcing him to revisit emotionally charged and unresolved fragments of their shared history. What unfolds is not a traditional sci-fi plot twist, but a deeply human experience shaped by flawed memory and emotional truth.
Brooker’s Insight: Memory, Scarcity, and Nostalgia
In an editorial introduction, Charlie Brooker reflects on the emotional power of old photographs—especially those taken before the digital age. He suggests that imperfections and scarcity give analog photos a nostalgic weight that today’s endless digital streams lack.
This concept inspired the core of “Eulogy”, which Brooker describes as aiming to be a “cathartic, therapeutic tearjerker.” The original concept had a more Dickensian feel, with a structure resembling A Christmas Carol—a nod reflected in the character’s name, Carol. Over time, the idea evolved into a more focused two-character narrative, anchored by a search for one forgotten memory.
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Giamatti’s Impact and the Shift in Character Dynamics
Initially, Phillip was conceived as a Mancunian character, but when Paul Giamatti—one of Brooker’s favorite actors—was considered for the role, the creative direction shifted. Giamatti’s performance, along with Patsy Ferran’s, brought emotional authenticity and depth to the episode.
According to Brooker, “Eulogy” doesn’t feature a sinister twist, as is often expected from Black Mirror, but rather delivers a deeply moving love story—“bittersweet and heartbroken,” yet kind to its characters.
Critical Recognition and Awards Potential
As part of Deadline’s It Starts on the Page Emmy feature, “Eulogy” positions itself as a strong contender in the 2025 Emmy race. With Black Mirror already boasting multiple Emmy wins, this emotionally resonant episode reinforces the anthology’s ability to evolve while staying true to its thematic roots.
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