Ep 1. USS Callister

Black Mirror season 4 episode 1, titled USS Callister, follows the story of a talented but socially awkward programmer and his fantasy world. Robert Daly is the co-founder of a high-end video game company, but he is often overlooked and belittled by his colleagues. To escape his mundane life, he uses his company's technology to create a virtual reality game called Infinity. In Infinity, he's the captain of a spaceship called USS Callister, and he gets to live out his wildest fantasies - reimagining his co-workers as crew members and himself as their fearless leader.

The episode begins with a new employee, Nanette Cole, starting her first day at the company. She's immediately impressed by Robert's intelligence, but soon realizes he is socially awkward and a bit odd. When she is invited to join him in the virtual world of Infinity, she discovers the dark side of Robert's obsession. In the game, Robert is controlling and cruel to his fellow crew members, and Nanette soon becomes trapped in his fantasy world.

As Nanette struggles to escape, she discovers the full extent of Robert's power in the virtual reality realm, and the dangerous lengths he will go to fulfill his whims. The episode explores themes of power and control, as well as the consequences of unchecked desire.

The USS Callister is a thrilling ride, full of twists and turns. As with other episodes of Black Mirror, it forces viewers to question the role of technology and its impact on society. It's a cautionary tale of what can happen when our fantasies are allowed to run rampant, unchecked by morals or empathy.

The episode is masterfully crafted, with stunning visuals and a top-notch cast. Jesse Plemons shines as Robert Daly, creating a multifaceted character who elicits both sympathy and fear. Cristin Milioti is also exceptional as Nanette Cole, conveying a wide range of emotions as she moves from admiration to fear and desperation.

Overall, USS Callister is a standout episode in an already exceptional series. It will leave viewers on the edge of their seats, questioning their own relationships with technology and the role it plays in their lives. It's a must-watch for fans of Black Mirror and anyone who enjoys thought-provoking, dark sci-fi.