The British sci-fi anthology series Black Mirror seemingly underwent many changes from its first two seasons to the three that followed, and there's a specific reason they're so different. While each of the episodes portrays an eerie, futuristic scenario, the earlier seasons have a very different atmosphere than the later ones. Whether audiences prefer one version of Black Mirror to the other, it's safe to say that Black Mirror seasons 1 and 2 are much different from seasons 3, 4, and 5.
The most apparent difference between Black Mirror's earlier seasons and later seasons is the visuals. Black Mirror seasons 1 and 2 have a very gray, gritty ambiance while the following seasons are incredibly colorful and vivid. This theme definitely applies to the show's visual palette but also affects the actual content as well.
Earlier episodes typically had a dark beginning, middle, and end, such as the classic Black Mirror pig Prime Minister episode. On the other hand, the later seasons often leaned into a happier, utopian world that later falls into chaos.
Black Mirror Seasons 1 & 2 Were Not Netflix Originals
Black Mirror seasons 1 and 2 were different from the following seasons because Netflix acquired it as an original series beginning with season 3. After obtaining Black Mirror, Netflix transformed the series from a blunt, British project to a more Americanized phenomenon. This is seen not only in the visual look of the show but also in the new abundance of American actors portraying more American themes and stories.
Another significant change from the first two seasons was the inclusion of more episodes. Black Mirror originally included a sparse three episodes for each season, but this feature changed for seasons 3 and 4. Instead of three episodes, these seasons included six, and it is rumored that Black Mirror season 6 will also include more than three. This change, though it gave audiences more content, took away some of the unique mystery of the original show.
Why Black Mirror's Early Seasons Are Still The Best
Despite the added flair of Netflix's Black Mirror, the earlier seasons are arguably better. Black Mirror seasons 1 and 2 have a very distinct, dark tone that pairs well with the science fiction themes the show centers around. Although the colors and facades in the later seasons aim to create dissonance from the disturbing storylines, the original Black Mirror avoided any type of charade and simply portrayed the episode as it was. In this way, the episodes were more intense and shocking than their successors. One newer episode that harks back to the original series is Black Mirror season 3's "Shut Up And Dance."
Most of all, the early seasons of Black Mirror are better because they aren't trying to be overly flashy or outstanding for a preset audience. The show always meant to shock but did it in a way that stayed true to the creator's artistic style rather than catering to a certain (American) audience. All in all, Black Mirror seasons 1 and 2 outrank the later seasons due to their strong connection to the original series idea and overall dedication to a shadowy, hard-to-watch, dystopian atmosphere.