Black Mirror: Bandersnatch

Interactive exploration of free will in tech-era

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About Black Mirror: Bandersnatch

Released: 2018

Platform: Netflix

Rating: TV-MA

Run time: 1h 30m

Cast
Fionn Whitehead, Will Poulter, Craig Parkinson, Alice Lowe, Asim Chaudhry

About Black Mirror: Bandersnatch

"Black Mirror: Bandersnatch" is a groundbreaking interactive film released as part of the British science fiction anthology series "Black Mirror" created by Charlie Brooker. It was released by Netflix in December 2018. This unique production allows viewers to make decisions on behalf of the main character, Stefan Butler, affecting the storyline and leading to multiple potential outcomes. The story is set in the 1980s and follows Stefan, a young programmer who is adapting a choose-your-own-adventure book into a video game. As he delves deeper into the project, he begins to question reality and faces the consequences of his choices.

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Making / Production

"Bandersnatch" was created using innovative technology that allowed viewers to make decisions throughout the film, leading to numerous possible storylines. The interactive nature of the film required meticulous planning and execution to ensure a seamless user experience.

Actors

  • ​Fionn Whitehead as Stefan Butler - Whitehead portrayed the conflicted protagonist, Stefan, with a nuanced performance that captured his inner turmoil.
  • Will Poulter as Colin Ritman - Poulter played the enigmatic game designer Colin, bringing charisma and mystery to the character.
  • Alice Lowe as Dr. Haynes - Lowe portrayed the therapist Dr. Haynes who interacts with Stefan, providing guidance and support.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

  • "Black Mirror: Bandersnatch" was initially conceived as an interactive experiment, pushing the boundaries of storytelling in film and television.
  • The film features multiple endings and branching storylines, offering viewers a unique and personalized viewing experience.

Awards

"Black Mirror: Bandersnatch" received several awards and nominations, including Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Television Movie and Outstanding Creative Achievement in Interactive Media within a Scripted Program.

Quotes

  • "The illusion of choice is still just as powerful as choice." - Colin Ritman
  • "Who's controlling you?" - Stefan Butler
  • "It's not the journey, it's the decisions that define it." - Bandersnatch game slogan

Music

The music in "Bandersnatch" plays a crucial role in setting the tone and enhancing the viewer experience. The soundtrack features a blend of 80s-inspired synth music and atmospheric compositions that reflect the film's themes of choice and consequence.

Soundtrack

  • "Relax" by Frankie Goes to Hollywood
  • "O Superman" by Laurie Anderson
  • "Love on a Real Train" by Tangerine Dream