New Black Mirror Development: Charlie Brooker’s Nubbin Tech
In a striking revelation, Charlie Brooker is reportedly working on a groundbreaking technology that could change the fabric of reality itself. This intriguing announcement coincides with the buildup to the highly-anticipated seventh season of Black Mirror.
On Thursday, The Hollywood Reporter unveiled a leaked email from TCKR Systems Communications, hinting at the debut of a new product named Nubbin. This intriguing piece of tech has appeared in various forms throughout the series, serving as a headpiece that numerous characters utilize to embark on thrilling adventures within their virtual minds.
While some might be tempted to think this is a genuine tech launch, it is essential to note that it is a cleverly designed Easter egg intended to excite fans ahead of the season premiere. The email details a live website showcasing this fictional implantable technology, accompanied by a disclaimer about potential risks associated with it.
Additionally, TCKR Systems maintains a professional presence on LinkedIn and has even shared a promotional video on TikTok. The video hints at appearances of Nubbin in upcoming episodes, including “Eulogy,” “Hotel Reverie,” and a sequel to the acclaimed “USS Callister.”
“Hey Charlie,
We are almost all set for the launch of THE NUBBIN™ – whoop!!
I am sending you the final assets for one last check and when you’re happy I’ll send out to the press list I’ve created. LMKWYT xxxxx”
Interestingly, the TCKR employee followed up the initial email with a request to disregard it, adding to the playful intrigue surrounding this campaign.
The TCKR Connection in Black Mirror
The TCKR Systems company is central to many plots within Brooker’s Black Mirror universe, previously introduced in the interactive film Black Mirror: Bandersnatch, Netflix’s inaugural interactive offering. These Easter eggs serve as enriching details for dedicated fans, connecting various episodes through the TCKR narrative thread.
TCKR Systems emerges as a reincarnation of Tuckersoft, a company that met its demise in one of the endings of Bandersnatch, only to resurface in a new form in 1984. It has been referenced in multiple episodes, including “San Junipero,” “Playtest,” and “Black Museum,” effectively cementing its place in the lore of the series.
Brooker has previously discussed the expansive potential of the narrative universe, stating, “As Colin Ritman explained, there are many, many realities and universes,” alluding to TCKR’s potential influence on the overarching storyline.
Anticipating Season Seven
This latest marketing tactic isn’t new for Netflix or Brooker, who previously created interactive campaigns with Bandersnatch, directing viewers to an now-defunct Tuckersoft website that featured job postings for the fictional company.
The seventh season, premiering on April 10, features six episodes, with one titled “Plaything,” a callback to Brooker’s earlier work that showcases actor Will Poulter reprising his role as the beloved gamer Colin Ritman. The episode is directed by David Slade, who also helmed Bandersnatch and the season four installment “Metalhead.”
Since the release of Bandersnatch, Poulter stepped back from Twitter, prompting fans to speculate about his return and involvement in upcoming episodes. Only time will tell how this Easter egg evolves and impacts the narrative.
In the meantime, feel free to explore Nubbin. You were warned!