[Warning: Major spoilers for Season Seven, Episode Two of Black Mirror, titled “Bête Noire.” ]
Charlie Brooker’s Return to Black Mirror
In the latest season of Netflix’s acclaimed series Black Mirror, creator Charlie Brooker delves once more into the perplexing realm of parallel universes. The second episode of Season Seven, “Bête Noire,” features a suspenseful tale centered on Maria, a talented development executive played by Siena Kelly (known for her roles in Domino Day and Temple).
A Twist of Fate
Maria’s seemingly perfect life takes a dark turn when a familiar face from her past, Verity (portrayed by Rosy McEwen), joins her department for a focus group tasting session at a prestigious chocolate company. As Verity’s presence begins to unsettle Maria, it becomes clear that Verity is not merely a former schoolmate, but a formidable computer genius with a devious plan. Unbeknownst to others, she possesses a device that allows her and Maria to traverse different parallel universes, with their fates intertwined in an unsettling rivalry rooted in childhood bullying.
Behind the Scenes with Rosy McEwen
McEwen, a recipient of the British Independent Film Award for her role in Blue Jean, reveals her excitement and trepidation about participating in this iconic series. Anticipating the premiere, she shares, “It’s always a bit unnerving to see what will be released,” but expresses unwavering faith in Brooker’s vision, emphasizing the trust she has in the team that has delivered a consistently compelling narrative.
The Audition Process
Reflecting on how she secured the role of Verity, McEwen recounts the audition process with enthusiasm. “I instantly connected with the character,” she notes. The opportunity to portray a complex and quirky persona excited her, allowing her to explore the depths of Verity’s character. Initially uncertain about her chances during the recalls, she was pleasantly surprised when chemistry blossomed with co-star Siena Kelly, leading to a collaborative and relaxed filming environment.
Filming on a Beloved Project
McEwen describes the filming process as one of the most enjoyable experiences she’s had, noting the clear vision that permeated the set. Under director Toby Haynes’ guidance, she was encouraged to push the boundaries of her character, enhancing the quirkiness Verity embodies. This collaborative atmosphere created a sense of ease, allowing the actors to fully immerse themselves in their roles.
A Unique Perspective on Technology
Addressing the broader narrative themes of Black Mirror, McEwen offers a fresh perspective on the show’s engagement with technology. Rather than adopting a purely cautionary stance, Brooker’s work invites viewers to view technological advancements with nuance. Particularly in “Bête Noire,” the episode balances eerie elements with humor, reflecting McEwen’s assertion that “finding the humor in darkness is crucial.” This comedic approach to complicated topics resonates strongly in today’s discourse around technology, particularly with the rise of artificial intelligence.
Exploring Verity’s Character
As the filming of “Bête Noire” progressed, McEwen and Kelly were eager to unravel the complexities of their characters. They engaged in deep discussions about Verity’s motivations, questioning the authenticity of her actions. Ultimately, Brooker’s directive to embrace their characters’ petty traits led to a rich exploration of human nature, emphasizing the absurdity that can stem from upbringing and insecurities.
Fun and Chaos on Set
Eager to bring her character to life, McEwen embraced the fun of shooting chaotic scenes, particularly one involving milk. The creative liberty afforded by the director enabled her to explore the character’s eccentricities, making the process both challenging and rewarding.
The Infinite Possibilities of Parallel Universes
When asked which parallel universe she would explore using Verity’s pendant, McEwen playfully contemplates both mundane and extravagant scenarios, like teleporting to the beach or experiencing extraordinary adventures. She recognizes the comedic potential in Verity’s exploits across multiple realities, emphasizing the trivialities that sometimes overshadow greater ambitions.
Anticipation for Audience Reactions
With Season Seven of Black Mirror now streaming, McEwen expresses her hope that audiences will appreciate the whimsy and light-heartedness of her episode, distinguishing it from the traditionally darker tones of the series. The charm of humor interwoven with bizarre elements presents a refreshing contrast, underlining Brooker’s ability to evoke laughter even amidst chaos.
Conclusion: A Collaborative Journey
Reflecting on her strong bond with Siena Kelly, McEwen remarks on the surprising success of their chemistry, especially as they tackled the final scene first. This unique approach shaped their performances, allowing them to channel initial nerves into their characters’ connection.
Black Mirror Season Seven is now available for streaming on Netflix. For additional insights, including episode rankings and exclusive interviews, visit The Hollywood Reporter.