WARNING: This article contains spoilers for Black Mirror Season 7, Episode 5, titled “Eulogy.”
The Essence of “Eulogy”
The latest episode of Black Mirror, “Eulogy,”delivers an emotionally charged narrative featuring an intimate cast, with Oscar nominee Paul Giamatti at the forefront. This episode, the fifth in the much-anticipated seventh season, chronicles Phillip’s journey through a landscape of haunting memories as he confronts the loss of his ex-girlfriend, Carol Royce, formerly known as Carol Hartman. Set against the backdrop of coastal New England, Giamatti’s character embarks on a poignant exploration of their shared past, spurred by the news of Carol’s passing.
Utilizing cutting-edge technology known as Eulogy, Phillip uncovers and re-experiences memories captured in photographs from years gone by. By the episode’s conclusion, he emerges with newfound clarity about the complexities of their relationship and the reasons behind its failure. Central to this enlightening journey is The Guide, an AI-created persona brought to life by actress Patsy Ferran. Interestingly, The Guide is revealed to be Carol’s daughter, Kelly, who embodies her mother’s essence while sparing Kelly the emotional strains of revisiting such intimate memories during her time of grief. Despite its small cast, “Eulogy”shines through powerful performances and a rich, immersive narrative.
Paul Giamatti as Phillip
Date of Birth: June 6, 1967
- Active Since: 1991
Paul Giamatti, at 57, is an acclaimed actor hailing from New Haven, Connecticut. His accolades include an Emmy, three Golden Globe Awards, and two Academy Award nominations for his performances in Cinderella Man (2006) and The Holdovers (2023). After completing his education at Yale University, he made his Broadway debut in 1995, subsequently starring in pivotal films like Saving Private Ryan, Sideways (2004), The Illusionist (2006), and 12 Years a Slave (2013). Giamatti clinched an Emmy Award for his portrayal of John Adams in the critically acclaimed HBO series of the same name. Recently, he has drawn attention for his role in the award-winning film The Holdovers and the hit Showtime series, Billions.
Notable Movies & TV Shows:
| Film/TV Show | Character |
|---|---|
| Billions | Chuck Rhoades |
| The Holdovers | Paul Hunham |
| Sideways | Miles |
Character: Within Black Mirror‘s “Eulogy,”Giamatti portrays Phillip, a man grappling with the lingering scars of his past.
Patsy Ferran as The Guide / Kelly Royce
Date of Birth: November 25, 1989
- Active Since: 2014
Patricia “Patsy” Ferran, 35, is a talented Spanish-British actress born in Valencia, Spain. A graduate of the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London, she has honed her skills both in front of the camera and on stage. Ferran began her film career in 2017 with a role in the Oscar-winning Darkest Hour, paving the way for further appearances in films like Tom & Jerry (2021), Living (2022), and the upcoming White Bird (2024). In television, her credits include Jamestown (2017) and Life After Life (2022). Most recently, she starred in Bong Joon-ho’s Mickey 17 with a star-studded cast including Robert Pattinson and Toni Collette. Ferran will also feature in Noah Baumbach’s Jay Kelly, alongside George Clooney, Adam Sandler, and Laura Dern.
Notable Movies & TV Shows:
| Film/TV Show | Character |
|---|---|
| Miss Austen | Jane Austen |
| Mickey 17 | Dorothy |
| Jay Kelly | TBA |
Character: In “Eulogy,” Ferran takes on the dual roles of The Guide and Carol’s daughter, Kelly, leading Phillip through his journey of reminiscence.
Declan Mason as Young Phillip
Image via Netflix
- Active Since: 2017
Declan Mason is an actor and musician currently based in London, England. Although his filmography is still developing, he made his debut in a 2017 episode of Free Rein as Eric the Elf. His other credits include two short films, Lazarus and T*ts, before his poignant portrayal of Young Phillip in Black Mirror. Free Rein enjoyed a successful three-season run on Netflix, airing from 2017 to 2019. Mason’s future projects remain unannounced at this time.
Character: Mason plays the younger version of Phillip in Black Mirror‘s “Eulogy,”serving to illuminate the character’s past.
Supporting Cast of “Eulogy”
Hazel Monaghan as Young Carol: Monaghan plays the youthful version of Carol, appearing in the episode’s closing moments. She is recognized for her roles in various productions, including In a Land of Plenty, Gypsy Woman, and Heartlands.
Ava Galindez as Emma: Galindez portrays Emma, a character Phillip has a brief liaison with while maintaining a long-distance relationship with Carol. This role marks Galindez’s entry into the film and television industry.
Ramesh Nair as Karthik: Nair plays Karthik in “Eulogy,”bringing experience from his appearances in Shop of Little Pleasures, Kalahari Gemsen, and Catherine Called Birdy.
Paul Kissaun as Photo Assistant: Kissaun appears as the Photo Assistant who aids Phillip in developing memories stored on a disposable camera. His notable works also include Kaos, Batman Begins, and Evita.
Dominic Bruce-Radcliffe as Zeke: Bruce-Radcliffe makes his screen debut in “Eulogy.”
Michael Sotillo as Adam: Sotillo also marks his acting debut in this episode.
Sophie Dragon as Amanda: Dragon debuts in the industry through her role in “Eulogy.”
Rebecca Ozer as Carol (voice): Ozer provides the voice of Carol as Phillip reads her emotional note in Black Mirror “Eulogy.”Her previous roles include works like Puck and Collector’s Item.
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