Spoiler Warning: The following article includes spoilers from episodes of Black Mirror and American Horror Stories.
Overview
- The second episode of Black Mirror season 7 shares thematic elements with American Horror Stories’ “Bestie.”
- Both episodes portray characters who pursue friendships through harmful means, culminating in tragic outcomes.
- While “Bête Noire”concludes with a darkly comedic twist, “Bestie”presents a heart-wrenching finale.
Black Mirror season 7 made its debut on Netflix on April 10, 2025, and fans eagerly consumed the six new episodes. Delving into unsettling narratives where technology wreaks havoc in the lives of complex characters, this season features the show’s inaugural sequel, “USS Callister: Into Infinity,” which ends on a notably harsh note.
Although each episode of Black Mirror is a distinct and thought-provoking experience, one particular tale from season 7 resonates profoundly with viewers who enjoyed the American Horror Stories episode “Bestie.”
Why Fans of American Horror Stories’ “Bestie”Should Watch Black Mirror Season 7, Episode 2, “Bête Noire”
“Bête Noire,” the second episode of Black Mirror’s seventh season, draws parallels to the first episode of season 3 of American Horror Stories, “Bestie.”Both narratives revolve around characters who, in their quest for popularity, become embroiled in toxic relationships, exhibit bullying tendencies, and ultimately grapple with feelings of isolation. Both episodes also highlight charismatic yet malevolent antagonists who wield influence over their peers while masking their true intentions.
The plot of “Bête Noire”centers on Maria (Siena Kelly), an R&D employee at a food company, whose past high school classmate, Verity (Rosy McEwan), joins her team. Maria’s unease is palpable as she recalls how Verity was ridiculed during their school years, leaving her questioning Verity’s qualifications.
Despite being more self-assured than Shelby Brubaker (Emma Halleen) from “Bestie,”both Maria and Shelby are portrayed as deeply lonely and uncertain characters. Verity, through the use of a mystical pendant, distorts Maria’s perception of reality, leading her to doubt what is real. In a similar vein, Shelby’s online companion, Bestie (Jessica Barden), coerces her into harming others as a demonstration of loyalty. Both episodes feature themes of revenge, contributing to the unsettling narrative experience.
Since the release of the season 7 trailer, it has been evident that this installment comprises intricately crafted and unsettling narratives. A fascinating comparison can be drawn between Maria, Verity, Shelby, and Bestie. In their misguided efforts to forge connections, each character’s journey results in calamity. Verity and Bestie evoke an eerie fascination, reminiscent of the most compelling villains from American Horror Stories, as they initially present themselves as benevolent figures before unveiling their darker, controlling sides.
Insights from Charlie Brooker on Black Mirror Season 7, Episode 2, “Bête Noire”
Charlie Brooker, the creator of Black Mirror, shared his thoughts with Netflix.tudum.com regarding the closing scenes of “Bête Noire.”The narrative sees Maria in a position of power after seemingly eliminating Verity, making her the ruler of the universe, empowered by Verity’s pendant. Brooker commented:
“It’s fun to make it look like [Maria’s] absolutely lost everything in the last few moments and then have her triumphantly, phoenix-from-the-flame style, use this device to get out of the problem she’s in. It’s kind of a joke ending, but hopefully, it’s slightly absurd.”
While some episodes of Black Mirror conclude on a positive note, “Bête Noire”offers a darkly humorous and ironic ending. Maria succumbs to the tempting allure of power, reveling in her newfound status as empress, whereas Shelby’s fate in “Bestie”is tragically fatal. In both narratives, the protagonists find themselves isolated, unable to trust anyone, illustrating how their pursuit of popularity brings nothing but despair into their lives.