Here Is Every "Black Mirror" Episode Ever, Ranked From Worst To Best

Obviously, "San Junipero" is one of the better ones.

While Black Mirror is known for its riveting psychological twists and chilling social commentaries, its growing fan base is constantly disputing which episodes are works of genius, and which are better off skipped. In this list, I'll be ranking my personal opinions on this topic based on creativity, memorability, meaningfulness, and intrigue.

14. Worst: "Men Against Fire" (Season 3, Episode 5)

Netflix

While the twist in this episode is nearly enough to save it, its slow pace and at times confusing plot makes for an overall unfavorable viewing experience which will likely prevent me from returning for a second viewing.

13. Worst: "The National Anthem" (Season 1, Episode 1)

Netflix

Being the first episode of the series, "The National Anthem" had a lot resting on its shoulders. In my opinion, its reliance on shock value did the remainder of the series little justice, and it would have been better suited as the second or third episode.

12. Worst: "The Waldo Moment" (Season 2, Episode 3)

Netflix

Overly political and generally unbelievable, the more entertaining moments offered by "The Waldo Moment" are quickly overshadowed by the irritating and long scenes of Waldo himself.

11. Worst: "Smithereens" (Season 5, Episode 2)

Netflix

"Smithereens" drags an initially intriguing premise out into a long-winded, uninteresting dredge of lessening tension. Ultimately, what could have been a good commentary on our addiction to technology pans out to be unmemorable.

10. Worst: "Nosedive" (Season 3, Episode 1)

Netflix

With a perplexing ending and a metaphor which felt aggravatingly heavy-handed at points, "Nosedive" felt pulled in too many directions to work as an enjoyable episode of Black Mirror.

9. Worst: "Rachel, Jack and Ashley Too" (Season 5, Episode 3)

Netflix

Despite the Disney Channel-esque vision "Rachel, Jack and Ashley Too" is inspired by, its wholesome family fun and manically upbeat ending ultimately creates a piece of media which could function well in another show, but doesn't feel like an episode of Black Mirror.

8. Worst: "Metalhead" (Season 4, Episode 5)

Netflix

Though the creative drive and ambition behind "Metalhead" is admirable, its relatively short run time still feels exhaustingly drawn out with the absence of dialogue or much meaningful interaction between characters.

7. Best: "White Bear" (Season 2, Episode 2)

Netflix

"White Bear" thrusts viewers into the confusing, terrifying world of a woman who wakes up with amnesia, learning the harrowing truth alongside her as she struggles to understand what is happening.

6. Best: "San Junipero" (Season 3, Episode 4)

Netflix

In contrast to the dark and ominous nature of most Black Mirror episodes, "San Junipero" brings viewers along for a heartbreaking romance spanning visually interesting and beautiful decades.

5. Best: "Playtest" (Season 3, Episode 2)

Netflix

Treading more into the territory of outright horror, "Playtest" is a viewing experience which is at times fun, and at times utterly brutal. The ending of this episode packs a thorough and satisfying punch.

4. Best: "Shut Up and Dance" (Season 3, Episode 3)

Netflix

"Shut Up and Dance" is a heart-pounding race against time, complete with a twist that turns the perspective of the viewers on its head. Like "White Bear," this episode masterfully bends the viewer's perception from the start until the end.

3. Best: "Fifteen Million Merits" (Season 1, Episode 2)

Netflix

From the wildly inventive world to the unforgettable monologue at its conclusion, this episode delivers a biting commentary into the world of modern social hierarchies and the nature of the entertainment industry.

2. Best: "White Christmas" (Season 2, Episode 4)

Netflix

Of every extreme Black Mirror twist, "White Christmas" delivers the most complete, jaw-dropping, heartbreaking one of all. Packing elements of classic existential horror and technological nightmares over three miniature stories, the conclusion to this episode packs an unforgettable punch suitable for any time of year.

1. Best: "USS Callister" (Season 4, Episode 1)

Netflix

This colorful, campy episode features both brain-twisting horror and brilliant social commentary into the world of modern toxic masculinity. It's an episode I've rewatched several times, and find myself returning to over and over.

So, what are your thoughts? Do you agree or disagree with my ranking? Let me know in the comments below!