If anything, the dystopian world Charlie Brooker created to show us how we will misuse benign technology until it destroys us all, is a little too convincing. I know this because I’ve just watched the latest series, and it would appear that Black Mirror has finally fallen into a black hole of its own making.
Continue reading “Black Mirror 4: It’s Life Jim…”
Today I learned that America’s opiate abuse problem is, to all intents and purposes, sponsored by the major pharmaceutical companies, who are also substantial donors to presidential campaigns of both colours.
I wish I’d gone with my first instinct and watched Susan Calman on Strictly instead.
Continue reading “Louis Theroux: Dark States, Heroin Town”
I’m in two minds about Tin Star. Ironic really, given the nature of the show, but I feel obliged to give you fair warning as my internal dialogue is likely to influence this review heavily.
Continue reading “Tin Star: Close, but no cigar”
The State is exactly what drama should be. A show that raises questions about the world we live in, questions that we may or may not want to answer. Questions that we may not get the answers to; but will make us think, nonetheless.
The journey of those who leave British shores to travel to Syria in the ‘name’ of Islam is something that is debated on an hourly basis.
Despite what certain parts of the mainstream media would have you believe; the story isn’t as simple as a bunch of Muslims wanting to bomb us all because they despise western ways. Nor is it only brown people who make the decision to join ISIS or its variations. Like most things in life, it is far more complicated than that.
Many of the reasons are touched on in the first hour-long episode.
The young London Muslim who feels he is honouring his brother’s memory. The single mother who wants to offer her medical services as the new Islamic State builds itself. The young girl who has never used a communal bathroom and wants to be “a Lioness amongst the Lions”.
I’ve seen lots of comments suggesting that it is glamourising the idea of terrorism, but you rarely see that when the subject matter is rape or any other kind of abuse. Regardless, it doesn’t.
It’s trying to show you why people are making those decisions, and why some believe they are doing the right and noble thing when they make this choice. A choice that often results in them giving up their life.
It’s trying to show us that we cannot truly try to stop radicalisation until we consider the causes of how people are brainwashed in this way.
I don’t have all the answers, sadly none of us do. But maybe The State will help us all start to ask the right questions.
The State is on Channel 4 at 9pm until Wednesday, or it can be found on All4.
I adore Louise’s such obvious distaste for the Sam and Mimi situation. Hashtag big sister goals. As someone who has been there, done it and worn the t-shirt – she did date Spencer + Jamie – she can see the car crash coming a mile off.
Continue reading “Made in Chelsea – Ibiza: F**k your journey!”
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