Netflix has once again proven its knack for biting the hand that feeds it, and X users are loving the irony. The streaming giant dropped the seventh season of Black Mirror on April 10, 2025, and its opening episode, “Common People,” has sparked a wave of reactions for its sharp self-satire.
Without giving away spoilers, the episode dives into the murky waters of how streaming platforms, startups, and corporations with subscription models don’t just manage but outright manipulate their users — a pointed critique from a company that has raised its subscription prices three times in the past four years.
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The episode, starring Rashida Jones and Chris O’Dowd, is a rollercoaster of emotions, blending dark humor with gut-wrenching tragedy, often within the same scene. It tackles timely issues head-on: the absurdity of draconian subscription tiers, the lengths marketers go to embed ads into our lives, and the rise of trash-streaming culture fueled by desperate donors.
X users have been quick to point out the irony of Netflix airing an episode that mirrors its own business practices, with some calling it “diabolical” and others noting how the show calls out the platform’s ad-filled base model while doing the exact same thing.
If you’re hesitant to dive into another series, the consensus on X and beyond is clear: just watch episodes one and three. The premiere, in particular, has been hailed as a return to Black Mirror’s roots, echoing the raw, thought-provoking vibe of its early seasons on Channel 4.
It’s a stark reminder of why the show became a cultural touchstone—delivering dystopian sci-fi that feels all too real. Critics and fans alike have praised its emotional depth and relevance, with some even saying it’s the strongest Netflix-era episode yet. So, if you’re up for a mix of laughter, tears, and a hard look at the subscription economy, Black Mirror Season 7’s opener is a must-see.
