Black Mirror returned to Netflix this month with its first new episodes in four years. That's just a blip in the grander scheme, but the world nevertheless looks a lot different than it did in 2019. Simulated realities, AI chatbots, endless data breaches — life's begun to feel more malleable than ever and season 6 of Charlie Brooker's renegade mind-bender reflects that eerie truth.

Black Mirror's sixth season, comprised of five episodes, indulges in comedy, tragedy, and good old-fashioned scares. Once again, the show employs a roster of A-list talent — usually tasked with playing against type — to enact the bizarre tales. Even Oscar darling Cate Blanchett turns up, but, this being Black Mirror, her performance isn't the kind you're likely to see on the awards circuit.