‘Black Mirror’ Season 7 Episode 4: ‘Plaything’ – Recap and Ending Explained

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The fourth episode of ‘Black Mirror’ Season 7, titled ‘Plaything,’ continues the series with a narrative that combines the grunge aesthetic of the 1990s and warps it into a disturbing, near-future scenario. This installment bears the distinct mark of Charlie Brooker – technology run amok, human fixation, and an unsettling ambiance. The story revolves around Cameron, a character whose existence becomes intertwined with a video game that transcends mere screen pixels. True to ‘Black Mirror’ form, it provokes questions about reality and what truly matters.

In this story, Peter Capaldi stars as an older Cameron, while Lewis Gribben portrays his younger counterpart. The narrative jumps between two distinct time periods, which unexpectedly intersect in a thrilling manner. Joining them are Will Poulter and Asim Chaudhry, reprising their roles from ‘Bandersnatch’ as Colin Ritman and Mohan Thakur respectively. Let’s embark on this journey together, tracing its beginning, end, and the message it aims to convey.

Recap of ‘Plaything’

The narrative begins by finding Cameron in a predicament – he’s been apprehended for attempting to steal alcohol from a store. The police identify him as a possible murder suspect due to a swift DNA test, leading them to an interrogation room with DCI Kano and psychologist Jen Minter. Here, Cameron begins recounting his tale. We travel back to the 1990s, where young Cameron is a quiet kid writing game reviews for PC Zone. His household life is challenging due to his abusive father, and he lacks supportive friends. However, Colin Ritman, a prominent coder from Tuckersoft, reaches out for a meeting, altering the course of Cameron’s life significantly.

Colin has recently acquired an intriguing new game called Thronglets. This is a personal digital project of his featuring adorable creatures that develop and multiply. He’s incredibly excited about it, claiming they possess consciousness and form part of a ‘sympathetic swarm’ intended to elevate humanity. Cameron finds himself captivated by this concept. As Colin momentarily steps out to take some medication, an opportunity arises for Cameron: he swiftly makes off with the game disc.

At home, he’s devotedly caring for these Thronglets, completely absorbed, until his roommate Lump starts destroying them for amusement. Matters escalate—Colin destroys the game’s programming after a meltdown, Tuckersoft discontinues it, and Cameron is left enraged at Lump. Fast-forward, and we discover he murdered Lump over it, leading to his current predicament.

Ending Explained

In the interrogation room, Cameron requests a pen and paper, explaining that it aids his thought process. When they eventually comply, instead of writing a confession, he draws a code resembling a QR symbol and directs it towards the security camera. Instantly, this action activates the state’s computer system, causing a signal to be sent to every device worldwide.

In the movie I’m watching, it’s me grinning ear-to-ear as the officers crumple, felled by a strange pulse emanating from their very phones. And boy, does Peter Capaldi deliver that unsettling moment with aplomb, his face aglow like he’s just hit the jackpot! Cameron claims this Throng is merging with us humans, connecting every mind into one massive collective consciousness to put an end to all strife.

Is the situation resolved? It’s uncertain since the scene ends abruptly with Cameron attempting to aid or taunt an unconscious DCI Kano. This ambiguous ending leaves one pondering: is this a fresh beginning for humanity, or was it a ruse by the Throng to annihilate us? Regardless, it presents a harsh perspective on relying on technology for salvation, and Cameron’s smile suggests he’s fully committed, regardless of the consequences.

A Throwback That Bites Back

Stepping into the realm of ‘Plaything,’ I find myself immersed in a nostalgic echo of the 1990s gaming era, complete with floppy disks and bulky computers. However, this trip down memory lane takes an ominous turn. I’m not just a casual player; I’m a guardian for these digital beings, and Capaldi breathes life into Cameron with an infectious intensity that lingers long after the game ends. Poulter links it to ‘Bandersnatch,’ but this isn’t a remake; it’s a bold exploration of how technology can overpower our minds. The visuals are nothing short of extraordinary, blending retro aesthetics with a suffocating future that traps me right alongside Cameron, sharing his struggle for freedom.

The question posed is thought-provoking and leaves one pondering: Are we puppeteers or the puppets? Cameron believes he’s working for the greater good, yet his actions may have inadvertently surrendered it. While not the most profound ‘Black Mirror’ episode, it has a gritty appeal and maintains a gripping tempo that keeps viewers captivated. For such a brief 45-minute journey, it packs quite an impactful punch – more about making you sense the burden of an idea gone horribly awry rather than preaching a lesson.

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2025-04-10 15:14