"Metalhead" starts with a good idea. Like so many "Black Mirror" episodes, it takes a technology that has an analogue in today's world - robot guard dogs - and then imagines some horrible consequences of that technology. But here's the problem: instead of the interesting, provocative issues that might be discussed (think about the unforgettable "Hated in the Nation"), the whole story is just a prolonged chase scene. It's reminiscent of Spielberg's celebrated TV movie of Richard Matheson's "Duel." But while "Duel" generates real tension with its sympathetic protagonist, "Metalhead" is a boring failure. It's only 41 minutes but feels way too long.
That said, the episode is not a disaster. The black-and-white cinematography is effective, and there are a few moments of suspense and cleverness in the struggle. But it's one of the weakest episodes of the generally excellent "Black Mirror."
That said, the episode is not a disaster. The black-and-white cinematography is effective, and there are a few moments of suspense and cleverness in the struggle. But it's one of the weakest episodes of the generally excellent "Black Mirror."