The ‘Mazey Day’ episode of Netflix’s Black Mirror season 6 focuses on a young paparazzo named Bo (Zazie Beetz), who is determined to capture scandalous photos of a celebrity. Bo sells these images to her editor, showcasing the intrusive nature of tabloid journalism and the exploitation of privacy for profit. Set in the early 2000s, the episode models its titular character into a Britney Spears-esque celebrity figure; spoilers ahead!
One of the main themes explored in this episode is the dehumanization of celebrities and the consequences of living under constant surveillance. Bo’s relentless pursuit of capturing compromising moments reveals the dark side of our fascination with fame and the impact it has on the lives of public figures. Bo feels conflicted after one of the celebrities she sells pictures of commits suicide, after the photos effectively out him as a gay man before he was ready to tell the world.
As the episode progresses, it takes an unexpected turn when actress Mazey Day (Clara Rugaard), a celebrity stalked by Bo as she deals with her addiction and getting clean, transforms into a werewolf. This supernatural twist adds another layer of metaphorical commentary on the perception and treatment of celebrities. Mazey’s transformation into a creature of myth and legend highlights how society views them as less than human, reducing them to mere objects of fascination and entertainment.
The motivations and behaviors of the characters in ‘Mazey Day’ are driven by their desires for power, control, and validation. Bo’s relentless pursuit of scandalous stories stems from her ambition to rise in her career and gain recognition. Mazey, on the other hand, grapples with the pressures of fame and the loss of her humanity, leading her to seek solace in a secluded retreat. The clash between these characters represents the exploitative nature of the media industry and the toll it takes on individuals caught within its grip.
In terms of production, ‘Mazey Day’ employs visually striking cinematography to capture both the gritty reality of the tabloid world and the fantastical elements of Mazey’s transformation. The use of lighting, color palettes, and camera angles helps to create a distinct tone and atmosphere throughout the episode. The soundtrack complements the storytelling, amplifying the tension and emotional beats of the narrative.
The ending of ‘Mazey Day’ is a brutal one. As a werewolf, Mazey attacks and kills quite a few of the paparazzi stalking her, but before she can get to Bo, our main character shoots her. Mazey falls and begins to turn back into her human form, dying. Rather than put her out of her misery, Bo hands Mazey the gun, urging her to commit suicide as she raises her camera to capture the moment.
Overall, ‘Mazey Day’ delves into the dark underbelly of celebrity culture and tabloid journalism, highlighting the dehumanization and exploitation that often accompanies fame. It serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of our obsession with celebrities and the importance of recognizing the humanity behind the headlines. While this specific episode may not exist in the Black Mirror series, the themes and concepts it explores are in line with the show’s overarching exploration of technology and its impact on society.