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While the latest installment of Black Mirror showcases plenty of mind-bending sci-fi in episodes like “Joan Is Awful” and “Beyond the Sea”, it also delves into the realm of horror.
One standout episode, “Demon 79”, tells the story of a woman who summons a demon that demands human sacrifices to prevent the apocalypse. This narrative firmly places it within the horror genre, with a noticeable nod to Stephen King at its core.
Exploring Black Mirror’s “Demon 79”
The episode follows Nida, a sales assistant in a 1979 North England shoe shop, amidst the rise of Britain’s far-right fascist National Front. Nida’s life takes a drastic turn when she discovers a talisman that summons a demon named Gaap, who reveals to her the need to kill three people to avert the apocalypse. Gaap assists Nida by providing glimpses into the past and future lives of her potential victims.
Central to the story’s climax is white supremacist Conservative politician Michael Smart, whom Nida realizes will play a significant role in the nation’s future. Determined to prevent Smart’s destructive path, Nida decides to make him her final victim.
Comparing “Demon 79” to Stephen King’s The Dead Zone
In Stephen King’s novel The Dead Zone, the protagonist Johnny Smith uncovers a dark future after encountering a ruthless politician destined to bring about societal collapse. Like Nida in “Demon 79”, Johnny embarks on a mission to prevent this catastrophic outcome by targeting the politician.
While the plots of the two stories may not align perfectly, they share similarities in themes and character motivations. The eerie parallels between the two narratives suggest a deeper connection, especially with subtle references like Gaap’s revelation about Smart’s past.
Don’t miss out on Black Mirror Season 6 now streaming on Netflix.
Topics
Black Mirror
Netflix
Stephen King
