Netflix's Black Mirror’s Season 7 - “Common People” - After thoughts

Black Mirror’s “Common People” Hit Me Hard—Here’s Why

I just wrapped up Episode 1 of Black Mirror Season 7, and I’m still processing it. The episode is titled “Common People”, and let me tell you—it hit me hard. I mean, sure, Black Mirror is known for digging deep into the dark side of technology, but this one? This one got under my skin.

I had actual goosebumps by the end.

No Spoilers, Just Vibes

Don’t worry—I’m not about to spoil the plot. But I will say this: Common People tackles the unnerving concept of subscriptions, not just in the usual “streaming service” way, but on a whole other level.

We’re talking about subscriptions to survive. Subscriptions to live.

Sound extreme? It’s really not.

As I sat there, post-episode, I had a moment of clarity:

“Why am I paying for so many subscriptions?”

Netflix. Adobe. Spotify. Cloud storage. AI tools. Fitness apps. Food delivery. Device warranties.

The list is long. And somehow, the message of this episode cut through all the noise and hit a nerve.

When Survival Becomes a Service

What Common People does so well is hold up a mirror to how normalized it’s become to pay to exist. We’ve reached a point where essential tools—communication, healthcare, security, even peace of mind—are being bundled, tiered, and locked behind paywalls.

And the kicker?

We're all playing along.

Whether it’s “Plus,” “Premium,” “Pro,” or “Enterprise,” we’re constantly nudged to upgrade, even when the features should’ve been there from the beginning.

This episode doesn’t just poke at that reality—it exposes it. It challenges how tech companies sell us survival as convenience, and how easy it is for the “common person” (yes, me too) to fall into that endless loop.

Tech Love with a Side of Existential Dread

Look, I love technology. I embrace it. I build my creative life around it. But when a show like Black Mirror makes me pause and rethink my relationship with that tech, it’s more than just good television—it’s necessary.

And that’s what makes Common People special.

It’s dark. It’s clever. And it’s the kind of episode that sticks with you long after the credits roll. The kind that starts conversations. The kind you rewatch, not for the twist, but for the truth it exposes.

Let’s Talk

Did you watch Common People? Did it mess with your head like it did mine? Do you feel the weight of all the digital subscriptions we “need” just to keep up?

Drop your thoughts in the comments—seriously. I’m curious how many of us felt this one deep. And as always, I’m looking forward to the next episode of Black Mirror Season 7.

Until then, stay safe. Stay curious. And maybe take a moment to audit those subscriptions.