Black Mirror season 4 episode 4 Recap and FAQ
Episode Summary
Frank and Amy, participants in a futuristic dating system, experience a series of controlled relationships. Their first encounter, limited to 12 hours, sparks a genuine connection. Despite subsequent pairings with others, they reunite and agree not to check their relationship's expiry date, seeking to avoid the system's influence. Frank breaks this agreement, causing tension. Realizing the system's manipulative nature, they plan an escape. The climax reveals their experiences were part of a simulation, testing their compatibility in the real world.
Full Episode S04E04 Recap
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the system that Frank and Amy are part of?
The system is designed to guide participants through various relationships to find their perfect match.
How do Frank and Amy first meet?
They meet at a hub, guided by a device called "Coach," as part of their arranged date by the system.
What is the "expiry date" in the context of the show?
The expiry date determines the duration of each relationship set by the system.
How long was Frank and Amy's first relationship supposed to last?
Their first relationship was set to last for 12 hours.
Do Frank and Amy develop a connection during their first encounter?
Yes, despite the initial awkwardness, they enjoy each other's company and develop a connection.
What happens after Frank and Amy's first relationship ends?
They both enter other relationships as dictated by the system.
How does Frank feel about his relationship with Nicola?
Frank finds his year-long relationship with Nicola unfulfilling and misses the connection he had with Amy.
What is Amy's experience with the system after parting with Frank?
Amy goes through a series of short, meaningless relationships, feeling increasingly detached.
Why do Frank and Amy decide not to check the expiry date during their reunion?
They hope to avoid the control and disappointment imposed by the system.
What happens when Frank checks the expiry date without Amy?
The expiry date dramatically reduces, leading to a strain in their relationship.
What do Frank and Amy plan to do as a form of rebellion?
They plan to escape together, defying the system's control.
How does the episode conclude?
The episode concludes with Frank and Amy escaping the system, which is revealed to be a simulation within a dating app.
What is the significance of the simulation in the episode?
The simulation is used to determine Frank and Amy's compatibility in the real world.
Where are Frank and Amy at the end of the episode?
They are in a bar in the real world, presumably about to meet for the first time.