Latest news with #BlackMirror:Bandersnatch
The Herald Scotland
15-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Herald Scotland
Thanks to Netflix, you will never watch this Black Mirror ever again
Bandersnatch gave the viewer the choice of what story beats would play out through numerous choices. It was not just a simple forked path but innovatively tracked the viewer across multiple watches, contained secret scenes to unlock depending on what choices were made, and displayed alternate endings depending on the user's own Netflix history. It was, at once, active and reactive. A well-thought-out execution for such an overt gimmick. Read more: Netflix and the films no one is actually watching The deletion is prompted by the streaming giant removing its Branch Manager engine, tech built to host and contain the interactive elements from outside the capabilities of Netflix's usual interface. But the bespoke nature of this tech and the little care Netflix has towards preservation mean that experiencing these works as they were intended becomes impossible. Archivists can scrape scenes and approximate how the title should be viewed, but the genuine article now sits in a locked vault of code somewhere in the basement of Netflix HQ. It's not just Black Mirror: Bandersnatch that finds itself being erased from time and space altogether – it is any title on the platform that uses the interactivity features Netflix was once so gung ho on experimenting with. Also seeing the chop is Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt: Kimmy vs the Reverend, Minecraft: Story Mode, and Carmen Sandiego: To Steal or Not to Steal, among others. Whatever is available on Netflix comes and goes, dependent on ever-changing licensing rights and the tedious process of expiry and renewal, but these interactive titles are owned and distributed by Netflix. It has long been assumed that such in-house titles are a permanent addition to their library, yet the recent decision to completely remove them betrays such confidence and conventional wisdom. Read more: Trump film tariff proves Scottish film cannot afford to sell out to Hollywood This raises some questions about digital preservation in the streaming era. Unlike traditional films or television, which can be archived properly and redistributed without much fuss if available, these interactive titles rely on specialised software to function and, without it, are lost entirely. How do we preserve such things in an environment that is so ephemeral and so unconsidered by its own makers? The crux lies in the impermanent nature of digital media. Even titles produced and owned by major platforms are no longer guaranteed to remain accessible. For fans of Bandersnatch, this means that unless Netflix reverses course or releases the title in a different format, its unique narrative vanishes without a trace. The move may also signal a shift in Netflix's strategy. Interactive storytelling, once seen as an innovative experiment, appears to have been deprioritised. While Bandersnatch was a critical and commercial success, later interactive titles failed to generate the same buzz. By sunsetting the Branch Manager engine, Netflix is definitively closing the book on this chapter of its history. There is a stark difference between the Netflix that once greenlit Bandersnatch and what arose after. Bandersnatch was produced in a streaming environment where money was thrown at the wall to see what would stick, where experimentation was encouraged, where notable auteurs like Martin Scorsese and David Fincher were given endless pots of money to make what they wanted, and where the platform was eager to differentiate itself from traditional television. Mindhunter, David Fincher's psychological serial killer series, was cancelled by Netflix due to financial issues (Image: Netflix) Netflix has now peaked in popularity, and its user base has declined for the first time in recent years. Focus on proven hits like Stranger Things, and the illusion of an endless stream of content to retain subscribers, regardless of quality, is now a safer and more financially sound direction for the waning giant. Film preservationists have long worked to rescue decaying reels collecting dust in warehouses and obscure forgotten releases from the abyss of history. Digital media has fixed a lot of the traditional problems associated with archival practices, but as seen here, it also presents new and unaccounted-for challenges. Some argue that piracy becomes a form of preservation in these cases. If corporations won't maintain access to their own works, fans and archivists must take matters into their own hands. But do archivists have to break the law to do what is for the greater good? For now, viewers hoping to revisit Bandersnatch or similar titles are left with few options – unofficial recordings, fan archives, or the slim chance of a future re-release. Bandersnatch remains a ghost in Netflix's servers – a relic of a time when the future of entertainment had the door open to more possibilities. Its removal is a reminder that in the digital age, nothing is guaranteed to last. Here today, gone tomorrow.
Yahoo
14-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Lena Dunham Series ‘Too Much' Gets Release Date, First Look at Netflix
Lena Dunham is making her return to television. Netflix has revealed a first look and release date for Dunham's new series 'Too Much.' Starring Meg Stalter, Will Sharpe, Michael Zegan, Janicza Bravo, Richard E. Grant, Rita Wilson, Naomi Watts, Andrew Rannells, Rhea Perlman, Emily Ratajkowski and Adwoa Aboah, the series will debut globally on Netflix July 10. More from Variety Tom Segura's Mom Roasts His Netflix Comedy 'Bad Thoughts': 'It's an Insult to Humanity' (EXCLUSIVE) Lovie Simone Isn't Done With 'Forever': 'I Don't Think This Is the End' 'Black Mirror: Bandersnatch' Is Getting Pulled by Netflix The official synopsis for 'Too Much' reads: 'Jessica (Stalter) is a New York workaholic in her mid-thirties, reeling from a broken relationship that she thought would last forever and slowly isolating everyone she knows. When every block in New York tells a story of her own bad behaviour, the only solution is to take a job in London, where she plans to live a life of solitude like a Bronte sister.' 'But when she meets Felix (Will Sharpe) – a walking series of red flags – she finds that their unusual connection is impossible to ignore, even as it creates more problems than it solves. Now they have to ask themselves: do Americans and Brits actually speak the same language? From the creator of Girls and the producers of Love Actually, Too Much is an ex-pat rom-com for the disillusioned who wonder if true love is still possible, but sincerely hope that it is.' Created by Dunham and Luis Felber, 'Too Much' is written, directed, and executive produced by Dunham, with Tim Bevan, Eric Fellner, Michael P. Cohen, Surian Fletcher-Jones and Bruce Eric Kaplan serving as additional executive producers. 'Too Much' is produced by Working Title Television and Good Thing Going Productions and Universal International Studios. Best of Variety New Movies Out Now in Theaters: What to See This Week Emmy Predictions: Talk/Scripted Variety Series - The Variety Categories Are Still a Mess; Netflix, Dropout, and 'Hot Ones' Stir Up Buzz Oscars Predictions 2026: 'Sinners' Becomes Early Contender Ahead of Cannes Film Festival
Metro
12-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Metro
Netflix fans rush to save 'groundbreaking' TV episode as 5,000 sign petition
Thousands of Netflix fans are in uproar after the streamer removed live-action interactive movie, Black Mirror: Bandersnatch. The 2018 movie was a landmark moment for the streaming giant in the realm of interactive storytelling through the lens of Charlie Brooker's hit sci-fi dystopia. The episode follows a programmer named Stefan (Fionn Whitehead) who is developing a Goosebumps-style choose-your-own adventure game for a tech company run by video game genius Colin Ritman (portrayed by Will Poulter). But his attempts to create a bestselling interactive game turn meta when the viewer is put in control of how Stefan's story will pan out, with potentially deadly consequences. However, it has now been removed from Netflix globally, alongside other interactive specials, including Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt: Kimmy vs. the Reverend. Wake up to find news on your TV shows in your inbox every morning with Metro's TV Newsletter. Sign up to our newsletter and then select your show in the link we'll send you so we can get TV news tailored to you. According to Variety, the move marks Netflix's creative decision to pursue interactive storytelling as it leans into beefing up its gaming content instead. But, at the time of writing, more than 5,000 people have signed a petition on calling on the streaming platform to reverse its Bandersnatch decision to 'preserve this cultural and interactive landmark.' 'This isn't just the removal of a film. It's the deletion of a groundbreaking moment in storytelling and innovation—a format-defining experience that cannot be replicated once it's gone,' it said. Bandersnatch's unique concept seemed to divide viewers at the time, ultimately landing a shaky but comfortable 67% on Rotten Tomatoes from audience reviews. Some have praised it for its 'unique twists' with user Louis P calling it 'brilliant and forward thinking'. To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video Daniel W agreed the feature-length episode was 'ambitious, trailblazing, and well-executed at times'. On the other hand, some reviews like one from Donald D described it as 'frustrating and unfulfilling' with a story that 'dragged out'. And the divisive legacy of the innovative episode was reflected in critic reviews as well, with GQ calling it 'actually quite underwhelming as a standalone story' where it landed in 25th place. Meanwhile, Vulture echoed issues with the storyline but ultimately placed it at 14th place for its 'ambitious effort'. Metro TV reporter Asyia Iftikhar reviewed the latest season of Black Mirror and ranked all six episodes from best to worst: USS Callister: Into Infinity Plaything Common People Bête Noir Hotel Reverie Eulogy Read Asiya's review in full. But for many, it remains one of the creepiest episodes they've watched. 'I can't begin to explain how unsettling yet amazing this was I have never had goosebumps but been so creeped out at the same time,' Rachel Damelio wrote on Google reviews. One user, Johann D. M, called it a 'very interesting, creepy and clever idea'. 'I just played/watched black mirror Bandersnatch and my mind is not the same AT ALL, that was so creepy,' bubbleswho shared on X. 'Black Mirror: Bandersnatch. Probably the creepiest!!' Grasya echoed. But whether you side with viewers praising the trailblazing episode or those who think it fell flat, it's now no longer available on Netflix. This move is even more shocking considering season seven of the show, which came out in April, features a follow-up with Colin Ritman, who is behind yet another video game that has destructive consequences in Plaything. Although his feature in the episode does not rely on having watched the interactive movie, his and co-star Asim Chaudhry's cameos in the episode are heightened for anyone who has seen it and knows these characters already. Discussing his decision to bring back Will's character, creator Charlie told Metro: 'Plaything isn't really a sequel to Bandersnatch. More Trending 'While I was writing it, it was a separately conceived story. I just got to the point of, 'oh, well, now we're going to go and meet the creator of this game'. 'One of my favourite characters ever in the series was Colin Ritman. What if it could be him? And could we get Asim [Chaudhry] as well to play Mo, the owner of Tuckersoft? Could we do that? 'But I guess we could. Why not? Who decides these rules? It's not like the government is going to step in and shut us down. So that was why.' View More » A version of this article was published on May 8. Got a story? If you've got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@ calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we'd love to hear from you. MORE: Netflix viewers rush to watch 'exceptional' drama based on Judy Blume novel MORE: Netflix's latest 'charming' film with 'giant heart' is your ultimate weekend watch MORE: Brutal horror film with 'diabolical gore' finally arrives on Netflix
Scotsman
12-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Scotsman
Black Mirror: Bandersnatch has been pulled from Netflix
Watch more of our videos on and on Freeview 262 or Freely 565 Visit Shots! now Black Mirror fans can no longer watch the interactive special Bandersnatch on Netflix 😱 Sign up to our daily newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to Edinburgh News, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... Black Mirror's interactive 2018 special Bandersnatch has been removed from Netflix. The streaming giant has pulled the episode as of today (May 12). But can you still watch it anywhere else? Black Mirror's innovative 'choose-your-own-adventure' episode has been removed from Netflix. The 2018 special called Bandersnatch can no-longer be found on the streaming service. It comes just a month after the iconic anthology show released its seventh series. You can read my thoughts on all of the episodes - including the USS Callister sequel. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad However Netflix subscribers will no longer be able to watch Bandersnatch as of today (May 12). Here's all you need to know: Why has Black Mirror: Bandersnatch been removed from Netflix? Will Poulter returns as game coder Colin in the new series of Black Mirror. | Nick Wall/Netflix During the 2010s in a bid to expand its offerings beyond simply watching movies and TV shows, Netflix started to produce a series of interactive specials. It included Bandersnatch but also ones for shows like Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt. However, in the years after those specials originally released, Netflix has started to dip its toes more into the world of video games. It now includes a range of titles - from tie-in games based on its hit shows, to familiar titles like Grand Theft Auto. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad The streaming service removed a number of interactive specials back in late 2024, but has since also removed Black Mirror: Bandersnatch as of today (May 12) and also Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt: Kimmy vs. the Reverend. Another of the interactive specials You vs Wild with Bear Grylls has been converted into a non-interactive version earlier this year - with a new release date of 2025. It may be that other interactive specials return in this manner as well. Explaining the reasoning for removing Bandersnatch and the others, Netflix spokesperson Chrissy Kelleher told The Verge : 'The technology served its purpose, but is now limiting as we focus on technological efforts in other areas.' Can you still watch Black Mirror: Bandersnatch? It has been removed from Netflix today (May 12) and no longer turns up if you search it on the streaming platform. Bandersnatch did seemingly get a physical release at one point as part of a 4 disc Blu-Ray collection of the first 5 seasons - however it is sold out on and is not listed on Amazon. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad If you had not got round to watching Black Mirror: Bandersnatch before now, unfortunately you are out of luck. At least for now. Have you got a story you want to share with our readers? You can now send it to us online via YourWorld at . It's free to use and, once checked, your story will appear on our website and, space allowing, in our newspapers.
Scotsman
12-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Scotsman
Black Mirror: Bandersnatch has been pulled from Netflix
Black Mirror fans can no longer watch the interactive special Bandersnatch on Netflix 😱 Sign up to our Arts and Culture newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... Black Mirror's interactive 2018 special Bandersnatch has been removed from Netflix. The streaming giant has pulled the episode as of today (May 12). But can you still watch it anywhere else? Black Mirror's innovative 'choose-your-own-adventure' episode has been removed from Netflix. The 2018 special called Bandersnatch can no-longer be found on the streaming service. It comes just a month after the iconic anthology show released its seventh series. You can read my thoughts on all of the episodes - including the USS Callister sequel. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad However Netflix subscribers will no longer be able to watch Bandersnatch as of today (May 12). Here's all you need to know: Why has Black Mirror: Bandersnatch been removed from Netflix? Will Poulter returns as game coder Colin in the new series of Black Mirror. | Nick Wall/Netflix During the 2010s in a bid to expand its offerings beyond simply watching movies and TV shows, Netflix started to produce a series of interactive specials. It included Bandersnatch but also ones for shows like Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt. However, in the years after those specials originally released, Netflix has started to dip its toes more into the world of video games. It now includes a range of titles - from tie-in games based on its hit shows, to familiar titles like Grand Theft Auto. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad The streaming service removed a number of interactive specials back in late 2024, but has since also removed Black Mirror: Bandersnatch as of today (May 12) and also Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt: Kimmy vs. the Reverend. Another of the interactive specials You vs Wild with Bear Grylls has been converted into a non-interactive version earlier this year - with a new release date of 2025. It may be that other interactive specials return in this manner as well. Explaining the reasoning for removing Bandersnatch and the others, Netflix spokesperson Chrissy Kelleher told The Verge : 'The technology served its purpose, but is now limiting as we focus on technological efforts in other areas.' Can you still watch Black Mirror: Bandersnatch? It has been removed from Netflix today (May 12) and no longer turns up if you search it on the streaming platform. Bandersnatch did seemingly get a physical release at one point as part of a 4 disc Blu-Ray collection of the first 5 seasons - however it is sold out on and is not listed on Amazon. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad If you had not got round to watching Black Mirror: Bandersnatch before now, unfortunately you are out of luck. At least for now.
