Unpacking the Twisted Ending of 'Black Mirror' USS Callister: Stars Weigh In

The Black Mirror universe has always been known for its dark, twisted, and thought-provoking storylines, and the episode "USS Callister" is no exception. The episode, which premiered in 2017, tells the story of a group of co-workers who are trapped in a simulated reality created by their obsessive and controlling boss, Robert Daly. The episode's ending left many viewers with more questions than answers, and now, the stars of the show are weighing in on the meaning behind the finale.

In a recent interview, the cast of "USS Callister" sat down to discuss the ending of the episode and what it means for the characters. According to Jesse Plemons, who plays the role of Robert Daly, the ending is intentionally ambiguous, leaving viewers to draw their own conclusions. "The ending is meant to be a bit of a puzzle," Plemons explained. "We wanted to leave the audience with a sense of uncertainty, to make them question what's real and what's not."

The Twist Ending Explained

For those who may need a refresher, the ending of "USS Callister" shows the main character, Nanette Cole, played by Cristin Milioti, escaping the simulated reality and finding herself back in the real world. However, as she's walking away from the building where the simulation was taking place, she's seen looking up at the sky, where a spaceship is flying overhead. The implication is that Nanette may still be trapped in a simulation, and that the world she thinks is real may actually be another level of the game.

According to Milioti, this twist ending was intentional, and is meant to leave viewers questioning the nature of reality. "We wanted to create a sense of unease and uncertainty," she said. "The idea is that Nanette thinks she's escaped, but she may actually still be trapped. It's a commentary on the way we experience reality, and how we can never really be sure what's real and what's not."

Themes and Symbolism

The episode "USS Callister" explores several themes, including the dangers of toxic masculinity, the consequences of playing God, and the blurring of lines between reality and fantasy. The use of a simulated reality as a plot device allows the show to comment on the ways in which technology can be used to control and manipulate others.

According to the show's creators, the episode is also meant to be a commentary on the gaming industry and the ways in which it can be used to escape reality. "The idea of a simulated reality is a commentary on the way we use technology to escape our problems," said Charlie Brooker, the show's creator. "It's a warning about the dangers of becoming too immersed in a virtual world, and losing touch with reality."

The ending of "USS Callister" is a complex and thought-provoking commentary on the nature of reality and the dangers of technology. According to the stars of the show, the twist ending is meant to be intentionally ambiguous, leaving viewers to draw their own conclusions. Whether or not Nanette is still trapped in a simulation, the episode raises important questions about the ways in which we experience reality, and the consequences of playing God with technology.

As the Black Mirror universe continues to explore the darker side of technology and human nature, fans can expect more thought-provoking and unsettling storylines in the future. With its talented cast and crew, the show is sure to continue to push the boundaries of what's possible in the world of science fiction, and to leave viewers on the edge of their seats, wondering what's real and what's not.