| "Metalhead" | |
|---|---|
| Black Mirror episode | |
&sq=&lang=&file=File:Black_Mirror_S04E05_-_Metalhead.png) Promotional poster | |
| Episode no. | Series 4 Episode 5 |
| Directed by | David Slade |
| Written by | Charlie Brooker |
| Original release date | 29 December 2017 |
| Running time | 41 minutes |
| Guest appearances | |
| |
"Metalhead" is the fifth episode of the fourth series of the anthology series Black Mirror. It was written by series creator Charlie Brooker and directed by David Slade. The episode first aired on Netflix, along with the rest of series four, on 29 December 2017.
"Metalhead" is filmed in black and white, and it follows the plight of Bella (Maxine Peake) trying to flee from robotic "dogs" after the unexplained collapse of human society. The dogs were influenced by Boston Dynamics' robots such as BigDog. Filming took place in England, with Lidar scans used for scenes from the dog's perspective. Lasting 41 minutes, "Metalhead" is the second-shortest episode behind "Mazey Day".
Reviews were mostly positive. It has been compared to The Terminator, as both works feature machines chasing humans. The episode's message has been widely debated, with reviewers discussing questions about artificial intelligence and the final shot of a box of teddy bears. The plot and short running time have received mixed reviews, while Peake's acting and Slade's directing have been praised, along with the cinematography and the design of the dogs.