A Level Media - Black Mirror: San Junipero - Representation

Summary

This video provides an insightful analysis of representation in the Black Mirror episode 'San Junipero,' focusing on the main characters, Yorkie and Kelly. It examines how Yorkie is portrayed as a lonely, isolated figure, contrasting with Kelly's confident and social personality. The video explores themes of love, identity, and sexuality, particularly through the lens of LGBTQ+ representation. The evolving relationship between Yorkie and Kelly is presented in a romantic, non-sexualized way, challenging typical media portrayals. Additionally, the video discusses the generational and futuristic contrasts in the episode, highlighting its relevance to modern and diverse audiences.

Takeaways

• 😀 Yorkie is depicted as a loner with a geek archetype, highlighted through her clothing, glasses, and drink choice, representing immaturity and discomfort in social settings.
• 😀 The episode critiques men harassing women, as seen through Wes's persistent behavior toward Kelly, reflecting societal issues of consent and boundaries.
• 😀 Women in the episode are portrayed with diverse and modern representations, being strong, independent, emotional, and even angry—challenging conventional gender norms.
• 😀 Kelly's character is confident, desirable, and social, shown through her clothing, drink choices, and assertive dialogue, presenting her as a contrast to Yorkie.
• 😀 The use of shot reverse shots and framing emphasizes the differences between Kelly and Yorkie, highlighting their contrasting personalities and character arcs.
• 😀 The episode incorporates a groundbreaking LGBTQ narrative, representing a female lesbian relationship in a non-sexualized, romantic, and tender way.
• 😀 Bisexuality is emphasized through the use of the bisexual flag’s colors (pink, blue, purple) in the visual design, promoting the theme of sexuality in the show.
• 😀 There is a reflection of societal discomfort and discrimination surrounding LGBTQ+ relationships, as Yorkie struggles with her sexuality while Kelly is more confident.
• 😀 The representation of a mixed-race couple and diverse ethnicity in the episode aligns with its modern setting, appealing to a contemporary audience.
• 😀 The contrast between youthful vitality and older, infirm versions of the characters highlights the passage of time and its impact on relationships and attitudes toward life.
• 😀 The blend of realistic settings with futuristic elements, such as advanced technology and sci-fi iconography, creates a believable alternative reality, positioning the audience in the episode's world.

Q & A

How is the character Yorkie represented in terms of her social isolation?

Yorkie is depicted as a loner and isolated throughout the episode. Wide shots and loosely framed scenes emphasize her solitude, and she doesn't interact with others, even in social settings like the club.

What visual cues are used to signify Yorkie's character as a 'geek' archetype?

Yorkie’s glasses, plain outfit, and preference for drinking Coke rather than alcohol help to establish her as a 'geek' archetype. These cues make her appear more immature and out of place in social situations.

How does Yorkie’s character evolve in terms of self-acceptance throughout the episode?

Yorkie tries different looks throughout the episode but ultimately returns to her original look, which represents her true self. This reflects her journey towards self-acceptance and honesty.

How does the character Wes represent societal issues related to harassment?

Wes embodies the issue of men pestering women, particularly in social settings. His behavior towards Kelly reflects societal concerns about men not accepting 'no' for an answer and women being subjected to harassment.

What makes the representation of women in this episode stand out?

The episode presents women as strong, independent, and complex. While they are emotional and caring, they are also angry, independent, and mentally strong, which challenges traditional representations of women in media.

How does Kelly's character differ from Yorkie in terms of social interaction and confidence?

Kelly is portrayed as social, confident, and desirable, often enjoying group shots and socializing. She contrasts with Yorkie, who is more reserved and out of place. Kelly is also portrayed as confident in her sexuality and emotions, which challenges conventional views of women and relationships.

How does the episode portray LGBTQ+ relationships, and how does it differ from traditional media representations?

The episode features a female-female, LGBTQ+ relationship that is loving and romantic rather than sexualized. It avoids the typical promiscuity associated with bisexual characters in media and instead focuses on the sweet, soft nature of their relationship.

What role does bisexuality play in the visual design of the episode?

The use of pink, blue, and purple hues throughout the episode reflects the bisexual flag and reinforces the theme of sexuality. This visual design subtly emphasizes the bisexuality of the characters, highlighting the romantic and tender aspects of their relationship.

How are issues of discrimination and societal discomfort with LGBTQ+ relationships addressed in the episode?

Yorkie’s discomfort with her sexuality, such as her feeling judged and being unsure about her relationship, reflects the challenges many people face in coming out. The episode suggests that discrimination and societal discomfort with LGBTQ+ relationships still persist.

How does the representation of aging in the episode contrast with the youthful representations of the characters?

The contrast between the youthful, energetic portrayal of the characters and their older versions highlights the binary opposition between youth and aging. The older characters are shown as dependent on healthcare, with scenes filled with dull colors, which contrasts sharply with their earlier, more vibrant selves.