Lost in space.
The much-loved “USS Callister” episode from Netflix’s “Black Mirror,” which aired in 2017, was initially intended to be part of a full series. Instead, it transformed into a sequel that was released last month as part of Season 7.
Cinematographer Stephan Pehrsson shared some insights on why a series based on this episode inspired by “Star Trek” never went forward.
“There were so many complications… a year after the first episode aired, I was chatting with director Toby Haynes and thought, ‘This is amazing! I want to be on board,'” Pehrsson, 49, recounted during an interview.
“Then, about a year later, Haynes mentioned, ‘Oh, they’re planning a four-part series,'” he continued. It was almost there, but eventually, things got shuffled around, and it became a long special instead.
Pehrsson expressed his enthusiasm for creating a series from “USS Callister,” but reuniting the cast proved to be quite challenging.
“Bringing the cast back was tough. Finding a suitable time for everyone was like searching for a needle in a haystack,” the Emmy nominee elaborated. “Initially, with the three-part series, we estimated needing about 12 weeks, and it was really difficult to coordinate such a tight schedule.”
“In the end, we managed just six weeks, and some actors came for only part of that time. I mean, everyone’s doing really well individually; they’re busy with other projects, which is understandable.”
“USS Callister” featured actors like Cristin Milioti, Jesse Plemons, Jimmi Simpson, Michaela Coel, Billy Magnussen, Milanka Brooks, and Osy Ikhile. Notably, Coel did not reprise her role in the sequel, “USS Callister: Into Infinity.”
“It was wonderful to reconnect,” Pehrsson said. “The atmosphere was fantastic. Toby and I were the only original team members behind the scenes, but coming together again felt really special.”
Pehrsson also acknowledged that while creating “USS Callister,” the team was heavily influenced by “Star Trek.”
“We were all big fans of ‘Star Trek.’ I also watched something called ‘Star Trek Continus,’ which was like a revisiting of the original series but with a new cast. I’d definitely like to explore that concept further.”
He added, “I envision starting with that ’60s vibe, capturing the essence of the original show with its characteristic lighting and style. We loved every minute of it; it was truly amazing.”
Reflecting on why “USS Callister” resonates with audiences, Pehrsson offered some thoughts.
“Typically, ‘Black Mirror’ episodes end on a pretty dark note,” he explained. “Creator Charlie Brooker has a knack for really putting viewers in tough situations. You just get the sense that the characters won’t come out on top, which leaves a lasting impact.”
He added, “Despite that somber tone, the absurdity often lifts the mood, and perhaps that’s why people were drawn to it. Maybe deep down, they wanted to experience those thrilling adventures again.”
Looking ahead for “USS Callister,” Pehrsson embraces the “Never Say Never” perspective.
“Initially, finishing the episode felt conclusive, as if we had wrapped everything up,” he noted. “But you can never fully close the door on these things. I’ve heard Charlie mention some intriguing possibilities about the future.”
“There’s definitely more potential to explore,” he added.
“Black Mirror” is available for streaming on Netflix.
