The National Anthem (film)

The National Anthem is a 2011 short film directed by Angus MacQueen and written by Jesse Armstrong, which formed part of the anthology series Black Mirror created by Charlie Brooker. It is the first episode of the first series of the show and premiered on Channel 4 in the United Kingdom on December 4, 2011.

The film revolves around Prime Minister Michael Callow (played by Rory Kinnear) who is faced with a bizarre and horrifying ultimatum: to engage in sexual activity with a pig live on national television. This demand comes from an unknown group who have kidnapped Princess Susannah, a member of the British Royal Family. The episode explores themes of media manipulation, public morality, political power, and the disturbing intersection of technology and societal expectations.

The National Anthem is known for its shocking premise and its ability to spark debate about the state of modern media and the lengths to which individuals, and especially those in positions of power, might go to avoid public scandal and perceived national crisis. The episode garnered significant attention upon its release and remains one of the most discussed and debated episodes of Black Mirror.