Beyond Binge-Watching – A TV Show That’s Shaking Society
Netflix‘s new four-part drama “Adolescence” has taken the world by storm, earning rave reviews from critics and viewers alike. But this isn’t just another binge-worthy series; it’s a hard-hitting exploration of the corrosive impact of social media, male rage, and misogynistic influences on young people, prompting crucial conversations among parents, educators, and policymakers.
Episode 3 was the first episode to be filmed, and #Adolescence was also Owen Cooper's first acting job – which means this episode was the first time he'd ever been on a set. 🤯 pic.twitter.com/ZquN6QEd5J
— Netflix UK & Ireland (@NetflixUK) March 18, 2025
The Acclaim: Critics and Viewers United in Praise
1. “Complete Perfection”:
The Times’ Tom Peck hailed “Adolescence” as “complete perfection,” a sentiment echoed by many critics who lauded its compelling storytelling, stunning cinematography, and powerful performances.
2. “TV Perfection in Decades”:
The Guardian’s Lucy Mangan described the series as “the closest thing to TV perfection in decades,” praising its naturalistic script and award-worthy performances.
3. A Director’s Endorsement:
US director Paul Feig called the first episode “one of the best hours of television I’ve ever seen,” highlighting its immersive quality and thought-provoking themes.
The Story: Unraveling the Motives Behind a Shocking Crime
1. The Crime:
“Adolescence” centers around the stabbing of a teenage girl and the subsequent arrest of a 13-year-old boy from her school, Jamie Miller (played by Owen Cooper), for her murder.
2. Exploring the “Why”:
The series delves into the motives behind the crime, shining a light on the pressures faced by young men from their peers, the internet, and social media.
3. The Parents’ Struggle:
Jamie’s parents struggle to come to terms with their son’s actions and grapple with the revelations about his life as the case unravels.
The Themes: Male Rage, Misogyny, and the Digital World
1. “In the Eye of Male Rage”:
Writer Jack Thorne said the series aimed to “look in the eye of male rage,” exploring the forces that can drive young men to violence.
2. “Indoctrinated by Voices”:
The central character is portrayed as having been “indoctrinated by voices” like Andrew Tate’s and “voices a lot more dangerous than Andrew Tate’s,” highlighting the influence of online personalities on vulnerable youth.
3. Social Media’s Impact:
“Adolescence” shines a light on the corrosive impact of social media and misogynistic influencers on some teenage boys.
The Unique Approach: A Single-Shot Masterpiece
1. Immersive Storytelling:
Each episode was filmed in a single, uninterrupted take, creating a sense of immediacy and immersing viewers in the characters’ experiences.
2. Months of Preparation:
Director Philip Barantini explained that the one-shot approach required months of preparation, weeks of rehearsals, and an incredible team to pull off.
3. Heightened Emotional Impact:
The single-shot technique amplifies the emotional impact of the story, forcing viewers to confront the raw, unfiltered realities of the characters’ lives.
The Cast: Stellar Performances That Leave a Lasting Impression
1. Owen Cooper: A Breakout Star:
Critics have singled out Owen Cooper’s performance as Jamie Miller as “astonishing,” praising his ability to convey vulnerability, anger, bravado, and fear.
2. Stephen Graham: A Powerhouse Performance:
Stephen Graham, who co-created the series and stars as Jamie’s father, Eddie Miller, delivers another powerful performance, showcasing his range and depth as an actor.
3. Erin Doherty: A Voice of Reason:
Erin Doherty, who plays a child psychologist, provides a voice of reason and empathy, offering insights into the psychological factors that contribute to youth violence.
Concerns and Calls to Action: The Show’s Real-World Impact
1. A Wake-Up Call:
A Guernsey Police officer described “Adolescence” as a “wake-up call” to parents, carers, and professionals who work with children, urging them to be more involved in their online lives.
2. Starting Conversations:
Erin Doherty expressed hope that the show would allow parents, aunties, uncles, and friends to engage in conversations about difficult topics and hold themselves accountable for addressing these issues.
3. Digital Safety:
The series highlights the importance of digital safety and the need for parents to be aware of the content their children are consuming online.
A Must-Watch Drama That Demands Reflection
“Adolescence” is more than just a TV show; it’s a cultural phenomenon that has sparked a global conversation about the challenges facing young people today. With its gripping storyline, stellar performances, and thought-provoking themes, this series demands reflection and action. By shining a light on the dark corners of male rage, misogyny, and the digital world, “Adolescence” challenges us to confront these issues head-on and work towards creating a safer, more equitable world for our youth.
FAQ
What is “Adolescence” about?
The show explores the aftermath of a teenage girl’s stabbing and the motives behind the crime.
What are the main themes of the series?
Male rage, misogyny, the impact of social media, and the challenges faced by young people.
What is unique about the show’s approach?
Each episode was filmed in a single, uninterrupted take.
Who are the main actors in “Adolescence”?
Owen Cooper, Stephen Graham, Ashley Walters, and Erin Doherty.
What have critics said about the show?
Critics have praised its compelling storytelling, stunning cinematography, and powerful performances, with some calling it “complete perfection.”
What are some of the real-world concerns raised by the show?
The show highlights the importance of digital safety and the need for parents to be aware of the content their children are consuming online.
What is the message of the show?
The show is primarily exploring the different forces that can lead to youth violence, without necessarily providing definitive answers.
