Netflix’s New Hit Show: Adolescence
Netflix has been enjoying success with its original shows, and its new series Adolescence looks set to continue that trend. The British crime drama is releasing on March 13, and it already holds a perfect 100% score from critics on Rotten Tomatoes. The limited series tells a gripping story that is sure to keep viewers hooked.
Plot Overview
The Adolescence’s story follows the Miller family, whose world is turned upside down when 13-year-old Jamie Miller is arrested for murdering a schoolmate, Katie. The charges force the family to confront every parent’s worst nightmare. The drama dives deep into the effects of this tragedy on the family, especially Jamie’s father, Eddie.
Creators and Cast
Adolescence is created by Jack Thorne, known for Toxic Town, another Netflix drama with a 100% score. The show also features Stephen Graham, an actor known for his roles in Boardwalk Empire, The Irishman, Boiling Point, and the Venom movies. The director, Philip Barantini, worked with Graham on Boiling Point in 2021.
Comparison to Classic Drama
The series reminds us of A Wanted Man, a trilogy from the late 80s by Malcolm McKay. The series, which starred Denis Quilley and Bill Paterson, is considered one of the best scripted and acted shows ever. Adolescence is being hailed as one of the closest contenders to this level of perfection, with its flawless technical execution and brilliant performances.
A Single-Take Approach
Each episode of Adolescence is filmed in a single take, adding to its intensity and emotional depth. The performances are outstanding, and the script combines natural dialogue with deeply moving moments, making the series a harrowing watch.
The Story Unfolds
The series begins with the police bursting into Jamie Miller’s home and arresting him for the murder of his classmate, Katie. The first two episodes focus on the police station, where detectives build the case against Jamie, despite his denial of involvement.
Also read: Tamra Judge Quits RHOC! Shocking Exit After 14 Seasons – What’s the Real Reason Behind Her Decision?
Eddie’s Emotional Journey
Jamie’s father, Eddie (played by Stephen Graham), is chosen to be his son’s “appropriate adult.” We watch as Eddie’s disbelief turns into unimaginable grief over the 13-month story arc. While it’s clear that Jamie killed Katie, the drama focuses on why he did it, offering no easy answers.
Exploring Teenage Online Worlds
The series takes viewers into the world of teenagers living mostly online, a world that many adults find difficult to understand. Detective Luke Bascombe (Ashley Walters) begins to understand the “why” behind Jamie’s actions when his son translates the emojis used in some of Jamie’s Instagram comments. The show explores the dangers of “incel” culture and how it affects young boys’ perceptions of women.
A Powerful Performance
One of the most impactful episodes is the penultimate one, where Jamie undergoes a session with a child psychologist, Briony (played by Erin Doherty). This scene highlights 15-year-old Owen Cooper’s incredible performance as Jamie. It is his first-ever acting role, and his portrayal of a radicalized, misogynistic teenager is stunning.
Final Episode: A Brave Approach
While the final episode might feel slightly weaker than the rest, it is still powerful. The series refuses to offer easy answers or explanations for why Jamie committed murder. There are no abusive parents or dark family secrets; instead, the show challenges viewers to think about how boys are raised in a toxic, increasingly difficult world.
A Bold and Thought-Provoking Series
Adolescence is a bold and emotional series that tackles important issues surrounding masculinity, toxic culture, and how young boys are taught to navigate their world. The show leaves a lasting impression by keeping the victim’s presence strong and reminding us of the many women and girls who suffer while society struggles to find answers.
More read: Oscars 2025 Shocker: Sean Baker’s Historic Sweep and the Upset That Left Demi Moore Speechless.
