Netflix's new four-part drama, "Adolescence," created by Stephen Graham and Jack Thorne, presents a heart-wrenching story surrounding the arrest of 13-year-old Jamie Miller (Owen Cooper) for the murder of his classmate, Katie. The series employs a groundbreaking one-shot format, offering viewers a real-time experience as it powerfully explores the themes of toxic masculinity and the societal influences affecting today's youth.
The series kicks off dramatically at 6 AM on a seemingly calm morning, when armed police raid Jamie’s family home, brutally bringing his innocence to the forefront as he is arrested for murder. The show captures the panic and confusion experienced by Jamie’s parents, Eddie (Stephen Graham), and Manda (Christine Tremarco), as they grapple with the reality of the situation. Jamie’s immediate protest of innocence sets the stage for the emotionally charged narrative to follow.
Throughout the four episodes, each filmed entirely as one continuous take, we experience the intense emotional rollercoaster alongside the Miller family. The first episode focuses on the police station where Jamie is questioned, and viewers are left to feel the weight of the impending tragedy as the evidence starts to pile against him, leaving the audience to navigate the tension as if they were alongside them.
Subsequent episodes transport us through harrowing moments at Jamie's school where detectives DI Bascombe (Ashley Walters) and DS Frank (Faye Marsay) strive to piece together the events leading up to the murder. This method of storytelling not only amplifies the drama but cleverly intertwines the urgency of the investigation with the suffocative pressures facing young men today, leaving no room for spectators to detach from the turmoil at hand.
By the time we reach the third episode, attention shifts dramatically as Jamie meets with psychologist Briony Ariston (Erin Doherty). This episode is largely crafted as a two-hander, forcing Jamie to confront his identity, his fears, and the social narratives he has been subjected to. This deep interrogation provides insights not only for Jamie but raises unsettling questions about the influences boys encounter through modern-day media.
The finale reflects the Miller family’s desperate attempts at holding themselves together as they deal with the ramifications of Jamie’s alleged crime. They struggle against the backdrop of societal stigma and personal blame, exemplified by Eddie’s reflections on their parenting choices, questions surrounding Jamie’s online activities, and the environment he navigates daily.
"Adolescence" does not shy away from uncomfortable subject matter, exploring the impact of toxic masculinity and societal influences shaping boys today. Graham and Thorne have intentionally woven discussions of incel and manosphere cultures throughout the episodes. It has sparked meaningful conversations about the pressures young men face from their peers and the harmful perspectives proliferated online.
A standout moment occurs when DI Bascombe’s teenage son highlights the emojis from the victim, Katie’s social media comments. This pivotal moment opens as viewers begin to grasp the morose undercurrents of masculinity and violence implicit within young men’s current social interactions. Andrew Tate's name is mentioned, representing the pervasive and toxic ideology young boys are often exposed to.
The series challenges viewers, inviting them to reflect on their roles and responsibilities as parents, educators, and members of society. "What is happening to our young men these days?" is the central question posed by Graham, providing no easy answers but urging dialogue surrounding the urgency of these issues. Adolescence holds up a mirror to society, reflecting our failures just as poignantly as our strengths.
Owen Cooper delivers a remarkable performance as Jamie, marking his debut alongside seasoned actors Graham and Tremarco, whose dynamic portrayals of parental grief create unbearable tension. The entire cast showcases their talent relentlessly, as the one-take format demands unyielding focus and flawless execution of their performances.
The brilliance of "Adolescence" lies not just within its technical achievements but also within its ability to fuse storytelling with rich commentary on youth and societal structures, making it among the standout offerings on Netflix. Each episode feels less like mere dramatic entertainment and more like an urgent societal warning, demanding attention from all segments of the audience.
Not surprisingly, "Adolescence" emerges as one of the most important series of the year, intertwining discussions of real-life tragedies, societal pressures, and the quest for answers. It serves as both a reflective piece for adults and potentially transformative media for young boys. The power of this narrative may very well resonate beyond the screen, encouraging cautionary conversations aimed at protecting children from the toxic influences lurking around them.
Stream "Adolescence" on Netflix now, where emotional turmoil, masterful direction, and stellar performances converge to craft what might just be one of the most impactful television dramas of our time.