The year 2025 has already been a prolific one for television, with some remarkable series capturing viewer attention and critical acclaim. Leading the charge is Netflix's "Adolescence," a gripping drama centered on the devastating impact of crime within a family. Streaming platforms have rolled out a range of shows, from dark comedies to poignant narratives, providing something for everyone looking to indulge in quality television.
"Adolescence" has emerged as a significant talking point not only for its storyline but also for its innovative production techniques. The four-part series premiered on March 13, 2025, showcasing the Miller family as they grapple with the fallout from their 13-year-old son Jamie's (played by Owen Cooper) shocking arrest for the murder of a classmate. This series has avoided the standard "whodunnit" trope and delves deep into the societal influences that could lead to such a tragedy, emphasizing the emotional toll on the family and community alike.
Produced by Stephen Graham and Jack Thorne, "Adolescence" has received rave reviews, boasting a stellar 98 percent score on Rotten Tomatoes and an 8.4-star rating on IMDb. Recently, during an interview, Cooper shared an amusing yet "disgusting" detail from filming a pivotal scene in the show's third episode. In this scene, Jamie shares a moment with psychologist Briony Ariston, portrayed by Erin Doherty, who pours him a cup of hot chocolate. Cooper described the drink as "minging" and "horrible" due to issues with the filming conditions: real hot chocolate made the set sticky, leading to messy situations for the crew trying to capture the perfect shot. "Oh, it was disgusting," he recalled, bringing a light-hearted touch to an otherwise heavy narrative.
Another standout offering in 2025 is "Toxic Town," also available on Netflix. This series tells the harrowing true story of women in Corby, Northamptonshire, who experienced the birth of children with severe deformities and health issues, allegedly linked to environmental contamination. The compelling narrative follows these women as they uncover a local government's negligence related to a steel mill's operation and a housing development. Jodie Whittaker and Aimee Lou Wood deliver powerful performances, capturing the frustrations and determination of the affected mothers as they seek justice.
On Apple TV+, the anticipated return of "Severance" has viewers engrossed after nearly a three-year hiatus. The show revolves around employees at Lumon Industries who undergo a radical procedure separating their workplace memories from their personal lives. Star Adam Scott's portrayal of Mark Scout in this compelling narrative has resonated well with audiences, offering a fusion of suspense, humor, and existential reflection.
Channel 4's "Big Boys" has quietly garnered a dedicated audience since its debut. The series follows Jack (Dylan Llewellyn) and Danny (Jon Pointing) as they navigate the complexities of grief, trauma, and mental health issues after the loss of Jack's father. Viewers have praised the show's relatable storytelling and emotional depth, with its recent finale leaving a lasting impression.
As viewers explore these compelling narratives, they'll find themselves pulled into the world of "The White Lotus" as well. Now in its third season, the dark comedy anthology continues to shine a light on human frailties through the experiences of its characters at a luxurious Thailand resort. With each guest carrying their own baggage, the satirical questioning of social norms remains engaging and thought-provoking.
Meanwhile, the Netflix hit "Apple Cider Vinegar" draws attention to the disturbing story of an influencer who faked cancer for personal gain, spotlighting the perils of social media fame. The Sky series "Lockerbie: A Search for Truth" examines the efforts of Dr. Jim Swire to gain insight into the tragic Pan Am Flight 103 disaster, while Marvel's "Daredevil: Born Again" has received positive feedback for its engaging storyline.
In the realm of lighter entertainment, the fan-favorite series "Cobra Kai" concluded its run with a finale that delighted both fans and critics alike, demonstrating the strong bond between audiences and long-established characters. Meanwhile, Disney+'s "A Thousand Blows" has also attracted a large following, marking a successful entry in 2025's offerings.
2025 has certainly delivered a diverse array of television programming catering to various tastes, showcasing the power of storytelling in its many forms. As the year progresses, viewers can look forward to more captivating content that resonates emotionally while bringing new experiences to the screen.
