Adolescence, Netflix's four-part limited series, has emerged as a groundbreaking work in the realm of psychological drama. Directed by Philip Barantini, the series has been met with widespread acclaim from both critics and filmmakers alike. The show’s defining feature is its experimental narrative technique: each of its four episodes unfolds in a single continuous shot. This ambitious format not only showcases Barantini's directorial prowess but also intensifies the emotional stakes, drawing viewers into the story in a deeply immersive way.
The series revolves around the psychological and emotional unraveling of 13-year-old Jamie Miller, played by Owen Cooper, who is arrested for the brutal murder of his classmate Katie. As the investigation into his crime unfolds, the show shifts from a simple murder mystery to a deeper exploration of the social, familial, and psychological forces that shape Jamie's actions. As the case progresses, the investigation reveals unsettling truths about Jamie's past, forcing his family, particularly his father Eddie Miller (played by Stephen Graham), to reckon with their own complicity in his actions. Meanwhile, the detectives working on the case delve into Jamie's psyche, trying to understand the underlying causes of such an extreme act of violence.
The central theme of Adolescence grapples with the societal pressures facing young men today, particularly in the age of social media and hyper-masculinity. Co-creator Graham explained that the show seeks to ask, “What’s happening to our young men these days, and what are the pressures they face from their peers, from the internet, and from social media?” The inspiration behind the series came from Graham’s shock over real-life incidents where young boys were involved in violent crimes, including stabbings. He noted that these tragedies seem to occur with increasing frequency, and he wanted to examine the factors contributing to such behavior, asking the question, “What’s going on? How have we come to this?”
Writer Jack Thorne, in an interview with the BBC, explained that Adolescence also sought to "look in the eye of male rage," exploring the latent anger and frustration that often fuels violent behavior. The psychological depth of the show’s characters is one of its strongest points, and Thorne’s writing allows the audience to see the devastating impact of unchecked rage on both the perpetrator and the people around them.
The performances in Adolescence have been widely praised, particularly Owen Cooper’s portrayal of Jamie, a complex and troubled young boy whose actions seem incomprehensible at first but are gradually revealed to be the result of multiple layers of trauma and societal pressures. Stephen Graham, known for his roles in This Is England and Line of Duty, delivers a masterful performance as Eddie Miller, a father desperate to understand his son’s motivations while grappling with his own guilt and helplessness. Alongside them, Ashley Walters plays Detective Inspector Luke Bascombe, the methodical investigator who becomes increasingly obsessed with understanding what led Jamie to commit such a violent act. Erin Doherty portrays Briony Ariston, the clinical psychologist assigned to assess Jamie’s mental state, and her nuanced performance adds another layer of complexity to the psychological drama.
What truly sets Adolescence apart, however, is its filming technique. Director Philip Barantini’s decision to shoot each episode in a single continuous take is an extraordinary achievement, one that elevates the entire series. Barantini explained that the process of shooting an episode in one long take was incredibly complicated and required months of preparation, rehearsals, and coordination. From scripting to location planning to camera positioning, every detail had to be meticulously mapped out in advance to ensure that the action unfolded seamlessly. This approach creates a visceral experience for viewers, heightening the tension and urgency of the investigation as they are pulled into the story without interruption.
The decision to use this one-shot format also serves a deeper narrative purpose: it immerses the audience in the real-time events of the investigation. There’s no room for a cutaway or pause, which means the stakes feel incredibly high and the emotional intensity is sustained throughout each episode. Viewers are forced to confront the characters’ emotions and decisions in real time, mirroring the characters’ own inability to escape their circumstances. It’s an innovative technique that sets Adolescence apart from other psychological dramas, making it a truly unique viewing experience.
Critical reception has been overwhelmingly positive, with The Times calling the series “perfect and stunning.” Adolescence has also garnered attention for its ability to transcend genre, with critics praising its exploration of complex human emotions, the intricacies of familial relationships, and the social issues surrounding youth violence. Indian filmmakers Hansal Mehta and Shekhar Kapur have expressed their admiration for the series, with Kapur calling it a “redefining” work of television. He wrote on social media that Adolescence "defies the regular three-act structure of cause and effect and plunges you deeply into the minds of the characters, allowing you to reflect upon yourself." This recognition from such seasoned filmmakers speaks volumes about the show's impact and its ability to provoke thoughtful discussions.
For Mehta, Adolescence was an emotional experience that left him “devastated” by its raw portrayal of the pressures on young people today. As a parent, he shared that the series made him feel “terrified, concerned, and introspective,” which shows just how effectively the series taps into universal fears about raising children in a world filled with so many challenges and dangers. Mehta also praised the creators, saying that the show “left me envious, nervous, and energized,” a sentiment that many viewers can likely relate to after experiencing the series for themselves.
The emotional depth of Adolescence also extends beyond the investigation, as the series thoughtfully examines the psychological effects of violence on everyone involved—the victim, the perpetrator, their families, and society at large. The show challenges the viewer to empathize with characters they might not normally understand, urging them to consider the complexities of each individual’s actions and motivations. It’s this nuanced storytelling that makes Adolescence stand out as not just a crime drama but a profound commentary on the modern condition.
Adolescence started streaming on Netflix last week, and all four episodes are now available to watch. Whether you're drawn to its cinematic style, its thought-provoking themes, or its compelling performances, the series has already made a significant impact on the television landscape. With its innovative approach and powerful storytelling, Adolescence is sure to remain a topic of conversation for some time to come.
