“Adolescence” is a gripping British crime drama miniseries that premiered on Netflix on March 13, 2025. Created by actor Stephen Graham and writer Jack Thorne, the series delves into the harrowing journey of a 13-year-old boy, Jamie Miller, who is accused of murdering his classmate, Katie Leonard. The narrative unfolds through the perspectives of Jamie’s family, his therapist, and the detective investigating the case, each grappling with the unsettling question: what truly transpired?
Plot Overview
Set in an English town, “Adolescence” opens with a dramatic scene where police forcibly enter the Miller family’s home to arrest young Jamie on suspicion of murder. The series meticulously explores the ensuing chaos as Jamie’s family—his father Eddie, mother Manda, and sister Lisa—struggle to comprehend the gravity of the situation. Parallelly, Detective Inspector Luke Bascombe and forensic psychologist Briony Ariston delve into Jamie’s troubled past, uncovering the profound impact of online bullying and his immersion into the incel subculture.
Innovative Cinematography
One of the most striking features of “Adolescence” is its cinematographic approach. Each of the four episodes is filmed in a single continuous take, immersing viewers in real-time events and intensifying the emotional experience. This technique, though challenging, was executed through meticulous planning and rehearsals, with each episode shot approximately ten times to capture the desired intensity.
Stellar Performances
The series boasts a remarkable cast, with Owen Cooper, in his acting debut, portraying Jamie Miller with depth and authenticity. Stephen Graham delivers a compelling performance as Eddie Miller, capturing the turmoil of a father confronting his son’s alleged crime. Erin Doherty’s portrayal of Briony Ariston adds a nuanced layer, depicting a professional torn between her duty and empathy for her young patient. Ashley Walters and Faye Marsay further enrich the narrative with their roles as Detective Bascombe and DS Misha Frank, respectively.
Critical Reception
“Adolescence” has been met with widespread acclaim from both critics and audiences. On Rotten Tomatoes, the series holds a 99% approval rating based on 68 critics’ reviews, with an average rating of 9.2 out of 10. The consensus praises it as “a masterclass in televisual storytelling.” Lucy Mangan of The Guardian lauded the series as “the closest thing to TV perfection in decades,” highlighting the exceptional performances, particularly by Cooper and Doherty. Conversely, Anita Singh of The Daily Telegraph described it as “a devastating watch,” acknowledging the stellar acting while noting that the single-take filming might feel like “a gimmick” to some.
Cultural Impact
The series has sparked significant discussions regarding its portrayal of toxic masculinity and the influence of online communities on adolescents. In Ireland, the Tánaiste (Deputy Prime Minister) suggested that “Adolescence” should be “compulsory viewing” in schools, emphasizing its relevance in addressing the impact of misogynistic influencers on youth. Similarly, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer condemned the misogyny and violence against women depicted in the series, acknowledging it as a reflection of real societal issues.
Educational Discourse
Beyond its entertainment value, “Adolescence” serves as a catalyst for important conversations about the challenges facing modern youth. The series offers a poignant look into how online environments can shape perceptions and behaviors, particularly concerning gender dynamics and societal expectations. It provides educators, parents, and policymakers with a lens through which to examine and address the complexities of adolescent development in the digital age.
Conclusion
“Adolescence” stands as a testament to innovative storytelling and cinematic excellence. Its unflinching examination of contemporary issues, coupled with outstanding performances and groundbreaking cinematography, solidifies its position as one of the most impactful series of 2025. By intertwining personal narratives with broader societal themes, it not only captivates but also educates, prompting viewers to reflect on the intricate challenges facing today’s youth.
For a visual glimpse into the series, you can watch the official trailer below:
