The stories that leave us stunned, with our minds reeling and our emotions in turmoil, are the ones that truly resonate with us. The latest web series to have this profound impact on viewers is “Adolescence,” a psychological drama that has left everyone, including acclaimed Bollywood filmmaker Hansal Mehta, utterly speechless. Mehta has gone so far as to call it “devastating” and has recommended that it sweep all awards. This gripping four-part series delves into the complexities of murder, toxic masculinity, and the struggles of fractured families, all centered around a 13-year-old boy accused of killing his classmate.
For those unfamiliar, “Adolescence” refers to the stage of life between childhood and adulthood, typically spanning the ages of 10 to 19. During this period, individuals undergo significant physical, psychological, and social changes. The series, which premiered on Netflix on March 13, has been garnering praise not only for its thought-provoking narrative but also for its innovative storytelling approach. Each of the four episodes was shot in a single take, a feat that adds to the show’s compelling nature.
Where to Watch “Adolescence” on OTT
“Adolescence” is now available to stream on Netflix, courtesy of creators Jack Thorne and Stephen Graham. The series boasts an impressive cast, including Stephen Graham as Eddie Miller, Owen Cooper as 13-year-old Jamie Miller, Ashley Walters as DI Luke Bascomb, Erin Doherty as Brierton Aston, Faye Marsay as DS Misha Frank, Christine Tremarco as Mandy Miller, and Mark Stanley as Paul Barlow.
The Cast of “Adolescence”
The ensemble cast brings to life the intricate characters that make “Adolescence” so captivating. With their powerful performances, they navigate the complexities of the story, drawing viewers into the world of the show.
Hansal Mehta’s Praise for “Adolescence”
Hansal Mehta, known for his outstanding work on series like “Scam 1992,” took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his admiration for “Adolescence.” He wrote, “Netflix’s ‘Adolescence’ has left me devastated. So much so that I felt compelled to write this follow-up post, especially about the last two episodes. Episodes three and four left me utterly speechless.” Mehta further noted that the show transcends process, glimpses of mystery, and any specific genre, making it a truly unique viewing experience.
A Father’s Fear
Mehta confessed that as a father, watching “Adolescence” filled him with fear and anxiety. He was moved to the point where he wanted to hug his children and reassure them that everything would be okay. His reaction is a testament to the show’s ability to evoke strong emotions and spark important conversations.
The Story of “Adolescence”
At its core, “Adolescence” tells the story of a family whose world is turned upside down when their 13-year-old son, Jamie Miller, is arrested for the murder of his classmate. The series unfolds with police investigations, psychological insights, and twists that keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
Real-Life Inspirations
Although “Adolescence” is not based on a single true story, its creators drew inspiration from real-life events. Stephen Graham mentioned in an interview with Netflix’s Tudum that the idea stemmed from a series of incidents where young boys were involved in violent crimes against girls. These events prompted Graham to explore the reasons behind such actions and the societal factors that contribute to them.
The Origin of “Adolescence”
Graham shared that the concept of “Adolescence” emerged from his reflections on these disturbing incidents. He sought to shed light on the factors leading to such behaviors and to question how society has reached this point. By portraying the complexities of adolescence and the challenges faced by families, the series aims to spark a conversation about these critical issues.
Stephen Graham’s Role in “Adolescence”
Interestingly, Stephen Graham not only co-created the series but also played the role of Eddie Miller, Jamie’s father. Eddie finds himself caught between protecting his child and grappling with his own guilt and sorrow, adding a deeply personal layer to the story. This multifaceted approach to storytelling is part of what makes “Adolescence” so impactful, inviting viewers to reflect on their own experiences and emotions.
