Netflix’s Adolescence: not just a must-watch—it is a cultural moment that demands reflection

Netflix’s limited series “Adolescence” is a bold and deeply moving exploration of the complex realities facing today’s youth, with a sharp focus on the dangers of online radicalization and its influence on adolescent behaviour. Directed by Philip Barantini, this four-part drama takes viewers on an intimate and tragic family journey, brought to life through exceptional performances and an innovative approach to storytelling.

At the heart of the narrative is 13-year-old Jamie Miller, portrayed with stunning authenticity by newcomer Owen Cooper. Accused of murdering his classmate Katie Leonard, Jamie becomes a chilling embodiment of how the internet's darker forces can entangle and manipulate vulnerable minds. Cooper’s debut is nothing short of extraordinary—he delivers a layered, emotionally charged performance that feels raw and real. Opposite him, Stephen Graham—who also co-created the series—plays Jamie’s father, Eddie Miller. Graham’s portrayal is deeply affecting, capturing the anguish of a parent confronting the unthinkable. One particular moment stands out: in the series’ final episode, his silent act of placing a teddy bear on his son’s bed is heartbreakingly tender, a frame that lingers long after the screen fades to black.

Barantini’s choice to film each episode in a single continuous shot is not just a technical feat—it’s a narrative device that immerses the viewer completely in the unfolding drama. The seamless execution of this method heightens the emotional intensity, making us feel like silent witnesses to the characters’ unravelling lives. It’s a testament to the director’s vision and the cast’s cohesion that these long takes feel effortless rather than performative.

I must commend the creators for their fearless engagement with challenging themes—particularly toxic masculinity, cyberbullying, and the unsettling rise of “incel culture.” For clarity, the term refers to a subculture of disenfranchised individuals, often young men, who identify as “involuntary celibates” and harbour deep-seated resentment—often manifesting as misogyny—toward women. The 2014 Isla Vista shootings by Elliot Rodger remain a disturbing example of this phenomenon. His manifesto, My Twisted World, outlined a worldview steeped in entitlement and hatred, sparking global awareness of the threats posed by such ideologies. “Adolescence” doesn't shy away from this darkness—instead, it confronts it head-on, offering viewers not just a drama, but a wake-up call.

“Adolescence” has already sparked essential conversations in the UK, with growing calls for the series to be used in educational settings to raise awareness about online radicalization. And rightly so.

In sum, “Adolescence” is a masterfully constructed work—gripping, thought-provoking, and profoundly moving. With standout performances from Owen Cooper and Stephen Graham, and a narrative that courageously delves into some of the most pressing issues of our time, it is not just a must-watch—it is a cultural moment that demands reflection.