It’s the hype of the moment, but is Adolescence actually worth it? Absolutely. The fantastic script. The unique cinematography. The incredible performances. It’s worth it all. A true gem, and with its societal message, a must-see for everyone.
One early morning, 13-year-old Jamie is pulled out of bed by the police. He is accused of murdering a girl from his class. With undeniable evidence against him. This is not your typical whodunit, but a whydunit.
Jamie insists he is innocent and is thrown into a whirlwind of interrogations and psychological evaluations. And he’s not the only one affected. Different episodes show the impact on his school, friends, parents, and sister.
Nature vs nurture
But why did Jamie do this? That’s the central question—one that will shock many viewers. Adolescence powerfully portrays how social media can push us into an algorithm-driven mindset. A fictional story, but based on real-life events. A reality check on the influence of social media on today’s youth—and how far it can go.
The age-old nature vs. nurture debate inevitably comes into play. Is anyone to blame for Jamie being who he is? Could his parents or environment have prevented this? Why are adults—including the police—so unaware of what’s happening among young people?
The series explores these questions from multiple angles over four episodes. Episode three makes one thing clear: this debate needs to be viewed more broadly. Upbringing (or nurture) is no longer just a parental responsibility. Social media also plays a major role in shaping young minds. In a conversation with a psychologist, Jamie reveals that three factors have shaped him and his thoughts into what they are now. And, as it turns out, that combination is—literally—deadly.
Adolescence introduces Owen Cooper
All four episodes are built around an outstandingly written script. But what truly elevates this series is the fact that all four hour-long episodes were shot in a single take. A feat that director Philip Barantini and his cinematographers have executed brilliantly. From a car ride to an interrogation, to a drone shot sweeping over the city—this took serious effort. The one-takes are not just visually stunning; they allow the story to unfold in real time. This pulls the audience in, making the emotional impact hit even harder. And yes, there is plenty of emotion—and you feel it.
Much of Adolescence’s strength lies in the performances. Creators and writers Jack Thorne and Stephen Graham (who also plays Jamie’s father, Eddie) have assembled the perfect cast. No big names—just raw, authentic talent, including a newcomer in the lead role. Owen Cooper proves himself as a remarkable actor in his debut. And what a debut it is. As the seemingly innocent Jamie, he both wins hearts and sends shockwaves. Especially in episode three, where he faces off against Erin Doherty, shifting from one emotion to another in a single take. The script is excellent—but he brings it to life.
Despite its modest budget, the impact of Adolescence is immense. A production doesn’t need a massive budget to succeed (unlike the simultaneously released The Electric State). Even with limited resources, a series can contribute to crucial societal debates. Adolescence is a must-see.
We don’t know what young people are absorbing through social media. We don’t know which ideas stick. We don’t know what they might be driven to do because of them.
A painful reality check. A warning. A series you simply can’t miss.
Adolescence (2025) – Netflix
When a 13-year-old is accused of the murder of a classmate, his family, therapist and the detective in charge are all left asking what really happened.
Cast: Owen Cooper, Stephen Graham, Christine Tremarco, Ashley Walters, Erin Doherty and others.
Creators: Jack Thorne & Stephen Graham
