Adolescence is one of those shows that hits you hard, leaves you thinking, and sticks with you long after you’ve finished watching it. It’s a British psychological crime drama that tackles some pretty intense themes around the dangers of online communities, youth violence, and the complicated lives of adolescents. It’s tough to describe this series without saying “gripping” because that’s exactly what it is. For most of its four episodes, it’s impossible to look away.
Set against the backdrop of a high-profile murder case, the show centers on 13-year-old Jamie, who’s been accused of murdering his classmate. The investigation digs deep into his troubled life, uncovering how toxic online spaces, especially the misogynistic corners of the internet, have shaped his views and decisions. Adolescence doesn’t pull punches when it comes to showing the dark side of digital influence on impressionable minds, and it’s this rawness that makes the series stand out.
First off, let’s talk about the acting. Wow. The performances in this show are absolutely stellar. Owen Cooper, who plays Jamie, delivers an emotionally charged performance that’s both heartbreaking and terrifying. You can feel the weight of the character’s internal struggles in every scene. Stephen Graham, as Jamie’s father, Eddie, brings a lot of depth to his role, showcasing a man who is clearly broken by the events surrounding his son. And while the characters are complex and their motives aren’t always clear, the show does an incredible job of making them feel real.
The pacing and direction of the series are also worth mentioning. The choice to film each episode in a single take adds a layer of intensity to the already tense atmosphere. You’re not just watching a story unfold; you’re experiencing it in real time, which only makes everything feel more immediate and personal.
And let’s talk about the accents. This is where the show lost me a little bit. There were times when I struggled to understand what was being said, especially with some of the heavier regional accents. I know it’s part of the charm and authenticity of the show, but if you’re someone who isn’t used to certain British dialects, be prepared to rewind a few times or turn on those subtitles. It doesn’t take away from the overall experience, but it’s worth mentioning if you’re someone who needs to catch every word.
While I really did enjoy Adolescence, I’m not sure I loved it as much as some others. I think it’s one of those shows that will resonate differently depending on your perspective, and I can totally see how it could be someone’s absolute favorite. The way it handles social issues is masterful, and it makes you think about things like the dangers of online influence in a way that isn’t preachy but still very impactful.
The story itself is gripping and emotional, but I did find myself wanting a little more clarity in some parts. It’s a dark, introspective show that leaves a lot up to interpretation, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but I personally would’ve liked a bit more resolution. That said, Adolescence is still a show that’s well worth your time, especially if you enjoy intense, character-driven dramas that dig into the complexities of human nature.
In the end, Adolescence gets 4.5 stars from me. The performances alone are worth the watch, and the series succeeds in being both thought-provoking and emotionally gripping. While I can’t say it blew me away in the way it did for some others, it’s undeniably a standout in its genre and will likely stay with me for a while. Definitely check it out, but be prepared to grapple with some heavy themes and, occasionally, a bit of confusion over what the characters are saying.
OUR RATING
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