Netflix's latest limited series, "Adolescence," made by Jack Thorne and Stephen Graham, provides a startling exploration of murder and female objectification woven into the fabric of our culture. This gripping series is likely to be juxtaposed against previous Netflix hit "Baby Reindeer." "Adolescence," with its brutally honest portrayals and outstanding performances, puts a spotlight on societal shortcomings towards subsequent generations.
Directed superbly by Philip Barantini, "Adolescence" begins in an undisclosed Northern English town during dawn, where Detective Inspector Luke Bascombe (played by Ashley Walters) and his partner Detective Sargent Misha Frank (Faye Marsay) are immersed in casual conversation, which takes a sudden turn as they rush to a unspecified residence. They infiltrate a family home, catching the Millers off-guard, and arrest their 13-year-old son, Jamie (Owen Cooper), for suspected murder. Thus, the narrative of "Adolescence" unfolds.
The aftermath of Jamie’s arrest, the consternation of his family at the police station, and the relentless progression of the incident is captivatingly depicted in the series' first episode. As the drama progresses, episodes follow the narrative through the school Jamie and the victim attended, revealing the ripple effect of the crime on everyone involved and the lack of effective communication with adolescents. The gripping third episode takes place several months later and focuses on Jamie at the juvenile detention center, and his interactions with Briony Ariston (Erin Doherty), a child psychologist assessing his mental state.
The show's genius lies in its ability to delve into the awkward transition from childhood to early adulthood, exploring themes of toxic masculinity and societal pressure, and how these elements can infiltrate the minds of the young via social media. Furthermore, it underlines the requirement for vigilant parental guidance to prevent potential calamities.
The four-episode series "Adolescence" is set to premiere on Netflix on March 13.
