Netflix drama Adolescence hailed as ‘flawless’ TV

Netflix’s latest British drama, Adolescence, has captivated audiences and critics alike with its raw and unfiltered portrayal of teenage male violence and the influence of toxic online culture. Since its release last week, the four-part series has quickly climbed to the top of Netflix’s global charts, making it the most-watched show over the weekend. With praise pouring in from reviewers and industry insiders, the show has been described as one of the most powerful television dramas in recent memory.

A Hard-Hitting Story with a Social Message

Adolescence tells the gripping and unsettling story of a 13-year-old boy, Jamie Miller, who is arrested for the murder of a female classmate. Played by newcomer Owen Cooper, Jamie’s journey through the justice system is portrayed in a relentless and immersive way, with each episode shot in a single, continuous take. The result is an experience that forces viewers to confront uncomfortable realities about the modern world, particularly the impact of social media and online influencers on young boys.

Stephen Graham, who co-created the series and plays Jamie’s father, revealed that he was inspired by real-life cases of teenage boys committing acts of violence against girls. Speaking to the BBC’s The One Show, Graham said, “I just couldn’t fathom it. I wanted to really examine what’s happening in our society that’s leading to this.” His passion for the project is evident in his powerful performance, which has been widely praised.

Exploring the Rise of Toxic Masculinity

Co-writer Jack Thorne has made it clear that adolescence is not just about one crime but about the broader issue of male rage. In an interview with Radio 4’s Front Row, he stated, “We wanted to look directly into the face of male rage and examine how young boys are being influenced by voices much more dangerous than the ones we usually talk about.” While controversial figures like Andrew Tate are briefly mentioned in the series, Thorne insists the problem runs much deeper. “It’s not about one man. It’s about an entire ecosystem that radicalises young boys into dangerous beliefs,” he explained.

Erin Doherty, who plays a child psychologist in the series, emphasised the importance of sparking conversations. “This show peels back the layers and asks, ‘Why is this happening?’ It’s not here to solve anything, but to get people talking—parents, teachers, friends—so that we don’t ignore these warning signs.”

Cinematic Brilliance and Award-Worthy Performances

One of the most talked-about aspects of Adolescence is its groundbreaking filming technique. Each episode was shot in a single, uninterrupted take, an approach that intensifies the drama and draws viewers into Jamie’s world in a way that feels inescapable. Director Philip Barantini, known for his work on Boiling Point, and cinematographer Matt Lewis orchestrated a claustrophobic and relentless visual experience that leaves a lasting impact.

Critics have been unanimous in their praise. The Times’ Tom Peck called the series “complete perfection,” while The Guardian’s Lucy Mangan hailed it as “the closest thing to TV perfection in decades.” Anita Singh of The Telegraph described it as “a devastating watch,” and Deadline’s Jake Kanter declared it to be “as flawless a four hours of TV drama as I have ever seen.”

Owen Cooper, in his first major role, has been widely recognised as the standout performer. At just 15 years old, his portrayal of Jamie has been described as “astonishing” and “remarkable,” with critics predicting a bright future for the young actor. His ability to seamlessly transition between fear, anger, and vulnerability has drawn comparisons to some of the most seasoned performers in the industry.

A Show That Lingers Long After the Credits Roll

Adolescence does not provide easy answers. Instead, it forces viewers to confront the uncomfortable reality of how easily young minds can be shaped by harmful influences. Hayley Campbell, speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live’s Must Watch, summed it up: “It doesn’t try to solve the problem—it just makes you look at it.” Fellow critic Scott Bryan added, “This is flawless. Owen Cooper deserves the highest recognition for his performance.”

The production design has also been widely praised. Adam Tomlinson, the show’s production designer, described the response to the series as “incredible.” He shared insights into the meticulous preparation required for the single-shot filming technique, revealing that each episode was rehearsed and filmed over multiple takes across several weeks. “Even knowing what was coming, it was still an incredible watch,” he said.

A Must-Watch Drama of the Year

Adolescence is not just another crime drama—it is a cultural conversation starter. By exploring the intersection of online radicalization, male violence, and social media’s dark underbelly, the series holds up a mirror to society. It’s a harrowing, thought-provoking experience that refuses to let viewers look away.

As Rolling Stone’s Alan Sepinwall put it, “This is among the very best things—and an early contender for the best thing—you will see on television this year.” With its powerful storytelling, groundbreaking cinematography, and unforgettable performances, Adolescence is set to leave a lasting mark on television history.

For those who have yet to watch, brace yourselves. Adolescence is not just a show—it’s an experience that will stay with you long after the final frame fades to black.