‘Adolescence’ Review: The Netflix Show That Everyone Is Praising but Is Not Easy to Watch

A great series is not just about good acting and storytelling—it requires meticulous direction, cinematography, set design, sound, and much more. ‘Adolescence,’ now streaming on Netflix, is being hailed as one of the best web series in the world. From the very first 10 minutes of the pilot episode, it becomes clear that this show is unlike any other, leaving viewers in stunned silence.

A Story That Unfolds in Layers

‘Adolescence’ captures the most vulnerable phase of life—teenage years. The show revolves around a 13-year-old boy accused of murdering a classmate. The first scene itself is gripping—the police break into a house, guns drawn, and arrest the young boy. Despite the gravity of the crime, he is treated as a juvenile, given legal rights, and accompanied by his father.

While the premise might seem simple, the storytelling is layered and immersive, offering a deep dive into law enforcement, the judicial system, and psychological impact.

The Power of Single Long-Shot Episodes

One of the most impressive aspects of the show is its cinematography. Each of the four episodes, each lasting 1 to 1.25 hours, is shot in a single continuous take. This technique, also known as a long-shot or one-take sequence, enhances realism and keeps viewers engaged. Anurag Kashyap himself praised the technical brilliance of this show, highlighting the immense effort required to pull off such seamless storytelling.

A Gut-Wrenching Third Episode

The third episode is particularly intense and demands an emotionally strong heart to watch. It features a powerful conversation between Jamie Miller (the accused teenager) and a psychologist. Owen Cooper, who plays Jamie, delivers a breathtaking performance, making every moment feel painfully real. The raw emotions in this scene will leave you speechless and deeply moved.

Outstanding Performances and an Emotional Ending

The cast delivers exceptional performances, especially Stephen Graham, who plays Jamie’s father, Eddie Miller. His final breakdown scene raises thought-provoking questions—how can a parent monitor their child’s every action? How can they know what their child is exposed to behind closed doors?

This final moment is reminiscent of the emotional impact of ‘13 Reasons Why’—leaving viewers shaken, questioning fate, and reflecting on life’s irreversible moments.

Why ‘Adolescence’ Is a Must-Watch

With an IMDB rating of 8.5, ‘Adolescence’ is an intense, thought-provoking, and deeply moving series. It is not just about crime—it’s about mental health, bullying, parenting, and the fragile nature of adolescence. If you’re looking for a show that will leave you emotionally shaken yet deeply reflective, this is it.

‘Adolescence’ Review: The Netflix Show That Everyone Is Praising but Is Not Easy to Watch

A great series is not just about good acting and storytelling—it requires meticulous direction, cinematography, set design, sound, and much more. ‘Adolescence,’ now streaming on Netflix, is being hailed as one of the best web series in the world. From the very first 10 minutes of the pilot episode, it becomes clear that this show is unlike any other, leaving viewers in stunned silence.

A Story That Unfolds in Layers

‘Adolescence’ captures the most vulnerable phase of life—teenage years. The show revolves around a 13-year-old boy accused of murdering a classmate. The first scene itself is gripping—the police break into a house, guns drawn, and arrest the young boy. Despite the gravity of the crime, he is treated as a juvenile, given legal rights, and accompanied by his father.

While the premise might seem simple, the storytelling is layered and immersive, offering a deep dive into law enforcement, the judicial system, and psychological impact.

The Power of Single Long-Shot Episodes

One of the most impressive aspects of the show is its cinematography. Each of the four episodes, each lasting 1 to 1.25 hours, is shot in a single continuous take. This technique, also known as a long-shot or one-take sequence, enhances realism and keeps viewers engaged. Anurag Kashyap himself praised the technical brilliance of this show, highlighting the immense effort required to pull off such seamless storytelling.

A Gut-Wrenching Third Episode

The third episode is particularly intense and demands an emotionally strong heart to watch. It features a powerful conversation between Jamie Miller (the accused teenager) and a psychologist. Owen Cooper, who plays Jamie, delivers a breathtaking performance, making every moment feel painfully real. The raw emotions in this scene will leave you speechless and deeply moved.

Outstanding Performances and an Emotional Ending

The cast delivers exceptional performances, especially Stephen Graham, who plays Jamie’s father, Eddie Miller. His final breakdown scene raises thought-provoking questions—how can a parent monitor their child’s every action? How can they know what their child is exposed to behind closed doors?

This final moment is reminiscent of the emotional impact of ‘13 Reasons Why’—leaving viewers shaken, questioning fate, and reflecting on life’s irreversible moments.

Why ‘Adolescence’ Is a Must-Watch

With an IMDB rating of 8.5, ‘Adolescence’ is an intense, thought-provoking, and deeply moving series. It is not just about crime—it’s about mental health, bullying, parenting, and the fragile nature of adolescence. If you’re looking for a show that will leave you emotionally shaken yet deeply reflective, this is it.