Introduction
Adolescence is a 2025 British crime drama miniseries created by Jack Thorne and Stephen Graham, directed by Philip Barantini. The show, produced for Netflix, delivers a compelling narrative centered on a 13-year-old boy accused of murdering a female classmate. Featuring an impressive cast led by Stephen Graham, Erin Doherty, and Owen Cooper, the series has gained critical acclaim for its unique storytelling, powerful performances, and real-time, single-shot filming technique.
Plot Summary
Set in a small English town, Adolescence follows the arrest of 13-year-old Jamie Miller (Owen Cooper) after the murder of his classmate, Katie Leonard. The series explores Jamie’s time in police custody, his psychological evaluation, and the broader implications of online radicalization and bullying. Through intense interrogations, school investigations, and psychological assessments, the show reveals Jamie’s troubled past, including his exposure to the incel subculture and social media-driven harassment. As the story unfolds, Jamie’s interactions with his family, detectives, and a forensic psychologist expose the complexities of his actions and the devastating consequences of youth violence.
Cast and Characters
- Stephen Graham as Eddie Miller, Jamie’s father
- Owen Cooper as Jamie Miller, the accused teenager
- Ashley Walters as DI Luke Bascombe, the lead investigator
- Erin Doherty as Briony Ariston, a forensic psychologist
- Faye Marsay as DS Misha Frank, assisting in the investigation
- Christine Tremarco as Manda Miller, Jamie’s mother
- Mark Stanley as Paul Barlow, Jamie’s solicitor
- Jo Hartley, Amélie Pease, and others in supporting roles
Production and Filming
Adolescence is notable for its real-time, single-shot filming approach, making each episode feel immersive and intense. The series was shot across various UK locations, including Sheffield, South Kirkby, and South Elmsall. Each episode, running about an hour, was meticulously rehearsed and filmed in continuous takes to enhance realism.
Critical Acclaim
Upon its Netflix release on March 13, 2025, Adolescence received widespread praise from critics and audiences alike. With a 99% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a 90/100 Metacritic score, reviewers lauded the show’s gripping storytelling, exceptional acting, and bold cinematographic choices. Critics from The Guardian and The Daily Telegraph described the series as “phenomenal” and “devastatingly powerful,” with special recognition given to Owen Cooper’s breakthrough performance.
Social Impact and Reception
Beyond entertainment, Adolescence has sparked discussions on youth violence, social media influence, and misogyny. UK politicians, including MP Anneliese Midgley and Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, have called for the series to be shown in schools and Parliament to raise awareness about these pressing issues.
Conclusion
Adolescence is a thought-provoking and hard-hitting crime drama that masterfully blends social commentary with gripping storytelling. Its real-time filming style and raw performances set a new standard for television, making it a must-watch for fans of intense and meaningful drama. Available now on Netflix, this miniseries is a crucial exploration of modern youth culture and its dark undercurrents.