What factors contribute to a child becoming a victim? Who bears the responsibility for the actions of a 13-year-old charged with the murder of a classmate? Should it fall on the parents? What circumstances precipitated the crime? Numerous crime dramas explore themes of murder and the subsequent investigations, attempting to address these complex questions. However, none have approached the impact of the recent Netflix release, Adolescence. This profoundly unsettling and expertly crafted drama by Jack Thorne and Stephen Graham confronts difficult issues and advances the genre in truly meaningful ways.

The premise

Adolescence consists of four episodes, each nearly an hour in length, crafted to appear as though filmed in a single continuous take. This technique, reminiscent of Alejandro G. Iñárritu's Birdman, effectively immerses the audience in the narrative, allowing for an intimate connection with the characters, where even a brief moment of silence can evoke a profound sense of claustrophobia.

The series begins with a group of police officers forcibly entering the home of 13-year-old Jamie Miller (Owen Cooper). It soon becomes apparent that he has been accused of murdering his classmate Katie the previous night. The camera fluidly captures the unfolding events as Jamie is transported to the police station, where his information is recorded, and his parents, along with his older sister Lisa (Amelie Pease), arrive. Both his father, Eddie Miller (Stephen Graham), and mother, Christine Tremarco (Manda Miller), are visibly shocked, processing the situation while adhering to the necessary procedures. Jamie selects Eddie to act as his appropriate adult, firmly denying the allegations with the statement, "I’ve done nothing wrong."

However, there is an underlying tension. Detective DI Luke Bascombe (Ashley Walters), whose son attends the same school as Jamie, struggles to grasp the turmoil that ensues once the news reaches the classrooms. The portrayal of the school atmosphere, rife with bullying, aggression, and a cacophony of sounds, is strikingly realistic. Bascombe is soon drawn into the investigation. As an adult, he remains unaware of the specific nuances of the 'incel culture' that permeates the lives of these children and their reactions on social media. The implications of this culture and its manifestations create a complex and troubling web.

A technical accomplishment

Adolescence boldly explores its themes, particularly evident in the gripping penultimate episode that features an entire session between Jamie and child psychologist Briony (Erin Doherty). Several months have elapsed since Jamie's detention, and Briony has been tasked with conducting an independent evaluation of him. Jamie has gained insight into the true nature of his surroundings and the intentions of those around him. "Look at you, so hopeful, as if I am going to reveal something of great significance," he remarks to Briony, as she navigates from light-hearted conversation to more challenging inquiries.

Jamie sees through her tactics, his gaze is so intense that it shatters the illusion of the once-innocent child he was thought to be. This single hour of Adolescence is a remarkable achievement, beautifully captured by Matthew Lewis and directed by Phillip Barantini. Erin Doherty brings significant depth and nuance to her role, but the true standout is child actor Owen Cooper. In his debut performance, Cooper is compellingly unsettling as he gradually lowers his defences, exposing the origins of Jamie's struggles. He imbues Jamie with a profound inner life and cleverness, conveying an entire backstory through mere glances. It is a performance of extraordinary, gripping intensity.

Final thoughts

What renders Adolescence so impactful is its refusal to coerce the audience into a predetermined conclusion. By steadfastly adhering to the elements of time, setting, and action, it creates a cohesive blend of emotional intelligence and sensitivity that compels viewers to engage more deeply and scrutinize the dialogue with greater care. It raises critical questions about the missteps of the characters: Where did they falter? What choices could they have made as parents to prevent this tragic outcome?

The focus, or the absence of it, is crucial. Adolescence demands full attention for its characters, seeking care and persistence while deliberately avoiding simplistic resolutions. This series utilizes a single case to illuminate an entire framework of parenting, education, and maturation. What lessons are we imparting to our children? What type of adults are they evolving into? If we fail to observe, who will? Adolescence, undoubtedly one of the finest shows of the year, prompts viewers to pay close attention.

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