Have you ever watched Adolescence on Netflix? What do you know about it?
What are the biggest challenges teenagers face, according to series and movies?
How well do films and series represent real teenage life?
Key Vocabulary:
Adolescence / Peer pressure / Coming of age / Emotional rollercoaster /
Insecurity / Self-discovery / Overcoming obstacles / Friendship bonds
What do you think the main message of the series is?
Second viewing — comprehension questions:
Who are the main characters introduced?
What problems or conflicts are shown?
How is adolescence portrayed — positively, negatively, or both?
What emotions does the trailer evoke?
Do TV series and movies show a realistic version of teenage life, or are they exaggerated?
A Groundbreaking New Drama
Netflix’s new drama Adolescence is already making waves in the entertainment industry. Starring and co-created by Stephen Graham, the series follows the story of a teenage boy arrested for the murder of a female classmate. However, what sets Adolescence apart is its extraordinary filming technique. The entire series consists of just four episodes, each shot in a continuous take, with no edits.
A Unique Approach to Storytelling
The opening sequence of the show is particularly striking. It begins with police officers storming a house, arresting the suspect, and transporting him to the police station—all in a single, uninterrupted take. Director Philip Barantini orchestrated this complex filming style with meticulous planning, ensuring seamless camera transitions as the action unfolded.
This technical feat enhances the show’s realism, immersing the audience in the unfolding events. Barantini explains how camerawork logistics were carefully choreographed, with camera operators passing the equipment between each other as the scene progressed.
A Story Rooted in Reality
Stephen Graham was inspired to create Adolescence after observing a rise in youth violence and online radicalization. His goal was to craft a story that avoided simplistic explanations. Instead of blaming the protagonist’s background, the show explores how external influences—such as social media and online subcultures—can shape a young person’s behavior in alarming ways.
“We wanted to remove all the usual excuses,” Graham explains. “His father is not abusive, his mother is not an alcoholic, and there is no traumatic event that triggers his crime. Instead, the focus is on how his environment slowly changes him.”
Powerful Performances and Critical Acclaim
One of the most impressive aspects of Adolescence is the acting. The show introduces 15-year-old Owen Cooper in his first major role, portraying Jamie, the accused teenager. His performance has been widely praised, with co-stars and critics alike marveling at his natural talent.
Erin Doherty, who plays a child psychologist, describes Cooper’s performance as "absolutely ridiculous" in the best way possible. Even experienced actors, including Ashley Walters and Christine Tremarco, were deeply moved by the intensity of his portrayal.
A Thought-Provoking Narrative
The show’s third episode stands out as a masterpiece of storytelling. Unlike the other episodes, which feature elaborate camerawork, this one takes place almost entirely in a single room. It features only two characters: Jamie and the child psychologist. The intense psychological battle between them creates an unforgettable viewing experience.
By exploring themes of youth violence, radicalization, and the impact of technology on teenagers, Adolescence serves as more than just a gripping drama. It forces viewers to reflect on broader societal issues and the unseen dangers lurking in the digital age.
Comprehension Questions
What makes Adolescence unique compared to other crime dramas?
Why did Stephen Graham decide to create this series?
How does the show handle the topic of youth violence and radicalization?
What technical challenges did the filming process involve?
Why is Owen Cooper’s performance considered remarkable?
Vocabulary Exercise
Match the words with their definitions:
Meticulous
Radicalization
Seamless
Immersing
Portrayal
A. The process of becoming more extreme in beliefs or actions.
B. Without noticeable interruptions or gaps.
C. Careful and precise, with great attention to detail.
D. The way in which an actor represents a character.
E. Deeply involving oneself in an experience.
Netflix drama Adolescence has lessons for us all about alienated young men
https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2025/mar/16/netflix-drama-adolescence-young-men-society
https://www.cined.com/one-take-no-cuts-how-netflixs-adolescence-was-made/