A four-part series has captured the hearts and minds of audiences worldwide with its unflinching portrayal of teenage life in modern Britain. “Adolescence”, created by Jack Thorne, tackles a sensitive topic – the rise of radicalised misogyny among young men. The show follows 14-year-old Jamie Miller, arrested for murdering his classmate Katie, as he navigates a complex world where adults are struggling to keep up.
As Detective DI Luke Bascombe delves deeper into the case, he discovers that the key to understanding Jamie’s actions lies in the online world of teenage boys. The show sheds light on the dark culture of “incel” ideology, which spreads toxic messages about what young men are entitled to expect from girls and women.
The series’ standout episode is a tense session between Jamie and child psychologist Briony, who pushes him towards revealing his true feelings. The 15-year-old Owen Cooper delivers an astonishing performance in this role, showcasing innate talent that has earned him critical acclaim.
While the final episode may feel slightly weaker, it sets the tone for a thought-provoking exploration of masculinity, social media, and the devastating consequences of ignoring these issues. “Adolescence” leaves viewers with more questions than answers, prompting us to reflect on what we’re teaching boys and how we expect them to navigate an increasingly toxic world.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2025/mar/13/adolescence-review-the-closest-thing-to-tv-perfection-in-decades