Netflix recently released their new crime drama Adolescence, which quickly skyrocketed to first place on Netflix's "Global Top Ten Series List." This has led many to wonder why this show is receiving so much praise and attention compared to the average crime drama. That's because Adolescence is not your average crime drama—it's a social commentary on the way social media is shaping the minds of young men and, in the process, putting girls lives in danger.

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Plot Overview

The show opens up with the arrest of Jamie Miller, a 13 year old boy, after he was accused of fatally stabbing his female classmate, Katie Leonard. The rest of the series follows the aftermath of this, with each episode delving into a specific aspect of what led up to the crime and the effects it's having on Jamie's community.

The first episode covers Jamie's arrest and interrogation by the police. He's reluctant to provide the authorities with any meaningful information, but it eventually becomes clear that he is guilty. In the second episode, the police visit his school to try and find information on his motive. This leads into what many viewers have declared to be the series' strongest episode.

Episode three is a terrifying journey into Jamie's mind through his conversation with a psychologist hired by his legal team. We find out that he had become indoctrinated by misogynistic, red pill content he found through social media.

Finally, the fourth episode of the series shows the effects that Jamie's arrest is having on his family, and his parents have a conversation about what they did wrong and how they could have done better while raising him.

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Why Adolescence is so Effective in Its Messaging

Adolescence has made a huge impact compared to other shows of its kind with many claiming that it's the best piece of television of our time. Of course, that is a lofty title, but it's not being said for no reason. The show has been able to connect with viewers in a unique, impactful way that is effectively raising awareness and starting discourse around the dangers of social media for teenagers.

One of the most obvious ways in which Adolescence sets itself apart from other crime dramas is the filming style. Every episode of the show is filmed in just one take which immerses the viewer in the show and intensifies their emotional connection with the characters. Also adding to the viewer's emotional reaction to the show is the main premise of the show itself.

Most crime dramas include that the perpetrator had some sort of difficulties that caused them to become a criminal. However, it's made clear that Jamie has two loving, mentally sound parents and a stable home life in a middle class family. In the second and third episodes, it is shown that Jamie's father has trouble controlling his temper and would shame Jamie for performing poorly in sports games.

However, Jamie had a very normal upbringing otherwise. This emphasizes that Jamie's misogynistic mindset is a direct result of social media.

Additionally, the average crime drama is typically about what actually took place during a crime, but Adolescence subverts those expectations. By the end of the first episode, it is clear that Jamie is guilty. Instead of using its run time to tell a story of suspense, mystery, and action, Adolescence uses it to present a much needed, in-depth analysis of why these tragic events continue to happen.

In the fourth episode, it is revealed that Jamie would spend nearly all his time on his computer and refused to speak to or show his mother respect. While it may sound unbelievable that something as commonplace as social media can have such violent, devastating effects, it's sadly based in reality.

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Why We Need More Shows Like Adolescence

A study conducted by the University of Kent and the Association of School and College Leaders detected a fourfold increase in the level of misogynistic content recommended to TikTok accounts over the course of a mere five days on the platform. This proves that algorithms that are made with the intent of keeping users on social media platforms for as long as possible are actively increasing misogyny in male teens.

The study also concluded that these algorithms feed on users' vulnerabilities. Engaging with content about loneliness, exercise, or poor mental health can quickly turn into being shown radical videos that encourage violence against women. This is a large and actively growing issue, but there's not much being done to address it.

I believe that this is why Adolescence was such a huge hit. Many, including myself, found watching it to be cathartic. Oftentimes, it feels like this issue is being left without intervention even though it is actively harming our society at an alarming rate, especially women and young girls. A series discussing the dangers of misogyny and incel culture in such a real and raw manner becoming the most watched show on Netflix is a huge step in the right direction if we want to keep our youth safe.

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Should You Watch Adolescence?

While the show is nothing short of a masterpiece, and I do think that everyone, especially teens and parents, would benefit from watching it, it does have a TV-MA rating. This means that it's not recommended for viewers under 17 years old, so talk to your parent or guardian in order to make the best decision that aligns with your family's values.

With that being said, Adolescence is an amazingly well done work of television that brings attention to important issues. Even if you decide against watching it, you should take the time to educate yourself on the subject matter, because the more aware we are of the problem, the better we are able to combat it.