Netflix Series Explores Troubling Themes of Youth Violence and Social Media

LOS ANGELES, California — A new Netflix drama, “Adolescence,” premiered on March 13, 2025, exploring the harrowing themes of young male rage and societal decay. The four-part series stars Stephen Graham as Eddie Miller and Owen Cooper as his 13-year-old son, Jamie, who faces grave accusations when he is charged with the murder of a female classmate.

Based on observations of rising violence among youth, the creators of “Adolescence” aim to shed light on the pressures young boys face in today’s world. Graham stated, “This could be happening to us!” as he emphasizes the ordinary nature of the family portrayed in the show.

The gripping narrative unfolds in the first episode, where police violently enter the Miller home, arresting Jamie on suspicion of murder. The series is noted for its technical achievement, filmed in single continuous shots, which enhances its pacing and urgency.

Co-writer Jack Thorne expressed hopes that the show becomes a catalyst for change, urging its screening in schools and Parliament. He warned, “This is only going to get worse,” advocating for government intervention to regulate children’s access to social media.

Graham drew inspiration for the series from real-life incidents where young boys committed acts of violence against girls, stating, “What’s going on in society where this kind of thing is becoming a regular occurrence?” His reflections capture the alarming normalization of violence against women seen in today’s culture.

Thorne explains the series aims to probe deeper into the societal influences impacting youth behavior. He addressed the phenomenon of young boys being “polluted” by negative online ideologies, saying, “To understand him, we have to understand the pressures upon him.”

The critical reception has been significant, with the show quickly becoming the most-streamed title in both the UK and the US in its inaugural week. The creators aim to start conversations about the responsibility society has in shaping the lives of young men.

The character of Jamie reflects the struggles of many young boys who may feel isolated or misplaced, often finding solace in negative online spaces. Thorne argues, “It’s about parents that didn’t see him, a school system that let him down, and the ideas that he consumed.”

“Adolescence” is not merely a dramatization; it holds a mirror to societal issues, prompting viewers to analyze the environments surrounding youth today. Themes of social media’s corrosive impact on young men, especially in the context of misogynistic influences, are prevalent throughout the series.

Filmmaking aspects have also sparked interest, particularly the choice to shoot the show in long takes, which Graham described as technically challenging but ultimately rewarding. Director Philip Barantini highlighted the collaborative efforts during production, leading to a unique storytelling method.

The series also sparked discussions on cultural vernacular, as audiences reacted to terms like ‘nonce’ during key scenes, showcasing how context can influence understanding. One viewer noted, “This nonce thing got me reconsidering everything.”

As all four episodes are now available for streaming on Netflix, “Adolescence” remains a pointed examination of contemporary youth issues, stressing the need for collective vigilance in addressing the cultural and technological factors impacting young lives.