Netflix’s latest crime drama Adolescence has taken the streaming world by storm since its release last week.
The gripping four-part series follows the harrowing story of a 13-year-old boy, Jamie Miller, who is accused of stabbing his classmate.
Directed by the renowned Philip Barantini, Adolescence isn’t just another crime show—it’s a powerful social commentary that has sparked intense discussions about violence, masculinity, and modern society.
One of the most fascinating aspects of the series is that each episode was filmed in a single continuous shot, a unique approach that added to the intensity of the storytelling.
But with such an ambitious format came major challenges.
The Technical Feats Behind the One-Take Scenes
Director Philip Barantini opened up about the intricate planning required to pull off the continuous-shot style.
Speaking to The Independent, he described how the team meticulously rehearsed every scene, ensuring that sound, camera movements, and cues were perfectly in sync.
“[Tech rehearsals] gave the sound team a chance to position booms exactly where needed.
We also had runners and assistant directors dressed in police uniforms and teacher outfits to blend into the background and manage cues,” Philip explained.
“It was technically demanding, but at the same time, it was a massive collaborative effort—it felt like a choreographed dance.”
The cast and crew spent weeks preparing, with separate rehearsals dedicated to the actors and technical team.
The result? A visually stunning, raw, and immersive viewing experience that keeps audiences on edge.
The Story Behind the Story
Adolescence was co-created and written by acclaimed actor Stephen Graham, who also plays Jamie’s father, Eddie Miller.
Partnering with writer Jack Thorne, Graham crafted a deeply personal and thought-provoking narrative.
According to Jack, the heart of the series lies in exploring male anger.
“We wanted to take a hard look at male rage—at our own anger, at who we are as men.
We’re all different, but we share a relationship with anger, and that honesty is what comes through on screen.”
The cast boasts an impressive lineup, featuring Stephen Graham alongside Owen McDonnell, Ashley Walters, Erin Doherty, Faye Marsay, and more.
Real-Life Tragedies That Inspired the Series
Stephen Graham revealed that two real-life incidents deeply impacted him and ultimately inspired the creation of Adolescence.
Speaking on The Chris Moyles Show on Radio X, he shared how news reports about young boys committing violent crimes shook him to his core.
“It started with an article I read about a young boy who stabbed a girl to death.
It chilled me. Then, a few months later, there was another case—this time on the opposite end of the country.
It hurt my heart,” Stephen said. “I kept asking myself, Why? Why is this happening?”
As a father, Stephen felt compelled to explore the deeper issues contributing to youth violence. “We’re seeing more and more of these cases—young boys, not men, committing horrific crimes.
It made me reflect on our society, our communities, and our role in shaping young people.”
He also touched on the impact of the internet, emphasizing how much influence it has on children today.
“Back when we were kids, we didn’t have this kind of exposure. But today, the internet is as much a teacher and parent as we are.”
A Surprising Cameo and a Rising Star
Fans of Adolescence were surprised to discover a familiar face in the series.
Stephen Graham’s wife, actress and producer Hannah Walters, made an unexpected appearance in episode two.
She played Mrs. Bailey, a strict teacher at Bruntwood Academy, who confronts a grieving student after an emotional outburst.
Meanwhile, 15-year-old Owen McDonnell, who plays Jamie Miller, has become an overnight sensation thanks to his powerful performance. Many are already calling for him to receive a BAFTA nomination.
In a recent interview, Owen revealed his dream role—he’d love to take over from Tom Holland as the next Spider-Man.
Where to Watch Adolescence
With its gripping narrative, raw performances, and innovative filming style, Adolescence has solidified itself as a must-watch. The series is now available for streaming on Netflix.
If you haven’t seen it yet, prepare for a thought-provoking and emotionally intense ride.