Adolescence is a new Netflix 4-episode miniseries that recently premiered on Netflix. The show stars Stephen Graham, Owen Cooper, Ashley Walters, Erin Doherty, Faye Marsay, and Christine Tremarco. When 13-year-old boy, Jamie Miller (Cooper), is accused of the murder of a classmate, his family, therapist, and the detective in charge are all left asking what really happened.

The show premiered on Netflix on March 13th. I didn’t know it existed until some reviewers pointed out that should be watched over The Electric State, and I couldn’t agree more. The premiere heavily intrigued me, but going in, I had no idea each episode was shot in one-take. I would like to believe each episode really was shot in one-take, because I couldn’t tell a single cut in any of the episodes, yet I feel like what they did was impossible. Either way, each episode immerses you in the experience of the reality in real time. The unique concept is something I haven’t seen come out of Netflix in years.

I could go on and on why Stephen Graham is one of the best and most underrated actors working today. Truth is, if you were to ask a broad American audience, most might recognize him from the Venom movies, which do not properly showcase his talents. After seeing Boiling Point, a one-take film, I knew the guy was immensely talented. Not only does he stars in the show, but he also co-writes it. The territory he puts himself in rightfully showcases his talents as a writer and as an actor. I can’t wait to see what he does next.

Out of the 4 episodes, DI Luke Bascombe (Walters) is only in 2 of them, but he manages to have an everlasting impression. The show’s structure shows different perspectives on the characters introduced to the suspect. Bascombe is in charge of leading the fight to seek justice for the victim. His relationship with his kid even questions the parrels the show’s themes. Can he also be good enough to ensure something like this ever happens again? It’s a very interest concept that allows us to root for the character.

Only being in one episode, Erin Doherty plays as Briony Ariston, Jamie’s therapist. Even though she is only in one episode, she also leaves behind an impression of how someone has to be the best they can be for a kid she wants to help without leaving behind too much judgment. Considering the suspect murdered a victim as the same gender as the therapist, you can see where Doherty trying her best to keep her composure throughout. By the end, you know she did everything she could, even if it meant not totally seeking resolution.

Performances from a kid actor can be so hit-or-miss, but I haven’t seen something as immensely impressive as the one who plays Jamie, played by Owen Cooper. In the first episode, you truly believe this kid didn’t do anything. When the event is actually revealed, you still believe this kid believes he didn’t do anything wrong. The third episode gives him the opportunity to highlight his talents. The places this kid goes to without skipping a beat is unreal. I know the kid is still quite young, but we may be seeing one of the best up-and-coming actors working today if he can keep this up.

The fourth, and final, episode is deeply authentic and heartbreaking. It starts off nice, but as time goes on, you realize just how this family is having to deal with what their son did a year prior. I am impressed by how much is revealed within an hour. The show doesn’t try to condone the family, but show how the family has to move on from what happened. They also did the best they could. It ends on a powerful note with dialogue between the husband and wife that I am still thinking about. The final scene though will leave you speechless.

With only four episodes, I can imagine some viewers may want more resolution. The show is more geared towards the different perspectives involved and how they seek resolution. The show is vulnerable and raw, giving viewers something undoubtedly realistic. Some may even want something to escape reality. This show throws you right into it, making you question your thoughts and morals, making it one of the most important shows of all time.

Overall, Adolescence is one of the best and most important shows of all time anchored by raw and authentic performances. Each episodes being shot in one-take allows you to be there with these characters in real time. The show might be over before you know it, but it will stay with you for a long time after you finish watching it.

VERIDCT: 5/5 (Perfect)