Hi, Stage 32 Creatives!

This month, I want to talk about the impact that Netflix's TV Series “Adolescence” is having all over the entertainment industry, especially on the audiences.

The first time I heard about “Adolescence” was because my social media in Portugal was blowing up with people sharing about the series and the pressures of social media on teenagers. Also, people were sharing about the incel emoji culture, and I didn’t understand anything.

That made me want to watch the show, and what a big lesson it was for me. As a screenwriter and executive, I ensure that all my projects are driven by social responsibility. However, I had not considered the current societal impact of the TV series Adolescence. This highlights the enormous responsibility and significant impact our films, projects, and screenplays have in raising awareness within our society. Our role is vital.

From The Beginning

Adolescence is a gripping British crime drama mini-series that premiered on Netflix on March 13, 2025. The show, created by Jack Thorne and Stephen Graham, unfolds over four episodes, each filmed in a single continuous take, which adds to its immersive and intense storytelling style.

The Story

The series centers on Jamie Miller, a 13-year-old boy accused of murdering his classmate, Katie Leonard. The narrative begins with a dramatic police raid at Jamie's home, where he is arrested on suspicion of murder. As the investigation progresses, it reveals Jamie's struggles with chronic bullying, particularly through social media, where he was labeled an "incel" and targeted by classmates, including Katie. The show delves into Jamie's fragile mental state, his family's turmoil, and the community's reaction to the crime. It also explores the psychological impact of online radicalization and the pressures faced by teenagers in today's digital age.

The WHY

As RB tells us always, WHY is the most important for our stories.

See Stephen Graham explain, WHY in this video HERE!

The Impact

Cultural Milestone: The show has broken records, becoming the most-watched streaming program in the UK during its debut week, with over 6.45 million viewers tuning in. Its unique storytelling approach, with each episode filmed in a single continuous take, has captivated audiences and critics alike.

Social Conversations: Adolescence delves into pressing issues like toxic masculinity, online misogyny, and the pressures of social media on teenagers. It has sparked national and international discussions about these themes, even being debated in the British Parliament.

In Portugal, the impact of this show is so great that the Portuguese police created emoji meaning boards and are holding public sessions to educate parents. All of this is because of the social respect shown by the show. Without a doubt, filmmakers carry a significant responsibility within our society.

Educational Tool: The series is being used as an educational resource in schools across the UK to address topics like bullying, gender-based violence, and the influence of harmful online communities. Netflix has partnered with organizations to provide guides for teachers and parents to facilitate constructive conversations.

Critique and Praise: While the show has been praised for its raw and unflinching portrayal of adolescent struggles, some critics argue that its depiction of boyhood risks oversimplifying complex issues. This has led to debates about its role as an educational tool.

What Makes Adolescence a Winner?

1) One-Take Filming for Every Episode

Unlike most series that rely on traditional editing, Adolescence uses the one-take technique for each episode. This creates an unfiltered, real-time narrative that immerses viewers in the characters’ experiences. While some films, like Birdman or Russian Ark, have employed this technique, it’s rare for an entire series to commit to it.

2) Unflinching Social Commentary

The series delves into complex, timely issues like toxic masculinity, online radicalization, bullying, and the pressures of social media. By tackling these topics head-on, Adolescence does more than entertain; it initiates conversations and raises awareness about critical societal challenges.

3) Teenagers’ Emoji Language

The show incorporates a creative element by featuring teenagers using emojis (incel culture) as a covert language. This reflects the evolving digital communication trends of younger generations, adding authenticity and a unique layer to the narrative.

4) Educational Integration

Beyond entertainment, the series is being used as an educational tool in schools to spark discussions about bullying, gender violence, and harmful online communities. Netflix’s collaboration with educators makes the show a practical resource for real-world impact.

5) Immersive Performances

The continuous take format demands impeccable performances from its actors. Owen Cooper, the young lead, delivers a raw and emotionally charged portrayal of Jamie Miller that has received widespread acclaim.

6) Authenticity in Adolescence

The series captures the real struggles of growing up in a hyper-connected digital age. Its authentic portrayal of teenage life, combined with its innovative storytelling techniques, resonates deeply with audiences.

These elements make Adolescence a trailblazer in modern television, merging creative innovation with social impact.

How Can Merging Creative Innovation with Social Impact be an Amazing Opportunity for the Filmmaking Industry?

1) Authenticity in Storytelling

Screenwriters can craft narratives rooted in real-world issues, ensuring stories feel genuine and relatable. By addressing societal challenges like those explored in Adolescence, writers can spark conversations that resonate with diverse audiences.

Producers and directors can prioritize projects that combine entertainment with social purpose, striking a balance between compelling drama and impactful messaging.

2) Experimentation with Technique

Creative formats, like the one-take filming in Adolescence, push the boundaries of storytelling. Such innovations challenge screenwriters and directors to think beyond traditional methods, exploring how technique can heighten emotional engagement.

Producers can take calculated risks by investing in unconventional approaches, knowing that artistic innovation often garners critical acclaim and audience interest.

3) Collaborations for Social Impact

Screenwriters can work with experts, educators, and advocacy groups to ensure stories are not only compelling but also accurate and impactful.

Producers can forge partnerships with organizations to extend the influence of their projects, as seen with Adolescence being used in schools.

Directors can consider how visual storytelling can amplify the emotional and educational impact of their work.

4) Building a Legacy

By focusing on socially responsible content, filmmakers contribute to a legacy of meaningful storytelling that transcends mere entertainment. This approach can position creators as pioneers in the industry, earning respect and recognition.

5) Audience Engagement and Feedback

Engaging audiences in discussions about the themes presented in their work can foster a loyal following and spark grassroots movements. Adolescence demonstrates how storytelling can educate and empower viewers, creating deeper connections with the audience.

By embracing creative innovation and social responsibility, filmmakers can redefine the entertainment industry, making their art a catalyst for change.

Have you seen it yet? I would love to hear from you. Your creative projects include social responsibility?

Let's hear your thoughts in the comments below!

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