[This article contains spoilers up to episode three of Adolescence.
Why Adolescence Is the Talk of the Town
Erin Doherty, a prominent actress, explains why everyone is captivated by the Netflix miniseries Adolescence. The show has received acclaim for its groundbreaking approach, with critics dubbing it “perfection,” a “masterclass,” and “powerful TV.” Each of the four episodes is captured in a single, uninterrupted shot, showcasing remarkable performances and leaving audiences in awe of director Philip Barantini’s skill.
A Gripping Narrative Unfolds
Written by Jack Thorne and Stephen Graham, the narrative follows Jamie (played by Owen Cooper), a 13-year-old boy embroiled in the shocking accusation of killing a classmate. The series explores the harrowing timeline of events, from Jamie’s arrest to police interrogations and psychological evaluations, ultimately forcing his family to reconsider every parental choice they made leading up to this devastating incident.
Graham and Christine Tremarco portray Jamie’s distraught parents, while Ashley Walters and Faye Marsay take on the roles of the detectives piecing together the mystery. Doherty, recognized for her collaboration with Graham in Disney+’s A Thousand Blows, portrays Briony, the psychologist in a captivating third episode alongside Cooper, in his acting debut.
The Alarming Influence of the Internet
The series takes a dark turn as it examines Jamie’s internet history, revealing his radicalization through online culture. The rise of incel ideology and misogyny seems to play a crucial role in shaping vulnerable youth, culminating in acts of extreme violence. Notably, figures like Andrew Tate are referenced, underscoring the urgent conversation surrounding these online influences.
Parenthood Under Scrutiny
Thorne and Graham pose an unsettling question for parents: What if external influences corrupt a child’s ideologies, leading them to violence? “It’s a reality we can’t ignore,” Doherty states about the themes explored in the series. “It’s vital to address these issues, yet I don’t believe the show provides answers—mainly because we are still grappling with the complexities.”
Doherty’s Reflection on the Role
In an interview with THR, Doherty reflects on how Cooper has rekindled her passion for acting, discussing the emotional depth of Briony, her character, and the nuances in their interactions. “The moment he left the room, it was like I could finally breathe,” she shares about the episode’s climactic emotional release.
Securing the Role
Discussing how this opportunity arose, she shares, “While finishing A Thousand Blows, I asked Stephen about his current projects. He mentioned working with Jack Thorne on Adolescence, and I was immediately intrigued. Knowing their past work, I knew this would be special.” After a few months, Stephen reached out, igniting her journey into this impactful project.
The Thrill of One-Shot Filmmaking
Doherty describes the exhilarating challenge of filming in a single shot, drawing parallels to theater. “It’s a unique experience; you feel the energy of the moment. Everything unfolded naturally, and you only learned through experience.”
Preparation and Performance
The rehearsal process entailed two weeks of choreography and instinctual bonding between the actors. “Phil’s direction allowed us to adapt fluidly during takes. Ultimately, we captured a raw and dangerous essence that keeps viewers engaged.”
Unique Challenge of Filming
The dynamic filming environment included one cameraman who closely followed the actors. “The camera’s movement felt organic, almost like an extension of our performances,” she explains. “We eventually forgot about it, allowing our focus to remain solely on the scene.”
Cooper’s Remarkable Debut
Doherty praises Cooper’s natural talent despite it being his first acting role, commenting on how his lack of prior experience allowed him to approach the character without nerves. “His ability to connect with the moment was astonishing,” she affirms.
Exploring Briony’s Depth
Doherty was immediately drawn to Briony’s character, enjoying the complexity of her role as a psychologist. “She’s crafted thoughtfully with diverse layers. I wanted to reflect the inherent emotional drain psychologists face.” Her research included conversations with a former therapist to develop a more profound understanding of her character’s motivations.
The Complexity of Guilt
As Briony navigates her sessions with Jamie, Doherty notes her character’s role as an intermediary between the troubled boy and law enforcement. “She desperately seeks a shred of hope within Jamie, even as the weight of evidence looms heavy.”
Unraveling Emotions
The tumultuous release of emotion upon Jamie’s departure showcases Briony’s internal conflict. “It was cathartic; I felt a bittersweet relief for her,” Doherty states. The moment encapsulates the struggle between professional restraint and overwhelming empathy.
The Broader Message of Adolescence
This series sheds light on the troubling rise of incel culture and its impact on youth, a theme that resonates deeply with viewers. Doherty highlights the importance of addressing these subjects: “We must confront these issues rather than shy away from them. While we lack definitive answers, awareness is the foundational step to meaningful conversations.”
As parents grapple with the implications of today’s toxic online culture, Doherty emphasizes the urgency of the topic. “The reality of parenting in this digital age is daunting. What can we do to safeguard our children?”
Doherty concludes by reiterating the moral complexity presented in the series, where even well-intentioned parenting can fall short amidst external threats. “This isn’t merely a show; it’s a call to action for all of us to engage thoughtfully.”