Adolescence is a 2025 Netflix mini-series based on real events that has parents worldwide talking. This four-episode drama dives headfirst into something beyond every parent’s worst nightmare, exploring the dark side of social media and teen relationships. The story follows 13-year-old Jamie Miller, a shy boy from a loving home, who is arrested for the murder of a girl in his class. It’s a gripping, intense ride that is as emotionally riveting as it is unsettling. But more than that- Adolescence has opened the door to important family conversations about what our kids face online and off.
GET TO THE POINT
In case you don’t have time to read our review, we decided to break down the online dangers presented in Adolescence as well as parenting solutions.
- Pornography – In the series, a nude image of the main character’s classmate is shared in their school. To prevent your children from seeing such images, download the Canopy Parental Control App which can block nudity (and even partial nudity) on otherwise acceptable websites and social platforms, and that can detect sexting.
- Excessive screen time – The disastrous spiral of actions and consequences in the series begins with children on their devices, bullying and shaming each other. Click here to learn more about the downsides of excessive screen time. An app like Canopy can help you manage how much time your kid spends online.
- Children out and about, getting into (very significant) trouble – A location tracking app like Canopy lets you know where your kid is at all times.
- All of the above and more – A healthy, open dialogue is a must for all kids. Let them know they can always come to you if they encounter something uncomfortable (or worse) online. Speak with them about implementing a Family Tech Agreement which will keep them safer and help ensure their mental health.
Overview: A Hard-to-Watch, Hard-to-Look-Away Drama
From the moment police officers bust down the Miller family’s front door to arrest Jamie, Adolescence commands your attention – it’s an ordinary family’s worst nightmare unfolding. Stephen Graham and Christine Tremarco play Eddie and Manda Miller – everyday loving parents thrown into chaos when their son is accused of a horrific, unforgiveable act. There are no stereotypical “bad parents” here; the Millers are portrayed as caring and hard-working, just like any of us (at least, just like how we would like to be!). That relatability is part of what makes this series so chilling: as a viewer, you immediately think this could happen to anyone in our social-media-fueled world.
Each of the four episodes is filmed in one continuous take – a bold “one-shot” approach that pulls you into the story in real time. It might sound gimmicky, but it really helps ratchet up the tension. You feel like a fly on the wall, following Jamie through police hallways, interrogation rooms, and emotional gauntlets without a single break. The immersive camerawork and phenomenal performances (especially from newcomer Owen Cooper as Jamie) make the drama feel eerily real. And since we know from the beginning who committed the crime, the real mystery becomes why it happened. What could drive a seemingly normal 13-year-old to do something so terrible?
In exploring this unsettling question, the series tackles some extremely heavy teen issues head-on: cyberbullying, social media humiliation, revenge porn, toxic online influences, and the immense pressure on adolescents today. It’s a challenging watch, no doubt. There’s some strong language and upsetting violence, so this isn’t one for younger kids. But for parents (and older teens who can handle mature themes), Adolescence is a must-see that will get you thinking and talking about the digital and emotional minefield teens navigate now.
What Do the Critics Say?
Adolescence has generated strong reactions from family-focused reviewers.
Common Sense Media praised the series for its unflinching look at the perils of growing up digital. They note the immersive one-shot style makes the drama extra impactful. They also advise it’s best for older teens and parents (given the mature content), but highlight Adolescence as a valuable conversation starter about online safety and empathy.
MovieGuide similarly applauded the show’s high quality – especially its impressive single-take camerawork and strong performances – even as they warned the subject matter is extremely mature. Their review urges extreme caution for younger viewers and essentially says that while Adolescence is top-tier television, it’s not appropriate for kids.
Digging Into the Issues: What Adolescence Can Teach Us
Beyond its gripping drama, Adolescence shines a light on several real-life issues that parents and teens grapple with. The show doesn’t preach, but it vividly illustrates challenges that are all too relevant today. Here are a few of the big themes and takeaways worth noting:
Revenge Porn & Online Shaming
One storyline involves a private topless photo of Jamie’s classmate being widely shared without her consent – essentially teen “revenge porn” – which becomes a key catalyst for the tragedy. It’s a stark reminder that a single malicious snap can upend a teenager’s life. The takeaway: we must talk to our kids about digital privacy and respect, and make sure they understand that sharing someone’s intimate content without permission is not a prank – it’s a serious violation that can have devastating consequences.
Cyberbullying & Social Media Pile-On
The show also depicts cyberbullying in a very authentic way. Classmates taunt Jamie on social media – even using mocking emojis and labels like “incel” – and the harassment snowballs. Because of social media, Jamie has no escape; the insults follow him everywhere, compounding his despair. Conflicts that once ended at school now continue 24/7 on kids’ phones. For parents, this is a chilling illustration of why we need to be vigilant about our children’s online world. Adolescence might prompt you to ask: would I know if my child were being bullied online? And have I made it safe for them to tell me? It’s a wake-up call to ensure the answer is yes.
Incel Culture & Toxic Masculinity
Hearing middle-schoolers hurl the term “incel” around is one of the most eye-opening (and disturbing) parts of Adolescence. It shows how toxic internet subcultures can seep into teen life. Jamie is basically told he’ll be a virgin forever – an emasculating insult that clearly devastates him. Even a DI is shocked to hear 13-year-olds talking like this. The series makes it clear that young boys can internalize warped notions of masculinity they pick up online. It’s a nudge for parents to proactively discuss healthy attitudes about relationships and self-worth with our kids – before Reddit trolls and YouTube rants do it for us.
Final Thoughts: Why Adolescence Is Worth Your Time
Watching Adolescence is not an easy experience, but it’s absolutely worthwhile. You’ll probably find yourself cringing or holding your breath at times, but you’ll also be glad you watched – especially if it sparks a much-needed heart-to-heart with your teen. Consider watching it together with your older teens, or watch it on your own first and then use it as a conversation starter. A series like this succeeds when it gets us talking about tough topics, and Adolescence will definitely get those conversations flowing.
In the end, Adolescence is a valuable wake-up call. It reminds us that growing up in the digital age is a whole new ballgame – one where a teen’s social media feed can be a minefield of threats and pressures. We might not be able to shield our kids from every danger, but we can be there to guide them through it.
If you’re looking for a thought-provoking show that will spark meaningful conversations, give Adolescence a try. It’s not a light or fun watch by any means, but you’ll come away with plenty to discuss – and probably an urge to hug your teen a little tighter and talk with them a little more. And that’s ultimately a good thing for all of us.
We were asked about Adolescence…
What is Adolescence about?
Adolescence is a 2025 mini-series drama about a teenager who is accused of murdering a classmate. The series touches upon many online dangers faced by kids and their parents.
Is Adolescence appropriate for children to watch?
There is some “light” violence, but the plot takes shape after a horrific murder which is frequently referenced. That, along with some sexual themes and profanity, means that you need to make sure your kid is mature enough for this kind of content. If you do watch Adolescence with your child, it is an opportunity to open a discussion on the topics touched upon in the show.
Should I watch Adolescence?
Adolescence is a great work artistically, although many may find it bleak and depressing. It is definitely thought-provoking, especially for parents who may not be fully on top of what their kids are doing online.
