The digital buzz was already undeniable but now that Netflix has dropped the official trailer for “Adolescence,” a limited series poised to redefine the crime drama genre, expectations just went through the roof, at least for us anyway. Forget your typical episode structure, folks. This is a four-part, real-time descent into chaos, captured in one continuous, breathless shot per installment. Think Boiling Point, but stretched, cooked on high in a pressure-cooker, and served direct to your living room.
At the heart of this exciting project is the collaborative genius of Stephen Graham and Philip Barantini, the duo who previously set pulses racing with their BAFTA and BIFA-nominated feature Boiling Point. Now, they’re amplifying that same signature style, plunging viewers into the maelstrom of a family torn apart. Graham, alongside multi-award winner Jack Thorne (The Swimmers, Joy), are set to star in a narrative that is as visceral as it is emotionally charged.
The story hinges on the arrest of 13-year-old Jamie Miller (debutant Owen Cooper). His world, and that of his family, shatters when he’s accused of murdering a fellow student. Graham plays Eddie Miller, Jamie’s father, a man grappling with unthinkable circumstances whilst Ashley Walters (“Top Boy,” “Missing You”) steps into the role of Detective Inspector Luke Bascombe, navigating the labyrinthine investigation. And Erin Doherty portrays Briony Ariston, the clinical psychologist tasked with understanding Jamie’s fractured psyche.
But the ensemble cast doesn’t stop there as the supporting players include Faye Marsay (“Game of Thrones”), Christine Tremarco, fresh off the acclaimed “The Responder”, and Mark Stanley (“Happy Valley”), Jo Hartley, loved for her work in “After Life,” and newcomer Amélie Pease.
Behind the scenes, Warp Films, Matriarch Productions, and Plan B Entertainment have joined forces to bring this vision to life. Mark Herbert and Emily Feller of Warp Films, alongside Stephen and Hannah Walters of Matriarch Productions, spearhead the executive production. Jack Thorne, through One Shoe Films, and Philip Barantini, via It’s All Made Up Productions, lend their distinctive production voices. And, adding a touch of Hollywood royalty, Brad Pitt, Jeremy Kleiner, Dede Gardner, and Nina Wolarsky of Plan B Entertainment are also on board. Carina Sposato, Peter Balm, and Niall Shamma contribute as Co-Executive Producers, with Jo Johnson serving as Producer.
Prepare to be immersed and to be challenged when this unflinching drama launches on Netflix from March 13th, 2025.
