I watched Adolescence yesterday. It’s a very short series, just four episodes. Initially, I wasn’t planning to write about it, but the thoughts keep running in the background, so I decided to put them down.
Disclaimer: This review is based on my perspective. If you haven’t watched it, I recommend doing so. I’m not sure if it will have the same impact on you.
The story follows a 13-year-old boy, Jamie, who is entering the adolescence phase of life. It begins with his arrest for murder. At first, he seems innocent, he blends in so well that we believe he didn’t do it. But when they play the tape of him… shit. That’s where the real twist begins.
The story gets heated up when Erin (psychologist) comes into the picture. Her questions about Jamie’s understanding of masculinity, femininity, and identity are shocking for someone his age. The way he processes these concepts is unsettling and quite shocking.
The series also explores the dark side of social media, touching on the 80/20 rule and Truth Group (red pill and black pill). This is why I follow Scott Galloway, he stressed on this so many times. Coming back to the story, Jamie’s shifting tone and his evolving understanding of his father’s views (especially the football story) contrast sharply with his father’s own perspective.
The climax is intense. It leaves the parents questioning their upbringing methods and the differences in raising boys and girls. Jamie eventually apologizes and pleads guilty. His father realizes that, despite not being as wild as his own father, things still took a dark turn. The mother role plays a crucial role in these discussions. Done quite well actually.
The story leaves a lasting thought: some things are out of our control, but the impact parents have on their children is enormous. I’ve come across many interviews that highlight how much parental validation shapes us. Jamie’s case is no different. Few people have said that people with traumatic experiences succeed in life, driven by the need to prove themselves.
TBH, many of our actions crave parental attention. Some chase validation, some rebel, and some outgrow/accept it by realizing that parents, too, are just individuals shaped by their own experiences. In the end, seeking their approval may not make sense in the long run. It all boils down to awareness and acceptance!
Cheers!
Check out the other posts in Movies
If you like what you see and wish to support my work, then
Share your thoughts/suggestion at the comment section or mail at
randomwhyss[@]gmail[dot]com
Don’t miss out! Get notified about new blog posts straight to your inbox !
(No spam, pinky promise!)
Enter your mail to receive updates
Random Whys 