Netflix drama that tells 'harrowing' story is 'best TV series of the year'

A harrowing crime drama on Netflix has been named "best TV series of the year".

Adolescence is a British television psychological crime drama series created by Jack Thorne and Stephen Graham and directed by Philip Barantini. Alongside Graham, it also stars Owen Cooper, Erin Doherty, Ashley Walters, Faye Marsay, Mark Stanley, and Christine Tremarco.

Adolescence is special in that each of its episodes was shot in one continuous take, making it feel all-encompassing. It premiered on Netflix in March 2025 and was met with instant critical acclaim for its directing, writing, and cinematography, with particular attention paid to its atmosphere and performances. It was also the first streaming show to place at the top of the Barb Audiences weekly television ratings, and received 13 nominations at the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards, winning for Outstanding Limited or Anthology Series and directing for a limited or anthology series for Barantini in addition to acting wins for Graham, Cooper and Doherty.

The series synopsis states: "In Doncaster town in Yorkshire, England, armed police raid a family home and arrest Jamie Miller, a 13-year-old boy, on suspicion of the murder of his classmate Katie Leonard, who the viewers later learn had rejected his advances and then cyberbullied him. Jamie is processed and held at a police station for questioning and then remanded in custody at a secure training centre.

"Investigations at Jamie's school and interviews by a forensic psychologist uncover Jamie's views towards women associated with the manosphere and the mockery he has received on social media. At home, Jamie's family deals with the community's backlash against them as they work together to cope with Jamie's arrest and subsequent detention."

Adolescence has been hailed by critics, and Metacritic has placed the series at number one in its listing of Best TV Shows This Year, with 91/100.

Adolescence has a near-perfect 97% on Rotten Tomatoes. The critics' consensus states: "Stylistically bold and beautifully acted from top to bottom, Adolescence is a masterclass in televisual storytelling and a searing viewing experience that scars."

One audience reviewer wrote: "This is an excellent masterpiece in all ways. Excellent story, excellent direction, excellent performance, especially the kid has done an amazing job. What a fine actor he is. This show is full of family drama, love, care and emotions."

Rolling Stone described the series as a "harrowing must-watch".

Adolescence is available to stream now on Netflix.