Netflix's 'Adolescence' Approaches 100 Million Views

In a remarkable display of popularity, Netflix's miniseries 'Adolescence' has garnered nearly 100 million views within just three weeks of its release. The series, which debuted on March 13, follows the harrowing story of a 13-year-old boy who fatally stabs a classmate. The drama has stirred conversations around its themes and is now being considered for educational use in schools across the UK.

As of now, the four-episode series, with a runtime of approximately 3 hours and 50 minutes, has recorded around 96.7 million views globally. Netflix, which boasts over 300 million subscribers in more than 190 countries, releases its weekly viewing charts every Tuesday, tracking the top performances from Monday to Sunday.

In its first week, 'Adolescence' attracted 24.3 million views, followed by 42 million in the second week, and 30.4 million in the third week. The show's premise centers on Jamie Miller, portrayed by Owen Cooper, who finds himself at the center of a police investigation after the tragic incident unfolds. The emotional turmoil faced by his parents, played by Stephen Graham and Christine Tremarco, is vividly depicted as they grapple with the shocking reality of their son's actions.

The narrative delves deep into the psychological complexities surrounding Jamie, exploring the effects of bullying, social isolation, and the pressures associated with societal expectations of masculinity. The series poses critical questions regarding the influences exerted by peers, the internet, and social media on young men.

Notably, the series is shot in real-time, with each episode crafted as a continuous take, enhancing the immersive experience. The standout third episode features a psychologist, played by Erin Doherty, as she attempts to navigate Jamie's understanding of his horrifying act. This intense, chamber play-style segment captures Jamie's conflicting nature as he oscillates between childlike innocence and a desperate need to assert dominance over the adult interrogator.

In a significant move, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has expressed support for the series to be made available in schools, following a meeting with the creators of 'Adolescence.' He emphasized the importance of sharing such narratives with students, highlighting the pressing issues the series raises about youth experiences and societal challenges. Starmer noted that understanding these topics is crucial for addressing the underlying issues of violence and misogyny, which he witnessed firsthand in his previous role as head of the Crown Prosecution Service.

As the series continues to captivate audiences worldwide, its potential role in educational discussions marks a pivotal moment in how media can engage with critical social issues.