Prateeksha Thakur
New Delhi, 24 March 2025
Netflix’s latest miniseries, Adolescence, has taken Bollywood by storm, with industry heavyweights showering it with praise. This four-episode drama isn’t just another teenage crime story—it’s a deeply unsettling, thought-provoking masterpiece that forces viewers to confront the harsh realities of growing up in the digital age. So, what makes Adolescence so special? Why are stars like Karan Johar, Alia Bhatt, and Anurag Kashyap raving about it? Let’s dive in.
A Story That Hits Home
At its core, Adolescence tells the gripping tale of a 13-year-old boy accused of murdering his classmate. The story unravels through the perspectives of his family, therapist, and a detective determined to uncover the truth. But this is more than just a whodunit—the series explores the psychological turmoil teenagers face today, particularly the impact of social media on self-worth, identity, and mental health.
Filmmaker Karan Johar called it a “wake-up call” for parents, admitting that it heightened his awareness as a father. He wasn’t alone—many Bollywood celebrities found themselves shaken by the show’s brutal honesty.
A Cinematic Masterpiece Filmed in One Take
One of the most striking aspects of Adolescence is its unique filmmaking technique. Each episode is filmed in a single continuous shot. That’s right—no cuts, no edits. Director Philip Barantini described the process as, “You just press record, and then press stop an hour later.” This technique immerses the audience in the tension, making every moment feel raw and real.
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It’s a rare feat in filmmaking and one that has left Bollywood’s finest in awe. Anurag Kashyap, known for his bold cinematic choices, couldn’t help but express both admiration and frustration. He admitted that watching Adolescence made him envious, questioning why Indian OTT platforms aren’t taking similar creative risks.
Stellar Performances That Leave a Mark
While the story and cinematography are gripping, the performances truly make Adolescence unforgettable. Owen Kapoor, who plays a pivotal role, has received particular praise for his haunting portrayal of teenage vulnerability. Anurag Kashyap took to Instagram to applaud the cast, calling their performances “stellar” and “deeply affecting.”
Alia Bhatt, too, couldn’t hold back her admiration, praising the writing, storytelling, and cinematography. Janhvi Kapoor described the series as “brutal and heart-wrenching,” a sentiment echoed by many who watched it.
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What sets Adolescence apart is its unfiltered look at modern teenage struggles. It doesn’t sugarcoat the harsh realities of growing up in a world dominated by social media. Instead, it forces audiences—especially parents—to confront difficult questions about their children’s mental well-being.
It’s rare to see a show that’s both a technical marvel and an emotional gut-punch. With its real-time storytelling, flawless performances, and a narrative that refuses to let go, Adolescence has become more than just a Netflix series—it’s a conversation starter.
NI Bureau
