Episode #1.1

The outstanding storyline full of intrigue and mystery made the episode grab all my attention from the first minutes and kept the suspense until the end. You may have already known whether he did or not but you wouldn't be sure until the very end.

The fact that it was shot in a single sequence shot made the whole police process and interrogation even more immersive. And every scene transition felt so organic that I feel like no moment was wasted.

The performances of all the cast is very good, but I highlight Stephen Graham's performance, his look and body language in 2 specific scenes were splendid.

I'm in.

This is the best show of 2025, so far. Usually I get bored 10 minutes in with shows if I'm being honest but this was so engaging, compelling, and, based on the 'one-shot' filming style of this show, almost immersive. Super captivating, super interesting, super good acting, SUPER GOOD!! Totally recommend for anyone. Nothing is too drawn out or over explained, everyone apart of this seems to have experience telling stories. Especially as a non British person, i felt culturally immersed, learning more about British schooling and school-kid-culture. Love, love, love, love!! Watch now or else!!! (you miss out on good television)

The idea for Adolescence came from actor Stephen Graham after he heard about a young schoolgirl being stabbed.

He wanted to do something to tackle knife crime among young people.

Enlisting director Philip Barantini with whom he made the one shot film Boiling Point.

The same technique is used again but this time, the one shot drama is more adventurous. In Boiling Point it was confined to one location. Here the action is set in several places but there are no invisible cuts.

The story begins with an early morning raid at a house led by DI Luke Bascombe (Ashley Walters.)

The police arrest 14 year old Jamie Miller (Owen Cooper.) The rest of the family are in shock and confusion as the police break down the door.

Jamie is taken down the police station by DI Bascombe. Followed by Jamie's family led by his dad Eddie (Stephen Graham) who sits in the police station interview as the appropriate adult.

Eddie knows it is something serious but his son pleads his innocence. Whatever happened is nothing to do with him.

Jamie's duty solicitor knows that a young girl was stabbed and it is a serious charge that Jamie is facing. He advises Jamie to say 'no comment' to the questioning.

The first episode in outline is a police procedural but becomes much more as the truth emerges as to the events of what occured the night before.

Although the one shot episode is a gimmick. The lighting is too dark for example. It works well here as it gives the fly on the wall feel to the proceedings.

More importantly it allows the actors to shine. For them it might as well be a stage play. One slip up and the episode had to be recorded again from the start or wait for the next complete take later on.

Owen Cooper gives an astonishing performance in his first major role.

Absolutely groundbreaking!

Adolescence Episode 1 is nothing short of a cinematic masterpiece. The entire episode was filmed with a single camera in one continuous shot - a feat that's not only technically impressive but emotionally captivating. The seamless flow of the camera creates an intense sense of immersion, pulling you directly into the raw, unfiltered reality of the characters lives.

The performances are so authentic that you almost forget you're watching fiction. The actors ability to maintain such natural, emotionally charged energy without a single cut is remarkable. The direction is bold and masterful, making every movement and piece of dialogue feel organic and intentional.

The single-shot approach adds a layer of intimacy and urgency that perfectly mirrors the chaos and vulnerability of adolescence itself. Every moment feels immediate and real, heightening the emotional stakes and drawing you into the characters struggles and triumphs.

This isn't just good television - it's an artistic achievement. Episode 1 of Adolescence sets the bar incredibly high and leaves you eager for more. A must-watch for anyone who appreciates bold storytelling and impeccable craftsmanship.

The film had a really excellent introduction, setting the tone perfectly with a gripping and intense opening sequence. It showcased a lot of thrilling scenes, which is exactly what I enjoy, keeping me on the edge of my seat from the start. What made it even more compelling was that it defied my expectations-I went in thinking it would follow a familiar formula, but it surprised me in the best way possible. I usually watch Harlan Coben films and read his books, so I'm used to intricate plots and suspenseful storytelling, but this introduction was on another level. The cinematography, pacing, and music all worked together seamlessly to create an atmosphere of mystery and excitement, making it clear that I was in for a rollercoaster of a story.