Netflix’s latest limited series, Adolescence, has taken the streaming world by storm, and acclaimed Indian filmmaker Hansal Mehta is among its most vocal admirers. The four-part psychological drama, co-created by Jack Thorne and Stephen Graham, premiered on March 13 and has already garnered widespread praise for its gripping exploration of murder, toxic masculinity, and the complexities of fractured families. Mehta recently shared an emotional and introspective review of the series, calling it an “absolute banger” that left him “devastated” and urging it to sweep the awards season.
Netflix’s Adolescence leaves Hansal Mehta “Terrified, concerned, and introspective”: “Just give it every award this season already”
In a heartfelt post on X, Mehta expressed how Adolescence—particularly its final two episodes, Episodes 3 and 4—transcended the boundaries of traditional storytelling. “They leave an impact beyond the procedural, outside any semblance of mystery, and beyond any genre-defined cliché,” he wrote. The series, which follows a family unraveling after their 13-year-old son is accused of murdering a classmate, struck a deep chord with Mehta on multiple levels—as a parent, a filmmaker, and a human being.
A Parent’s Terror and a Filmmaker’s Awe
For Mehta, Adolescence was more than just a show; it was a visceral experience. “As a parent, it left me terrified, concerned, and introspective—all at once and for a long time to come,” he shared. The series’ raw portrayal of familial turmoil and the psychological weight of its themes resonated deeply, prompting him to reflect on his own role as a father. “I wanted to hug my kids. To tell them it’s alright. To tell myself I can do better,” he added, highlighting the show’s ability to evoke empathy and self-examination.
As a filmmaker, Mehta couldn’t help but marvel at the craft behind Adolescence. He praised the entire team—writers, directors, actors, and even the unsung heroes like grips, gaffers, and sparks—for creating what he described as a “truly an achievement.” “It made me look up in awe at the creators of this show,” he noted, admitting that the series left him feeling “envious, nervous, and energized.” This blend of admiration and inspiration underscores the show’s technical and emotional brilliance, qualities Mehta believes set a new benchmark for storytelling.
Stephen Graham’s Career-Defining Performance
Mehta reserved special praise for Stephen Graham, who stars as Eddie Miller, a father grappling with guilt and grief in the wake of his son’s arrest. Calling it “perhaps the most defining performance of his career,” Mehta joined critics and fans in lauding Graham’s raw and authentic portrayal. Graham, who also co-created the series with Thorne, drew inspiration from real-life incidents, including a news story about a young boy allegedly committing a violent act. “It shocked me,” Graham told Netflix’s Tudum. “I was thinking, ‘What’s going on?’” That real-world grounding shines through in his performance, making Eddie’s spiral both heartbreaking and unforgettable.
Why Adolescence Deserves Every Award
Mehta didn’t hold back in his endorsement, declaring, “Just give it every award this season already.” The series’ ability to weave complex themes—misogyny, bullying, crime, and family failure—into a universal narrative has earned it rave reviews from both audiences and critics. Its innovative execution, including near-hour-long single-shot episodes, amplifies its impact, immersing viewers in the tension and chaos of its world. For Mehta, Adolescence isn’t just a procedural; it’s a profound exploration of humanity that “scares you, shakes you up, and keeps you riveted.”
A Call for Bold Storytelling
In a separate post, he lamented that a show like Adolescence might be deemed “too niche” for commissioning in India, suggesting a need for bolder, more nuanced narratives in the industry. His response to Adolescence reflects both a personal connection and a professional aspiration, urging creators to push boundaries and trust audiences with complex stories.
Speaking of Adolescence, its ensemble cast includes Faye Marsay, Matt Lewis, and Ashley Walters and is directed by Philip Barantini.
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