Netflix’s latest limited series “Adolescence” has taken the streaming world by storm. The series is praised for its gripping plot, innovative filming techniques, and raw portrayal of coming-of-age struggles. Lately, the show has also found itself at the center of controversy with online debates fueled by misinformation by fans and even celebrities like Elon Musk. Read more about the show inside.
A Bold New Take On The Coming-of-Age Genre
“Adolescence” follows a 13-year-old navigating love, identity, and societal pressures in the digital age. The show has gained widespread acclaim for its unfiltered and emotionally charged storytelling. From cyberbullying to gender biases, the show addresses crucial topics that has since shaken up the timeline.
One of the most groundbreaking aspects of the series is its one-shot filming style, which has been described as a technical marvel. The show’s four episodes were shot in single, continuous takes, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in television production.
According to FStoppers, the cinematography team employed advanced drone and stabilizer technology to seamlessly transition between scenes, creating an immersive and intimate viewing experience. This technique has drawn comparisons to films like 1917 and Birdman, setting “Adolescence” apart from other coming-of-age dramas.
The Race-Swap Controversy & Misinformation Online
Despite its success, “Adolescence” has been caught in an unexpected storm of online controversy. Elon Musk recently amplified a false claim that the series had “race-swapped” its lead character from White to Black, igniting a wave of backlash. The accusation has since been debunked by the show’s creators.
As reported by Blavity, co-creator Jordan R. Williams directly addressed the misinformation, calling the claim “absurd.” He emphasized that the character had always been envisioned the way he is from the show’s inception.
“This isn’t some diversity stunt,” Williams stated. “This is the story we wanted to tell, period.”
The controversy has sparked a larger conversation about the role of misinformation in shaping public perception of media. Critics argue that Musk’s amplification of false narratives contributes to harmful discourse, especially when directed at Black-led stories. The situation reflects a recurring trend where nuanced storytelling choices are unfairly scrutinized, despite their creative accolades.
A Show People Can’t Stop Talking About
Regardless of the controversy, “Adolescence” continues to gain traction, with many praising its bold direction and emotional depth. While the online debates may continue, the series has already made a lasting impact.
Be sure to catch the series for yourself on Netflix.
