Netflix has a reputation for touting its latest productions as world-conquering hits. Yet, the streaming giant might actually be onto something with its latest release, “Adolescence.” You’ve probably heard your friends mentioning it, or perhaps you’ve caught a glimpse of the fervor online. And if you haven’t, maybe it’s time to dive in. According to a report from Variety, this gripping limited series has set new records, garnering more viewers in its initial two weeks than any other shows in Netflix’s illustrious library—a jaw-dropping feat considering it achieved this milestone in just 11 days.
The streaming giant released viewership figures confirming that “Adolescence” pulled in an astounding 42 million viewers and 161 million hours of viewing time in its second week. That brings its total audience to 66.3 million in just two weeks. Even Netflix seems a bit taken aback, as they acknowledge this series has outshone other significant, often more financially demanding projects. For some perspective, compare it with Shonda Rhimes’ “The Residence,” which only attracted 6.4 million viewers over the same time frame.
What’s the allure of “Adolescence,” you ask? Well, the series debuted on Netflix on March 13, spinning an intricate narrative around Jamie, a 13-year-old boy at the center of a murder mystery involving a classmate. The story delves deep into pertinent societal issues, like the impact of misogynistic influencer content on young, impressionable minds—imagine Andrew Tate as part of your adolescence guidebook—and the profound effects of social media on developing brains. Adding to its uniqueness, all four episodes are crafted as a single, unbroken shot, reminiscent of the style seen in “1917.” This creative choice intensifies the emotional grip of the series, making viewers feel as though they’re part of the traumatic experience unfolding before them. In his review for The A.V. Club, Brian Tallerico beautifully encapsulates this by highlighting how the storytelling style immerses audiences, making them participants in the on-screen chaos.
Notably, critics and audiences alike are swooning over the series’ ability to maintain its hold without relying on conventional plot twists. It’s neither the rare uncut series nor the emotionally charged plot alone that has captivated viewers—it’s the seamless blend of both. The narrative unfolds like an intense theatrical play, never offering viewers a reprieve, so you’re left on edge, wondering about the unfolding drama.
Closing Credits
What does the future hold for “Adolescence”? Given its early success, one might speculate about potential extensions or spin-offs. However, the beauty is in its limited nature. As it stands, it’s made a massive cultural and critical impact, setting a new benchmark for future Netflix series. Keep your eyes peeled, though. You never know what Netflix will serve up next, but it’s undoubtedly living up to its mantra of being a content powerhouse with “Adolescence.” Mark April 1 as a date to remember—the day Netflix announced these staggering numbers, but no fooling, this is only the beginning of a long list of accolades for “Adolescence.”
