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Netflix’s ‘Adolescence’ Sets Streaming Records in the U.K.
The recent addition to Netflix’s crime drama lineup, Adolescence, has quickly captured the attention of viewers, leading to record-breaking viewing figures. As of now, the inaugural episode stands as the most-watched streaming television show in the U.K. within a single week, securing its position at the pinnacle of British viewing charts. The sustained interest across its subsequent four episodes underlines the show’s compelling narrative and gripping portrayal of a young boy’s decision to commit murder.
According to reports from Deadline and the BBC, Adolescence has eclipsed the viewership records previously held by iconic BBC programs such as The Apprentice and Death in Paradise. The viewing statistics released by the ratings agency Barb reveal that the series’ premiere episode attracted around 6.5 million viewers in its first week alone, achieving this milestone just three days after its release on March 13, during the period from March 10 to March 16.
Following its debut, Adolescence maintained its dominance over BBC’s flagship shows. The second episode attracted 5.9 million viewers, relegating The Apprentice and Death in Paradise to third and fourth places, respectively. Episodes three and four recorded viewership figures of 5.1 million and 4.6 million, respectively. In terms of Netflix’s own history, the success of Adolescence was marked by its surpassing of the prior record held by Fool Me Once, which had drawn 6.3 million views in a single week in January the previous year. Starring Stephen Graham alongside first-time actor Owen Cooper, the drama has proven to be more popular in the U.K. than other recent successes such as The Gentlemen and Baby Reindeer.
In the broader context of Netflix’s global TV show rankings, Adolescence outpaces popular titles like Running Point, Robert De Niro’s miniseries Zero Day, and others such as Toxic Town, Beauty in Black, and American Murder: Gabby Petito.
‘Adolescence’: A Relevant and Innovative Narrative
The storyline of Adolescence follows 13-year-old Jamie Miller, portrayed by Owen Cooper, who is apprehended for a murder he claims he did not commit. The opening scenes depict a police raid on his family’s home, leading to his detention and interrogation alongside his father. Despite Jamie’s steadfast claims of innocence, the unfolding plot thickens as the second episode introduces the possibility of other individuals being implicated in the murder of a young girl. By episode three, the narrative becomes clearer, while the fourth installment deals with the repercussions of Jamie’s actions and the Miller family’s struggle to cope with the life-altering event. Notably, the series is filmed in real-time, with each segment executed in a single continuous take.
Though it is not based on a specific true event, Adolescence resonates with audiences through its authentic and emotive storytelling. The series delves into significant issues such as bullying, the pervasive impact of social media, and the complexities of teenage masculinity from the perspective of a vulnerable adolescent. The critical response has been overwhelmingly positive, with the show boasting a remarkable 99% rating on Rotten Tomatoes from critics based on 76 reviews. The audience score, while lower, still reflects a favorable perception at 72%.
Source
movieweb.com