Netflix's gripping new crime drama, 'Adolescence,' has taken the world by storm since its debut last week, amassing over 24 million views in just days. This four-part British series delves into the harrowing aftermath of the murder of a teenage girl named Katie, with a 13-year-old classmate, Jamie (Owen Cooper), facing the terrifying allegations.

What makes 'Adolescence' unforgettable not only is its bold exploration of how social media and misogynistic influences affect young boys, but also its groundbreaking cinematography that employs a stunning one-shot filming technique. Critics and fans alike have praised the show’s technical prowess, dubbing it "flawless."

Mastering the One-Shot Technique

Each episode of 'Adolescence' was filmed using a single continuous take with just one camera, an ambitious choice that resulted in multiple restarts and retakes during production. Episode 4 alone required an astounding 16 takes! Over the course of five intense shooting days, the cast endured grueling schedules, rehearsing segments daily, gradually incorporating more material until they were performing complete run-throughs.

The pressure of this format inevitably led to some unexpected moments on camera, such as during a tense scene in Episode 3 when newcomer Owen Cooper yawns, prompting his co-star Erin Doherty, portraying psychologist Briony Ariston, to quip, "Am I boring you?" This spontaneous exchange was not scripted, showcasing the organic reactions that are a hallmark of the series.

Incredible Attention to Detail

The production demonstrated incredible creativity in achieving key moments—like the impressive door-breaching scenes and the climactic moment featuring Jamie's father (Stephen Graham) vandalizing his own van to conceal a hate message. Each door they smashed was custom-fitted by a PVC specialist to ensure continuity across takes, totaling twelve doors for the shoot! Similarly, for the paint scene, a special concoction was designed to be washed off between takes without impacting filming.

Aerial Techniques and Innovative Solutions

Episode 2 features a breathtaking drone shot that follows characters in a heart-pounding chase, transporting the audience seamlessly through the emotional landscape of the story. The Director of Photography, Matthew Lewis, creatively used a drone to capture this ethereal moment, allowing the camera to ‘float’ independently and add a dynamic element to the narrative.

"When the camera can move freely, it brings a different perception to the audience, making it feel less grounded and more otherworldly," Lewis explained. The fusion of technology with storytelling elevated the series beyond conventional crime dramas, offering viewers a unique and immersive experience.

Owen Cooper: A Star Is Born

Remarkably, 'Adolescence' marks Owen Cooper's first acting role, and his chilling portrayal of Jamie has garnered unanimous critical acclaim. He was discovered among hundreds of hopefuls, standing out during the audition process with a self-taped improv scene. Cooper’s ability to evoke complex emotions has left audiences divided—simultaneously feeling sympathy for the troubled teen and fear of his volatile character.

Looking back at his performance, Cooper reflects positively on the challenge of shooting intense scenes in a single take: "If we had a choice, I think we'd both go one take," he said during an interview with Doherty, emphasizing how it captures raw emotions realistically.

Conclusion: Don't Miss Out on 'Adolescence'

'Adolescence' is shaking up the genre and redefining what is possible in television production. With its captivating storylines, masterful acting, and innovative filming techniques, this series is not just a watch; it's an experience that should not be missed. Tune in to discover for yourself the brilliance of this Netflix gem!