Adolescence: A One-Shot TV Series on Netflix

Netflix is set to release a unique TV series titled Adolescence, notable for its innovative one-shot filming technique. Directed by Philip Barantini, known for Boiling Point, and written by Jack Thorne, the series explores the complexities of a family caught in the aftermath of a shocking crime.

The Story

Adolescence centers on 13-year-old Jamie Miller, played by Owen Cooper, who is arrested for the murder of a teenage girl from his school. The series delves into the repercussions this event has on his family, particularly his father, Eddie Miller, portrayed by Stephen Graham. Ashley Walters appears as Detective Inspector Luke Bascombe, and Erin Doherty plays Briony Ariston, the clinical psychologist assigned to Jamie’s case.

The official synopsis states that each episode unfolds in real time, immersing viewers in the unfolding drama.

The One-Shot Technique

Philip Barantini employs the one-shot technique, similar to his work in the film Boiling Point. This method involves filming each episode in one continuous take, without cuts, providing a raw and immediate viewing experience. Jack Thorne, who wrote the series, described it as one of the most challenging projects he has undertaken due to the constraints of the single-shot format.

Barantini explained that unlike Boiling Point, where the location informed the script, Adolescence required him to find locations that fit Thorne’s script. The production involved extensive preparation, including technical practices and rehearsals with approximately 320 extras. During the final week of production, the team filmed two takes per day, resulting in ten takes to choose from.

Thorne was heavily involved on set, often rewriting scenes between takes to adapt to the limitations and possibilities of the one-shot approach. He noted that certain scenes, such as car chases, required creative solutions to work within the single-take format. One example was the use of drones to simulate camera movement over traffic lights, creating a dynamic and emotionally impactful scene.

The Impact of the Technique

Both Thorne and Barantini emphasize that the one-shot style enhances the story’s emotional impact. Thorne believes that the unblinking camera allows for a certain rawness and honesty, enabling a more complex narrative about rage and difficult issues. The inability to cut away forces the audience to remain present and engaged with the characters’ experiences.

Barantini mentioned that he is using the technique in smaller doses in some scenes for the upcoming Enola Holmes 3, which is also penned by Thorne. He believes that it can make people sit up and pay attention.

Production Details

Adolescence is executive produced by Mark Herbert and Emily Feller for Warp Films, Graham and Hannah Walters for Matriarch Productions, Thorne for One Shoe Films, Barantini for It’s All Made Up Productions, and Brad Pitt, Jeremy Kleiner, Dede Gardner, and Nina Wolarsky for Plan B Entertainment.

Carina Sposato (Plan B Entertainment), Peter Balm, and Niall Shamma (Warp Films) serve as co-executive producers. The producer is Jo Johnson.

Release Information

Adolescence premiered on Netflix on March 13.