The British series Adolescence , which delves into the emotional aftermath of a teenage stabbing, has captivated audiences, not just with its compelling storylines but also with its unique filming technique(Image: Courtesy of Netflix)
Adolescence, which delves into the emotional aftermath of a teenage stabbing, has captivated audiences, not just with its compelling storylines but also with its unique filming technique. Shot in a single take, the series follows a distinctive method that enhances the immediacy of the scenes and pulls viewers into the action.
Fans of the show have taken to X, formerly Twitter, to express their admiration for the series, with many praising its unique one-take filming technique and stellar performances. One fan wrote: “Amazing acting man… hats off to the whole cast,” accompanied by clapping emojis, while another commented: “Watched episode 1 yesterday, wow..” A third user was equally impressed, saying: “being shot in one take is actually crazy, Netflix cooked with this one. And the acting from everyone, so so good. 10/10 man.”
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Stephen Graham, a seasoned actor who collaborated with Barantini on Boiling Point , explains that this method brings a sense of spontaneity to the acting process. “You have that kind of energy and immediacy that you get from doing a play or a live performance,” Graham shares. This approach allows the cast to engage deeply with the characters while retaining the naturalistic style typical of TV acting.
The show’s central character, Jamie Miller, played by newcomer Owen Cooper, is accused of committing the knife crime. The narrative unfolds from the perspective of Jamie’s family, friends, and the professionals involved, offering a fresh viewpoint on teen violence. Graham, who co-created and co-wrote the series with Jack Thorne, suggested shifting the narrative focus from the victim’s family to those surrounding the accused, asking audiences to consider the root causes of violence in teens. At only 15, Cooper had to master his lines and character for the one-take filming. Initially uncertain about the technique, he impressed the entire team with his preparation and natural instincts, earning high praise from Graham, who likened him to “the next Robert DeNiro.” However, as Barantini points out, meticulous planning is essential when working with such a style.
The series has left fans in awe, not just because of its gripping narrative but also due to its remarkable one-take filming style(Image: Courtesy of Netflix)
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The production team works closely with the script to ensure that the episodes flow seamlessly in one take, trimming unnecessary elements. Locations were also carefully chosen and designed to ensure smooth transitions. For example, a police station was specially constructed, and even the number of stairs was calculated to match the timing of a character’s dialogue. “The technical mastery on this show is incredible,” says Thorne, though he admits he was disappointed when one scene with a football had to be cut due to the walking time required.
Set in the north of England, the locations are all within close proximity to each other, including a family home just a three-minute drive from the police station and a warehouse converted into a DIY superstore. Barantini elaborates on the process: “We would digitally map everything out, including camera moves. Then, it’s just about being present with the actors and following the choreography.”
The production team works closely with the script to ensure that the episodes flow seamlessly in one take, trimming unnecessary elements(Image: Courtesy of Netflix)
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The rehearsals for such a complex production are extensive, with every movement planned out to ensure the crew and actors are in sync. Ashley Walters, who plays a detective investigating Jamie, explains how the choreography helps him remember his lines and timing. Erin Doherty, who portrays Jamie’s psychologist, describes the experience as “glorious.” She compares the collaboration with the camera team to a symbiotic relationship, where the movement around her felt entirely natural. She also praises Cooper’s performance, calling him one of the best actors she’s worked with, “You just watch him, thinking, how are you doing this?”
Mistakes were rare during filming, thanks to the practice sessions. In one instance, Christine Tremarco, playing Jamie’s mother, mistakenly walked into the wrong room during rehearsal but quickly corrected herself. Graham recalls the experience, saying, “None of us actually screwed up.” Drawing a parallel to soccer, Graham explains that everyone on set knows their role, and this understanding leads to an atmosphere of “good work.” Doherty agrees, emphasizing how removing the safety net of reshoots creates a space for “really exciting things to happen.” This method, though demanding, produces a rawness and authenticity that adds depth to the narrative and its characters.
