Second Season of the Acclaimed Netflix Series "Adolescence" Under Discussion
The universe of "Adolescence" is to be further expanded
Following the sensational success of the British drama series "Adolescence" on Netflix, there are increasing signs of a possible second season. According to a report by Deadline, the production company Plan B Entertainment, founded by Brad Pitt, is in initial talks with director Philip Barantini about a continuation of the series.
The co-presidents of Plan B, Dede Gardner and Jeremy Kleiner, spoke publicly for the first time since the start of the series and indicated that they want to expand the universe of "Adolescence" – without losing sight of the core of the story.
Audience of Millions and Global Relevance
Since its release on March 13, "Adolescence" has already been streamed over 114.5 million times and is currently the fourth most popular English-language series on Netflix. The series tells the harrowing story of a 13-year-old boy, played by Owen Cooper, who is accused of stabbing a classmate to death – a crime linked to his drift into toxic online male communities.
The series not only triggered a viral trend on social media – including reaction videos from mothers on TikTok – but also led to political discussions in the UK. Prime Minister Keir Starmer said that the series had "hit him hard".
One-Take and No Excuses
A special feature of the series is director Philip Barantinis' style of shooting episodes in a single take – a cinematic technique that already caused a stir in his previous work "Boiling Point". According to Gardner, this form of directing is not a gimmick, but anchored in the content:
"So our theory was, what would happen if you couldn't look away? And will that make the subject embed in you in a different way? That was a thrilling thing."
Hollywood star Brad Pitt himself was also deeply involved in the project from the very beginning. He took part in pitch meetings with Amazon, which was originally intended as the first platform for "Adolescence", and was particularly impressed by Jack Thorne's pilot script. However, after Amazon did not pursue the project, Plan B not only found a new partner in Netflix, but also enthusiastic support. Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos described the series as "personally touching" and praised it publicly.
Social Aspiration Meets Cinematic Ambition
Plan B Entertainment is known for socially relevant productions such as "She Said" (about the #MeToo movement) and "Nickel Boys" (about institutional racism). In the case of "Adolescence", too, this was not a pure calculation, says Gardner, but rather a natural expression of the issues that move the team. "Complicity" is a central motif of their work. Jeremy Kleiner also emphasized the international importance of British television:
"Look at the incredible power of UK television. There's a way things are made that you know, we want to do more of, for sure. Not just in the UK but across Europe."
What Happens Next?
Plans for a second season have not yet been officially confirmed. But the team around Plan B, Barantini, Thorne and lead actor Stephen Graham seem determined to continue telling the story – with the aim of preserving the emotional and social core of the series while opening up new perspectives.
Why "Adolescence" is So Celebrated: A Series Hits the Nerve of the Times
"Adolescence", the British Netflix series, has become a global success in a very short space of time. The reviews are overwhelming and the audience is enthusiastic. But what exactly makes it so successful? A look at the core elements reveals why this series gets so deeply under the skin.
An Explosive Topic With Social Relevance
The focus is on a 13-year-old boy who is accused of stabbing a classmate to death. The series shows how he slips into the dark corners of the internet – especially toxic masculinity cultures. This development is frighteningly realistic and addresses an issue that concerns many parents, educators and politicians. The series makes visible what often happens in secret: the silent radicalization of young people.
One-Take Production Ensures Emotional Intensity
A cinematic trademark of the series is director Philip Barantini's one-take method. Each episode is shot in a single, uninterrupted take. This stylistic device creates an extraordinary closeness and intensity – viewers cannot look away, and neither can the characters. This unembellished portrayal intensifies the emotional impact of the plot enormously.
Convincing Acting
Stephen Graham, known from "Boiling Point", not only plays a part, but was also involved in the development of the series. Up-and-coming talent Owen Cooper shines alongside him in the lead role. His portrayal of the internally torn boy is so haunting that it will stay with you for a long time. The acting performances are authentic, raw and credible – another success factor.
Courage for Social Confrontation
"Adolescence" was produced by Brad Pitt's company Plan B Entertainment, which repeatedly tackles socially controversial topics. As with "She Said" or "The Nickel Boys", the focus is not just on the story, but on a deeper message. In the UK, the series has even triggered political discussions.
Conclusion: Not a Series Like Any Other
"Adolescence" is uncomfortable, challenging and deeply moving. It combines a highly topical subject with cinematic innovation and excellent acting. Instead of simple entertainment, it offers an intense examination of reality – and that is precisely what makes it so special.