Sudhir Mishra Questions Popularity of Netflix’s Adolescence
Filmmaker Sudhir Mishra has sparked debate by questioning Indian audiences’ admiration for the Netflix series Adolescence.
The veteran director expressed surprise at the show’s number-one ranking on the streaming platform, arguing that it defies traditional storytelling norms.
Mishra’s Comments on Adolescence
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Mishra shared his thoughts on the growing popularity of Adolescence in India.
He wrote, “How come Adolescence is the No. 1 show on Netflix India? All conventional wisdom is against it. Indians are not supposed to like slow burners. It violates every rule taught by bad scriptwriting schools. It spirals down instead of soaring up. It’s the best news in years.”
Influences Behind His Views
Mishra, known for films like Dharavi (1992), Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi (2003), Chameli (2004), and Serious Men (2020), revealed that he was influenced by fellow filmmakers Hansal Mehta and Shekhar Kapur, whose glowing reviews persuaded him to watch the show.
Debate Over Western Influence
Responding to a social media user’s comment that Adolescence benefited from critical acclaim abroad, Mishra clarified, “No, we didn’t [watch it because of Western reviews]. I saw it because @mehtahansal and @shekharkapur were raving about it. In fact, it’s one of those rare shows which was loved simultaneously across the Netflix universe. By the way, I liked Better Call Saul even more.”
About Adolescence
Adolescence is a four-part limited series directed by Philip Barantini, starring Stephen Graham and newcomer Owen Cooper. Since its release on Netflix on March 13, the show has garnered widespread acclaim and claimed the No. 1 spot globally.
Co-created and written by Stephen Graham and Jack Thorne, the series follows the story of a family torn apart when 13-year-old Jamie Miller (played by Owen Cooper) is arrested for the murder of a schoolmate.
The show delves into themes of casual misogyny and the impact of social media on today’s youth. One of its unique aspects is its cinematography—each scene is shot in a single take, a technique that has been widely praised.
Political Backing for Adolescence
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has also endorsed an initiative by Netflix to stream the drama series for free in secondary schools across the UK, ensuring that as many students as possible can watch it.
Reactions to Mishra’s Remarks
Mishra’s comments have fueled discussions about evolving viewer preferences in India and the kind of content that resonates with local audiences.
While some agree with his critique, others see Adolescence as a sign of changing tastes in Indian entertainment consumption.
Mishra Clarifies His Stance
The filmmaker stirred further discussion on X after some misinterpreted his comments as criticism of the show. He later clarified his sarcastic tone and intention, stating, “Irony is lost on a lot of people. Mera kya hoga kaliya.”
When questioned by a user about his statement that “Indians are not supposed to like slow burners,” Mishra explained, “I AM NOT REPRIMANDING the Indian audience. I am saying that people (including the creative industry) think that Indians don’t like it. It’s a sarcastic, tangential way of talking. Lucknow ka hoon, kuchh kuchh. Andaz thoda tanziya hai (I’m from Lucknow, so there’s a bit of sarcasm in my style).”
Another user questioned his generalization, to which he responded, “It’s a way of saying. They are not supposed to, but they are loving it. The generalization is that they don’t like it. I am saying don’t underestimate the audience.”
Bollywood Celebrities Join the Conversation
Meanwhile, Adolescence continues to be a hot topic globally. From its single-take cinematography and performances to its script, the show has been widely lauded, including by Bollywood celebrities such as Alia Bhatt, Karan Johar, and Parineeti Chopra.
