Here’s a rewritten version of the news with a new headline:
Acclaimed filmmaker Sudhir Mishra has sparked debate over the success of Adolescence, the Netflix limited series that has claimed the No. 1 spot in India. Expressing his surprise on social media, Mishra questioned how the show—known for its unconventional storytelling—has resonated so strongly with Indian audiences.
Mishra’s Take on Adolescence
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Sudhir Mishra shared his thoughts on the show’s soaring popularity, writing,
“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.”
Mishra’s comments suggest that the show’s narrative structure and pacing challenge typical industry standards, yet it has still managed to captivate audiences.
Industry Response and Audience Reaction
The director, known for films like Dharavi (1992), Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi (2003), and Serious Men (2020), admitted that he was drawn to Adolescence after fellow filmmakers Hansal Mehta and Shekhar Kapur praised it.
A social media user responded, suggesting that the show’s global acclaim and positive Western reviews may have influenced Indian audiences’ perception. Mishra, however, clarified that he watched it based on recommendations from Indian filmmakers rather than external hype. He also shared that he personally enjoyed Better Call Saul even more.
About Adolescence
Directed by Philip Barantini and co-written by Stephen Graham and Jack Thorne, Adolescence is a four-episode limited series that debuted on Netflix on March 13. Starring Stephen Graham and newcomer Owen Cooper, the show follows the harrowing story of a family torn apart after 13-year-old Jamie Miller (Cooper) is arrested for the murder of a schoolmate.
The series has been widely praised for its exploration of social issues, including casual misogyny and the impact of social media on young minds. Its use of single-take cinematography has also drawn critical acclaim.
Adding to its impact, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has endorsed a Netflix initiative to stream the drama in UK secondary schools for free, ensuring that as many teenagers as possible have access to its message.
While Adolescence has sparked conversations worldwide, Sudhir Mishra’s remarks highlight a broader discussion about evolving audience preferences in India and how unconventional storytelling is breaking new ground in mainstream entertainment.
