Filmmaker Sudhir Mishra has sparked debate with his critique of 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.
Sudhir Mishra on ‘Adolescence’ No 1 Netflix India
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Mishra shared his views 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 script writing schools. It spirals down instead of soaring up. It’s the best news in years.”
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 of taught by bad script writing schools . It spirals down instead of soaring up . It’s the best news in years.
— Sudhir Mishra (@IAmSudhirMishra) April 1, 2025
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.
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.
The 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.
Mishra’s remarks 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.