Owen Cooper, a 15-year-old actor, has made a striking entrance into the entertainment industry with his debut role in the Netflix series "Adolescence." During an appearance on the morning talk show "This Morning," Cooper, who plays the lead character Jamie Miller—a 13-year-old accused of murder—revealed that acting was not initially in his "DNA." He admitted, “I wasn’t thinking of doing it," until he joined The Drama MOB, a Manchester drama school, about four years ago.
"Adolescence," a four-part crime drama, explores complex and pressing social themes, including the rise of misogyny among young men, often influenced by online ideologies. The series depicts Jamie’s troubling journey as he becomes embroiled in the legal system after the fatal stabbing of a schoolmate named Katie. Owen shared that the series has been exceptionally well-received, with over 24 million views globally, and described his experience on set, stating the unique filming technique employed—each episode is shot in one continuous take without cuts—presented a notable challenge, particularly regarding memorising his lines. His co-star, Faye Marsay, commended him for successfully memorising “40 odd pages” of dialogues, a feat she witnessed on their first shooting day.
Owen's path to acting was not a straight line; he initially aspired to be a professional football player, a passion he maintained alongside his new career. Notably, he disclosed that he still participates in football training, emphasising his ongoing commitment to both pursuits. Following "Adolescence," Owen will also be seen in an adaptation of "Wuthering Heights," where he portrays a young Heathcliffe, although he jokingly noted he currently does not share any scenes with co-star Margot Robbie.
In Australia, many viewers of "Adolescence" have found themselves drawn into conversations spurred by the series. One mother, journalist Isabelle Silberry, reflected on how the show opened her eyes to the issues facing young boys, prompting her to engage in critical discussions with her 10-year-old son. She articulated three essential questions that helped facilitate dialogue about school dynamics and emotional wellbeing, addressing the themes that resonate deeply within the series. Silberry observed her son’s reactions to these themes, explaining that discussing sensitive topics openly can elicit a greater understanding of the pressures young boys face today.
As the series continues to gain traction, it has sparked wider discourse about the growing influence of anti-feminist ideologies and incel culture, with significant commentary occurring across various platforms, including social media, families, and even governmental discussions. Graham, who features prominently in the series, has highlighted the necessity for parents to remain vigilant about the external forces affecting their children, particularly in relation to radical online communities.
The discussions surrounding "Adolescence" are reflective of a larger societal concern regarding the online experiences of youth, particularly young men, and the potential radicalisation stemming from exposure to harmful ideologies. As the series reaches audiences worldwide, the conversations it ignites in homes and communities alike are likely to continue evolving, calling attention to the implications of technological influence on the younger generation.
Source: Noah Wire Services