Why ‘Adolescence’ Episode 3 Will Leave You Speechless: The Best TV Episode of 2025!

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caution: potential spoilers ahead for Episode 3 of Adolescence

Step aside, The Pitt and Severance. A contender for the top TV show of 2025 has emerged unexpectedly. Netflix’s Adolescence, a four-episode miniseries by Jack Thorne and Stephen Graham, has swept viewers and critics off their feet in a remarkably short period. The series begins with Jamie Miller (played by Owen Cooper), a 13-year-old, being taken into custody as a suspect in a murder case. Over the course of the season, we witness how this event impacts the lives of his schoolmates and immediate family.

The excitement is justified – the series “Adolescence” is undeniably intense, and although it’s tough to watch at times, an outstanding cast and stunning cinematography (each episode was filmed in a single take) keep you hooked. It also offers a chilling portrayal of the growth of incel culture and how social media has contributed to its rise, without offering simple solutions for the central murder. Among the four episodes, one truly shines, presenting a compelling case as arguably the best TV episode of 2025.

What Happens in Episode 3 of ‘Adolescence’?

As “Adolescence” reaches its midpoint, the main question that’s been gripping viewers – who killed Katie Leonard? – has already been resolved. Evidence from surveillance cameras clearly shows Jamie committing the murder, making it hard to refute his guilt. Consequently, the series shifts focus, moving beyond a mere whodunit to explore the intricate social and personal factors that shaped Jamie into a monster. This ranges from negligent school settings to the influence of peer pressure amplified by social media.

In Episode 3, we find ourselves once again focusing on Jamie’s storyline. This episode primarily focuses on a discussion between Jamie and his psychologist, Briony Ariston, portrayed by Erin Doherty. The aim is to prepare a pre-trial psychological report for Jamie. However, as the session progresses, it becomes clear that Jamie, growing more evasive, is reluctant to discuss his personal relationships. On more than one occasion, his refusal escalates into violent outbursts, threatening to disrupt the session entirely.

In the end, Briony manages to persuade him to recount the last week of events prior to Katie’s murder. A classmate of Katie’s had posted a topless picture of her online, causing Jamie to ask her out. He thought she might say yes because of her supposed vulnerable social standing at the time. However, Katie responded with “I’m not that needy,” and later harassed him on Instagram, labeling him as an ‘incel’.

At approximately this stage, Jamie nearly admits to committing the murder; however, upon recognizing this, he fiercely accuses his therapist of deceit. A clearly agitated Briony then states that this will be their final session, and she secretly weeps in distress as an agitated Jamie is forcefully led back to his cell.

Why Is Episode 3 the High Point of ‘Adolescence’?

A significant aspect of the initial portion of “Adolescence” resonates strongly due to the skillful deception employed by Thorne and Graham towards the audience. Initially, viewers are led to believe that Jamie could not possibly be a murderer, given his timid personality and the humiliation he endures, which makes it nearly impossible not to empathize with him. However, it isn’t until the third episode that we come to understand that not only is Jamie capable of murder, but his guilt in Katie’s death is unequivocal.

Instead of the innocent-looking lad suggested in the first episode, Jamie intentionally challenges his therapist with a game of outdoing each other. He exhibits an alarmingly volatile temperament, yet surprisingly demonstrates a level of self-understanding. Just as it seems he’ll reveal something significant, Jamie flashes a sly grin and laughs, seemingly teasing his therapist: “Look at you, so optimistic that I’ll say something meaningful.” Owen Cooper delivers an outstanding acting performance in this role, reminiscent of Edward Norton’s groundbreaking role in Primal Fear, especially considering it’s his first time on screen.

Erin Doherty matches Cooper’s performance remarkably well, staying composed even against a terrifying adversary while simultaneously being both horrified and captivated by the circumstances that created him. The show’s extended shot technique is particularly effective here, opting for subtle, intimate close-ups rather than flashy camera movements. This allows us to fully immerse ourselves in the intense dialogue between Jamie and Briony, appreciating the exceptional acting talents on display. With no means of escape provided, we are compelled to observe these characters up close.

Previously noted, each episode of Adolescence stands out uniquely. However, Episode 3 might be the most crucial installment in the series as it aims to persuade viewers that Jamie, who we initially refused to see as a monster in the pilot, truly embodies this character. If it didn’t manage to bridge this transformation, the entire show wouldn’t hold together. Remarkably, it almost seamlessly accomplishes this task, demonstrating exceptional acting talent, impressive technical skills, and serving as the pulsating core of Adolescence throughout its heart-wrenching conclusion. Don’t forget, you can stream Adolescence on Netflix.

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2025-03-23 00:34