Sudhir Mishra Questions Netflix India’s Top Spot for ‘Adolescence’
Renowned filmmaker Sudhir Mishra has openly critiqued the widespread popularity of the trending Netflix miniseries ‘Adolescence’, raising doubts about its No.1 ranking in India and the local audience’s fascination with it. Taking to X (previously Twitter), Mishra expressed his astonishment at the show’s immense success, despite its unconventional narrative style.
Sharing his perspective, Sudhir Mishra stated: “How is Adolescence the No.1 show on Netflix India? It defies all conventional norms. Indian audiences supposedly dislike slow-paced narratives. It contradicts every principle taught by subpar scriptwriting schools. Instead of escalating, it spirals downward. This is the best news in years.”
Mishra’s Take on the Show’s Triumph
Mishra, celebrated for films such as Dharavi (1992), Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi (2003), Chameli (2004), and Serious Men (2020), admitted that he was encouraged to watch the series after directors Hansal Mehta and Shekhar Kapur showered it with high praise.
A social media user suggested that the series’ international buzz and stellar Western reviews may have shaped its perception among Indian viewers:
“It became the most discussed show globally and received glowing feedback from Western critics. As a result, we were already predisposed to believe it was exceptional. It is indeed a well-crafted show, but as you mentioned, without this preconception, we might have struggled to sit through it.”
Responding to this, Sudhir Mishra clarified: “No, that’s not the case. I watched it because @mehtahansal and @shekharkapur were raving about it. In fact, it’s one of those rare series that garnered admiration across the entire Netflix audience simultaneously. By the way, I enjoyed Better Call Saul even more.”
About ‘Adolescence’
‘Adolescence’ is a four-episode limited series, distinguished by its unique single continuous take cinematography. The show features Stephen Graham and rising talent Owen Cooper, earning widespread acclaim since its debut. Directed by Philip Barantini, the Netflix drama premiered on March 13, 2025, and has consistently held the No.1 position in India, igniting conversations across social media.
While the series has polarized opinions, its innovative storytelling and cinematographic techniques have undoubtedly cemented its status as one of the most talked-about productions of the year.
The Impact of ‘Adolescence’ on Indian Viewers
The success of ‘Adolescence’ in India is particularly intriguing because it challenges traditional audience preferences. Indian viewers have historically gravitated toward fast-paced dramas, high-energy thrillers, and emotionally charged narratives. Yet, this experimental series, which thrives on its slow-burning intensity and minimalist storytelling, has managed to captivate audiences in unexpected ways.
One possible reason for its success is the growing appreciation for unconventional storytelling among Indian audiences. With exposure to international content through streaming platforms, Indian viewers are becoming more receptive to narratives that break away from conventional structures. Shows like Better Call Saul, Mindhunter, and The Crown have already paved the way for a more nuanced appreciation of slow-burn storytelling.
Another factor could be the influence of social media and critical acclaim. When a show garners universal praise from film critics, cinephiles, and global audiences, it often piques curiosity. People are more inclined to watch something when they see others discussing it passionately online. The ‘fear of missing out’ (FOMO) effect might have played a role in driving Indian viewers toward ‘Adolescence’ despite its unorthodox approach.
The Power of Social Media in Driving Popularity
The role of social media in determining the success of entertainment content cannot be understated. In recent years, platforms like X, Instagram, and Reddit have become breeding grounds for discussions, reviews, and debates about films and TV shows. The buzz surrounding ‘Adolescence’ was amplified by positive word-of-mouth, with influential filmmakers like Hansal Mehta and Shekhar Kapur vouching for its brilliance.
Such endorsements not only spark curiosity but also create a sense of validation for those who might be hesitant to watch a show that deviates from mainstream storytelling norms. Furthermore, when international critics hail a series as groundbreaking, it adds an extra layer of intrigue, making audiences want to see what the hype is all about.
A Shift in Viewer Preferences?
The popularity of ‘Adolescence’ could signal a larger shift in Indian viewer preferences. While mainstream Bollywood continues to dominate the entertainment industry, there has been a growing appetite for alternative storytelling, particularly among younger audiences. The rise of digital platforms has enabled access to diverse content, allowing audiences to experiment with different genres and styles.
In the past, experimental films and shows struggled to find mainstream acceptance in India. However, the success of movies like Tumbbad, Andhadhun, and Sir suggests that Indian audiences are warming up to stories that challenge traditional cinematic norms. ‘Adolescence’ fits into this emerging trend, offering a narrative that prioritizes mood, character depth, and cinematography over dramatic twists and turns.
Sudhir Mishra’s reaction to ‘Adolescence’ underscores an important conversation about how Indian audiences engage with storytelling. While the show’s ranking as No.1 on Netflix India may come as a surprise to some, it highlights a broader shift toward appreciating unconventional narratives.
The show’s success is a testament to the power of global storytelling, the influence of critical acclaim, and the impact of social media in shaping audience perceptions. Whether ‘Adolescence’ will lead to more such experimental content finding mainstream success in India remains to be seen. However, for now, its dominance on the charts signifies that Indian viewers are ready to embrace narratives that challenge conventional storytelling norms.
