Graham aims to tackle a pressing question regarding the challenges young people face in today’s society. He shared with Netflix’s website Tudum that one of their primary objectives was to explore the complexities of adolescent life, particularly the intense pressures stemming from peers, the vast landscape of the internet, and the pervasive influence of social media. This exploration seeks to shed light on how these factors contribute to shaping behavior and identity among teenagers in contemporary culture.
For Graham, it was crucial to depict Jamie as coming from a stable household. This narrative choice allows the audience to concentrate on Jamie’s personal decisions and actions, rather than attributing his behavior to his parents’ influence. By illustrating a supportive family background, Graham encourages viewers to reflect on the multifaceted reasons behind a teen’s choices, fostering a deeper understanding of the character’s journey.
In a recent interview with Rolling Stone U.K., the actor candidly expressed his thoughts, stating, “When I hear these things on the news, I know I’m not alone in blaming the parents sometimes.” This sentiment resonates with many, yet it sparked a thought in him: “What if it’s not the parents?” This reflection highlights the necessity for a broader perspective on the influences affecting young individuals, prompting discussions about accountability and understanding in parent-teen relationships.
This narrative approach also brings to the forefront a critical question: how well can a parent truly understand what their teenager is engaging with? This inquiry emphasizes the often-overlooked dynamics between parents and teens, suggesting that even in loving homes, there may be hidden struggles and secrets. It invites viewers to consider the reality of communication gaps and the complexities of modern parenting.
Graham elaborated to Tudum, saying, “We could have made a drama about gangs and knife crime or about a kid whose mother is an alcoholic or whose father is a violent abuser.” However, the creative team deliberately chose to portray a seemingly typical family facing extraordinary circumstances. They wanted the audience to engage with the narrative on a personal level, prompting thoughts like, “My God. This could be happening to us!” This focus on an ordinary family’s worst nightmare underscores the universal nature of their experience, highlighting the potential for tragedy in any household.
