- By Iram Hussain
- Tue, 01 Apr 2025 03:10 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Adolescence is a gripping Netflix British crime drama that has left audiences reeling. The show's innovative storytelling and cinematography have captivated viewers, plunging them into the emotional turmoil of 13-year-old Jamie, accused of murdering his classmate Katie. Through the use of tense, single-take shots, the series masterfully conveys the raw intensity of the situation as the Miller family's world begins to disintegrate under the weight of tragedy.
Powerful symbolism and an ambiguous ending add to the show's mystique, leaving viewers to grapple with the complexities of guilt, trauma and the blurred lines between truth and deception.
Meaning Of 'Sandwich' In Adolescence
In a pivotal scene from episode three, psychologist Briony played by Erin Doherty offers Jamie half her cheese and pickle sandwich during a therapy session. According to psychologist Dannielle Haig, this gesture was more than a casual act of kindness, holding deeper significance in the context of their complex therapeutic relationship, she told the news outlet Tyla.
Episode 3 of "Adolescence" marks a very huge significant impact with the phycologist.
— ✴ꓓℯศc𝗼ח❈ (@Am_bodewilson) March 27, 2025
The complexity of teenage life, social media influence, toxic masculinity, and self hatred.
The math, 80% of women are attracted to 20% men. Doesn't make the boy gay but self hated. pic.twitter.com/UvLUQsgEeR
“The half-sandwich, particularly the fact that it contains something Jamie dislikes, could be a way of testing his response,” Haig explained. “Does he push it away? Does he eat it to be polite? Does he comment on it? These reactions provide insight into his personality.”
According to psychologist Dannielle Haig, Jamie's response to Briony's sandwich offer reveals his emotional state. Accepting the sandwich without complaint may indicate a history of powerlessness and passive endurance. Conversely, refusing the sandwich could signal a desire for control in a situation where he feels powerless. This subtle moment provides insight into Jamie's psychological dynamics, highlighting his struggles with autonomy.
Erin Doherty revealed that the sandwich moment shows Briony's changing view of Jamie. As Briony lets go of her idealised image of Jamie, she's heartbroken. The sandwich symbolises this shift, representing the crumbling of her expectations and the complexity of her thoughts about the troubled teenager.
I finally get the hype of Adolescence. It's a show that will be received differently by different people of different ages.
— ann🍄 (@anythingkworthy) March 26, 2025
I personally love this scene when Jamie was having a conversation with the psychologist. It really gave me chills. pic.twitter.com/8nKpw1TmxK
