Even though these 3 series primarily focus on teen protagonists, there’s plenty to enjoy for all ages
SEX EDUCATION
An awkward teen (Asa Butterfield) struggles to cope with his fast-approaching puberty. It also happens that his mom (Gillian Anderson) is a sex therapist. To make the title even more appropriate, he starts a sideline business at school dispensing advice to the students. Toss in a fabulously-wardrobed gay best friend, the hot smart girl who causes romantic complications and some other unique characters and you have an interesting collection of personalities. Even though this is primarily set in the adolescent world, the multifaceted relationships and enjoyably-handled subject matter transcend that audience to appeal to anyone who ever lived thru adolescent years. Smart and sweet. (Two seasons with eight 30-minute episodes each on Netflix)
(4.5 / 5)
ELITE
Fans of Riverdale will find parallels in this Spanish series. They both take place in high school where misdeeds have happened and both star actors who are obviously way beyond their teen years. There are differences too. These students are all attractive and attend a fancy private school populated by rich kids with great fashion sense. The less “elite” are poorer members of the community who have earned scholarships. Needless to say, class struggle plays a pertinent part. However, since this is Spanish, sex gets plenty of attention (including more same-sex encounters). As is often the case, the 3rd season tends to lose some of its edge, but it’s still fun to see who will hook up and who will be found guilty. (Dubbed in English. Three seasons with 8 one-hour episodes on Netflix)
(3.5 / 5)
THE END OF THE F*** ING WORLD
Alex Lawther plays a 17-year-old who, after killing animals as a hobby, decides to murder a somewhat obnoxious girl in his class (Jessica Barden). They end up running away together with him looking for the right opportunity to kill her and her looking to find her father. What ensues is a somewhat mean-spirited adventure that takes them in several directions, literally and figuratively. The tone constantly varies from funny to dark with sufficient clever writing and engaging performances to keep it interesting. The second season may not have had the edge of the first and is more limited in scope. (2 seasons of eight 30-minute episodes on Netflix, Amazon, Youtube and other platforms)
(4 / 5)