’13 Reasons Why’ Broke A Netflix Record, Introducing Your Next Netflix Binge

Source: YouTube / Netflix

a teen driven show.  However, it addresses some serious issues such as bullying and suicide.  When I first watched the first few minutes, I thought I would not relate giving the high school setting.  But as a “grown-up” I was intrigued by the story line as this is something we can all relate to regardless of our age.

The story is Based on the 2007 novel by Jay Asher, the series begins with the revelation that its central character Hannah Baker (Katherine Langford) has committed suicide. She has left behind a series of 13 cassette tapes explaining how different classmates who bullied, betrayed, and even sexually assaulted her left her feeling so empty she decided to end her life.

The story is about Hannah Baker who committed suicide and recorded tapes (yes literal tapes – feeling old yet), as she sent them to people who she felt should hear them (we don’t want to spoil the plot).   Clay currently has the tapes and appears to be one of the only people who truly cared about Hannah and its evident to how he is reacting to the whole experience.

It’s truly a compelling story if you’re able to overcome some of the high school stereotypes (insert typical Jock), but as the story unfolds as the tapes reveal why she ultimately killed herself.  The character development is on point as not all the players are exactly what they seem and the lines get blurred as the story unfolds.

We all feel for Hannah throughout the story as she appears to be an unreliable narrator at times, which has you second guessing her version from the grave.  There are tons of twists and turns and although the plot is a slow build, you are glued to the TV as you will find yourself watching this straight through the night.  The acting is incredible across the board which makes it even more believable as it covers an extremely difficult and sensitive topic.

The Reviews Have Been Spectacular:

9.1 / 10 for IMDB

76% for Metacritic

90% for Rotten Tomatoes

BEWARE, the review contains a SPOILER ALERT:

Source: YouTube / Netflix

It’s simply more than just a high school drama.

According to a recent Forbes article covering ’13 Reasons Why‘:

“Not only are the characters complex and sympathetic, the story goes beyond simple teen drama. This is a suicide story, but it’s also a story about a community affected by loss. Parents, teachers, businesses. It’s a story that grown-ups can relate to, not just a story directed at teenagers. At the same time, as someone who remembers being a teenager very well I think the show will really speak to kids that age or about that age. And I think that for all its flaws (see below) that it will ultimately be a really profound and important TV show for many young people.”- Erik Cain of Forbes.

Revenge appears to be Hannah’s motive as the story unfolds, but the story is not that straightforward, which lends itself as being another reason to watch it.  The people on the tapes are forced to address theirs actions as the responses run the gamut from regret to anger to even violence.  Bullying has been a topic that has been brought to light over the past few years, however, ’13 Reasons’ really opens your eyes on what may constitute bullying.  There is a lot more to it, but you will have to watch it and find out.  Further, bullying can lead to some serious consequences as with the case of Hannah Baker.  Who was responsible for Hannah’s death?  How will Clay react to after to completely listening to the tapes, there is only one way to find out…  Watch it on Netflix, but be sure not do it one sitting as i was tempted to do so (I did it 3 sittings).

Although ’13 Reasons’ is a fictional drama, suicide is a very serious issue: If you or someone you know needs help, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK(8255) or visit their website.