The Netflix drama ‘Heartstopper’ has recently released series 3. As someone who has been a fan of Alice Oseman’s comics for years, it has been a pleasure to see the storylines go from page to screen. Series 1 and 2 explored the relationship between Nick and Charlie, as well as other characters within their friendship group.
This article will review the third season; therefore, spoilers may be mentioned!
First of all, Oseman’s accuracy at portraying the normal life of teenagers is incredible to see. For example, seeing young people navigate school and relationships, such as seeing them achieve their GCSE results. The character of Elle attends an art college and the students in sixth form are looking at university choices for the future. As a young person who has navigated the education system, it is rare that the media highlights school and studying in a positive light. Therefore, seeing young people considering university, gap years, GCSEs and A Levels was a positive addition to the series.
Alongside seeing the group navigate the education system, this series has seen the characters develop and mature, as more mature themes are covered throughout. For example, Nick and Charlie’s relationship is developed, as the pair navigate Charlie’s struggles with an eating disorder. The episode which followed Charlie’s journey with food and his mental health made compelling viewing, as the episode portrayed therapy scenes and Charlie’s admission to a mental health facility. It is rare for the media to showcase men’s issues with mental health and body image, so this episode will no doubt help a lot of viewers.
Further, the character of Elle, a trans woman, takes part in a radio interview. With the original aim of the interview being to discuss her art, the interview takes a turn, where Elle is questioned about trans culture wars. Transgender people are often used for political debate in the media and politics, with the interviewer stating how the transgender debate is a “hot topic”. In response, Elle states, “trans people aren’t a debate, we are human beings.” This powerful response from Elle portrays the struggles that trans young people face, as being used as a tool for debate diminishes the feelings of trans people.
Heartstopper has taught us that society should accept everyone as human beings. Everyone’s identity should be supported and celebrated. Many adults lived through Section 28, where LGBTQIA+ people were not allowed to be discussed in schools. For viewers who experienced Section 28, seeing young people express their identities in school is welcoming. Heartstopper being set in a secondary school, where young LGBTQIA+ pupils are able to express themselves freely is a welcome addition to mainstream media.
Hopefully, more shows will follow Heartstopper’s approach of portraying sexuality, to give LGBTQIA+ pupils the platform to use their voice in the media and the education sector.
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