13 Reasons Why is a Netflix original series that premiered in 2017. The show is based on the 2007 novel of the same name by Jay Asher. The series follows Clay Jensen (Dylan Minnette), a high school student who receives a box of cassette tapes from his classmate and crush, Hannah Baker (Katherine Langford). On the tapes, Hannah explains the 13 reasons why she chose to end her life.
The show has been praised for its sensitive handling of difficult subject matter, including suicide, sexual assault, and bullying. However, it has also been criticized for its graphic depictions of violence and for glamorizing suicide.
Positives
- 13 Reasons Why is a well-acted and well-written show. The cast is excellent, and the characters are complex and relatable.
- The show is brave in its exploration of difficult subject matter. It doesn’t shy away from tough topics, and it does so in a way that is both informative and thought-provoking.
- The show is ultimately hopeful. It shows that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope for redemption.
Negatives
- The show’s graphic depictions of violence and suicide have been criticized for being potentially triggering for viewers who have experienced these things themselves.
- The show has been accused of glamorizing suicide. Some critics have argued that the show’s portrayal of Hannah’s suicide makes it seem like a more appealing option than it really is.
- The show has also been criticized for its unrealistic portrayal of high school life. Some critics have argued that the show’s depiction of bullying and sexual assault is too extreme and that it does not accurately reflect the experiences of most high school students.
Overall
13 Reasons Why is a well-made show that tackles difficult subject matter in a thought-provoking way. However, the show’s graphic depictions of violence and suicide may be triggering for some viewers. Additionally, the show’s portrayal of high school life may be unrealistic for some viewers.
Despite these criticisms, 13 Reasons Why is a powerful and important show that has the potential to start important conversations about difficult topics. If you are considering watching the show, it is important to be aware of the potential triggers and to be prepared for a realistic portrayal of high school life.
Recommendation
I would recommend 13 Reasons Why to viewers who are interested in a well-made show that tackles difficult subject matter. However, I would caution viewers who have experienced violence, suicide, or sexual assault to be aware of the potential triggers and to proceed with caution.
The relationship between Clay Jensen and Hannah Baker
The relationship between Clay Jensen and Hannah Baker is one of the central relationships in 13 Reasons Why. Clay is a shy and introverted high school student who is drawn to Hannah, a popular and outgoing girl. The two of them start to develop a friendship, and Clay eventually develops feelings for Hannah. However, Hannah is struggling with a number of personal problems, including bullying, sexual assault, and depression. She eventually commits suicide, and leaves behind a series of cassette tapes for Clay in which she explains the 13 reasons why she chose to end her life.
Clay is devastated by Hannah’s death, and he struggles to understand why she would do something like this. As he listens to the tapes, he begins to piece together the events that led to Hannah’s suicide. He also begins to understand the pain and suffering that Hannah was going through.
Clay’s relationship with Hannah is complex and multifaceted. He is both her friend and her confidante. He is her protector and her defender. He is the one person who she can truly be herself with. However, he is also the one person who is ultimately unable to save her.
Clay’s relationship with Hannah is a reminder that even the strongest relationships can be fragile. It is also a reminder that suicide is a serious problem that should not be taken lightly. If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out for help. There are people who care about you and want to help you get through this.
Link to the original book:
Here are some resources that can help:
- The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255
- The Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- The Trevor Project: 1-866-488-7386
- The Jed Foundation: https://www.jedfoundation.org/
- The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention: https://afsp.org/