Over the last 15 years, the portrayal of Gen Z in movies and TV shows has faced plenty of criticism. From overused slang and over-the-top, frankly questionable outfits to unrealistic depictions of everyday life, Hollywood has often struggled to get our generation right. But recently, it feels as though a switch flipped and producers collectively decided to rewrite what it means to be young.Â
Euphoria, Never Have I Ever, Adults, Bodies Bodies Bodies and Sterling Point are just a few examples of media that have resonated with Gen Z audiences. So, what makes these shows and films feel so relatable to younger viewers? For starters, they feel real. Gen Z has grown up with social media, which has exposed us to more information and experiences at a younger age. Although this doesn’t necessarily mean we’re more mature, it does mean that many of us have encountered adult topics before we were ready to navigate them. We may develop certain habits sooner than previous generations expect or experience things before we’re emotionally prepared for them. So it makes sense that many of my peers would recoil at depictions of us acting or looking like little children.Â
When you look at the average high school or college campus, the diversity of people and experiences is undeniable. So, it never made sense that, for the longest time, producers seemed to only focus on a narrow range of ethnicities, identities and sexual orientations. Now, many shows and films are making a more conscious effort to change this, with many representing a wider range of backgrounds and identities and reflecting the diversity of real-life friend groups. Adults is one example, showcasing young adults from different walks of life as they navigate the transition into adulthood.Â
For a heavier take on adolescence, many Gen Z viewers saw aspects of their own lives reflected in the hit HBO series Euphoria. The show explores teenage drug use alongside complicated family dynamics and relationships. I think its characters offer a sobering look at some of the challenges young people face, especially in light of the “Xandemic” opioid crisis and the growing concerns surrounding substance use among younger generations.
More recently, Sterling Point has captured the attention of teens and young adults everywhere. Beyond its breathtaking setting, the show does something that few productions have managed to pull off successfully: it captures the way Gen Z communicates. It’s no secret that our generation has developed its own vocabulary, often leaving older generations struggling to keep up. Many viewers believe Sterling Point has been able to master the usage of these words, along with the humor and candidness that characterize so many Gen Z conversations. The show also captures the ways we interact with our friends, family and partners, highlighting the notorious relationship dynamics and attachment styles that Gen Z is no stranger to.Â
For me personally, one of the first times I felt represented was through Never Have I Ever, a show released in 2020 that many teenage girls also found relatable. Were some situations exaggerated? Sure. But for the most part, the show truly hit home by addressing serious topics that so many teenagers experience: love, loss, grief, joy and rebellion. As an Indian girl myself, I found comfort in knowing that my experiences weren’t unique to me and that stories like mine were being told.
In the end, few feelings compare to seeing yourself reflected on screen. And as Gen Z continues to shape culture at the forefront of society, it’s integral that the media we consume reflects the many different experiences, identities and realities within our generation. We don’t need every character to represent all of us, but we deserve stories that make us feel seen, understood and, most importantly, human.Â