On Children

On Children is a compelling Taiwanese anthology series available on Netflix since 2018. This groundbreaking show is a merger of science fiction and social satire genres, offering audiences an utterly unique viewing experience. It ingeniously delves into the demanding topics of parenting, adolescence, education, and technology. Unlike many series, On Children does not focus on one single, overarching plot. Instead, it features five standalone episodes, each presenting a distinct yet interconnected storyline.

The series draws inspiration from Black Mirror, a well-established anthology series, renowned for its exploration of modern society and technology’s implications. However, On Children distinctly resounds with the cultural realities of East Asia, specifically the Taiwanese society. It constructs an unnerving reality for its characters riding on the wave of futurism but retains its roots in the distinctive societal norms and idiosyncrasies.

At the heart of On Children lies the intense dynamics of parent-child relationships in Taiwan and the emotionally charged power struggle within families. The series directly confronts the rigidities of the Asian parenting style and its severe psychological impacts on children. The episodes engrossingly unravel the scenario around tiger parenting - a type of strict or demanding parenting. Parents obsessed with children's success often resort to such parenting, hopefully aiding their children in achieving high levels of academic achievement or excellence in extracurricular activities.

On Children remarkably presents this theme within the confines of dystopian settings. It uses speculative fiction to expose the underlying fears associated with the current education system, and forewarns about the potential devastating effects it could have on future generations. Each episode exhibits an alternate version of Taipei, where advanced technologies are used by parents to control their children's lives, interjectory schooling, or defining their mainstream successes. Here, the children's mental well-being is the price paid for such an immoderate focus on success.

The series presents a richly varied mix of characters. Each episode has a unique cast, ensuring a fresh and different perspective. The characters reflect a broad array of emotions, concerns, secret desires, and rebellions. The children often find themselves trapped within the high expectations from their parents and society and struggle to free themselves from these constraints. In contrast, the parents, blinded by their desire to ensure the best for their children, often overlook their children’s emotional needs.

The acting in On Children is a standout, with each actor delivering a believable and relatable performance. The performances are driven by emotive depth and bring out the complexities of each character, making every episode an engrossing watch. At the same time, the visual design, coupled with impressive cinematography and a stirring monotone palette, presses on to create an engrossing atmosphere.

Moreover, the narrative style of On Children is distinctly captivating. It is carefully nuanced with elements of satire, tragedy, and dark humor, making it remarkably unique and thought-provoking. Each storyline is adeptly built, from the inciting incident to the climax and the resolution, with well-placed twists and interpretations. The plot leaves the viewers grappling with moral and ethical dilemmas, encouraging them to pause and reflect.

On Children is a series that doesn't shy away from exploring parents' taxing expectations on their young children, using technological innovation to set the premise. In its course, it stirs profound questions not just about parenting and education, but also about free will, morality, and individuality.

Overall, On Children challenges norms and provides stark portrayals of a dystopian future. Over its five standalone yet interconnected episode run, it offers a different focal point of damage, control, love, and suffocating obedience that can take root in the most basic of human relationships. It serves as a warning tale and a wake-up call for society, bending the boundaries of traditional drama with its unique blend of critical social commentary with speculative fiction. It promises a gripping, heart-rending viewing sure to resonate, provoke thoughts, and promote dialogue about delicate yet pressing societal issues.