The Netflix Original series “13 Reasons Why” was released on March 31, 2017, and is based on the novel written by Jay Asher. Last fall, Lemont’s Drama Department took on the demanding task of portraying this story on stage.

The storyline of the book and series is about a girl named Hannah Baker, who has a tough sophomore and junior year of high school, filled with bullying, betrayal, and sexual assault. This story, although difficult to watch, needs to be discussed more in today’s society.

Reason #1: The Cast

Based on seeing the play and knowing the basis of the story, I think that the cast in the Netflix series depicts the narrative in a very explicit and compelling way.

I watched the series once by myself and then again with my parents. After watching for the second time, the acting portrayed by the cast still left me feeling anxious and unsettled. Their portrayal of the story’s events was so raw but so necessary.

Reason #2: The Mystery

Even though I had seen the play last fall, I didn’t remember all of the details of the storyline. The way the story had been recorded in 13 separate episodes obviously went along with the 13 different tapes, but it also aided in the audience’s anticipation as it seemed like Clay made his way painfully slowly through the tapes.

Reason #3: The Cinematography

I absolutely loved the difference in coloring between the flashbacks and the present; the flashbacks were brighter and more colorful, signifying the color that Hannah brought to the world. However, when she is gone, the coloring is much darker, just like how the world is for her parents and Clay.

Reason #4: The Music

The series and storyline as a whole felt complete with the music that was chosen. Most of the songs that were played I had never heard before but found myself searching the lyrics and adding to my music library.

Reason #5: It Brings Awareness

This series tackles issues such as rape, suicide, bullying, and other high school encounters that need to be talked about more in today’s society. Some have argued that this series glamorizes suicide, and no matter your opinion on the series, it does achieve one common goal: spreading awareness on these important issues.