Based on Jay Asher’s 2007 YA novel, this provocative Netflix series plays as a mystery in which a teen girl’s suicide is investigated by a high school classmate who was secretly in love with her. Clay (Dylan Minnette) receives a box of audio tapes recorded by Hannah (Katherine Langford) before her death that cite 13 reasons behind her decision to take her own life and names the people whose actions contributed to her choice. This sends Clay on a journey of dark discovery as, tape by tape, he learns that many of her peers abused Hannah either verbally, physically, or anonymously online, and that some of the adults who might have stepped in elected not to do so. Clay puts himself in danger as he confronts jocks, mean girls, false friends, overly ambitious students, drug-dealers, and school officials who betrayed the girl in numerous ways, but he also learns about the fears and insecurities behind their behavior. 13 Reasons Why occasionally carries an afterschool-special vibe, and some of the performances have a slightly amateurish feel. But Minnette and Langford (who appears through voiceovers and flashbacks) are very good, and the series clearly is designed to make viewers aware of suicide warning signs. Presenting all 13 episodes from the 2017 debut season, extras include a behind-the-scenes featurette, character profiles, cast interviews, and a featurette on teen suicide. Recommended. (F. Swietek)
13 Reasons Why: Season 1
Paramount, 4 discs, 717 min., not rated, DVD: $39.99 Volume 33, Issue 4
13 Reasons Why: Season 1
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