One of Netflix’s most popular shows, “13 Reasons Why,” developed by Brian Yorkey, has become more famous for the criticism it has received rather than the actual show itself. The show was based on the 2007 novel “Thirteen Reasons Why” by Jay Asher, and contains two seasons with 13 episodes each. It was first released back in March of 2017, and since then has grabbed the attention of teenagers and parents alike for the spectacle it seems to make of a young girl, Hannah Baker’s (portrayed by Katherine Langford), suicide.

The first season was basically a lightning rod of publicity, gathering the attention of child psychologists to concerned parents. The show’s main focus is on Hannah’s suicide, and the 13 cassette tapes she sends after her death to different members of her community that she believes are to blame. When Hannah’s love interest Clay (portrayed by Dylan Minnette) receives his tape, he is baffled by the blame, and wonders how he could have any part in Hannah’s suicide. As he listens to the other cassette tapes that Hannah sent to peers from his school as well as adults around the community, he begins to understand there is much more to the girl he thought he knew.

The show received plenty of criticism surrounding the overwhelming graphic depictions the show includes, such as suicide scenes as well as various instances of sexual assault. Though despite the negative attention that “13 Reasons Why” recieved, many are still a fan of the series. I personally found the acting on all parts impressive at times, particularly the portrayal of Jessica (portrayed by Alisha Boe). Jessica is a fellow peer of Hannah’s who finds herself coming to terms with the fact that a friend sexually assaulted her despite his rampant denial. I admire the fact that the creators were trying to start a conversation about sexual assault, but at times it felt like Jessica’s rape was a plot device that was simply used to further Hannah’s storyline.

The real problem I had with “13 Reasons Why” was how it was dragged out. There was absolutely no reason for a second season – the tapes were done after the first 13 episodes, and there was no reason to subject viewers to a second season full of cheesy dialogue, slow plot lines, and unrelatable characters. Netflix viewers, if you still have not had the chance to witness this trainwreck of a book to series adaptation, don’t waste your time.