Streaming giant HBO Max has unveiled a Spanish premiere set to become one of the year’s most talked-about releases. We’re talking about the six-episode project ‘Pubertat,’ created by the multi-talented Leticia Dolera, who serves as director, co-writer, and one of the lead actresses. This miniseries immerses viewers in the world of Catalan teenagers whose lives are upended by a single tragic incident.
At the heart of the story is a close-knit group of young people from a colla castellera, a traditional team that builds human towers. Their friendship and trust—foundations in this unique art—are put to the ultimate test. During the celebration of the summer solstice, the verbena of San Juan, an alleged sexual assault occurs. Three boys are accused of violence against a female teammate. This incident acts as a catalyst, exposing deep rifts not just within their small community, but in society at large.
Dolera’s project deliberately avoids the standard clichés of youth dramas, where everything is divided into black and white. Instead, “Pubertat” focuses on nuance, exploring the complex web of emotions, social norms, and personal experiences. The creators refrain from passing quick judgment, encouraging viewers to draw their own conclusions about the intricacies of a situation where there are no clearly right or wrong sides. To ensure maximum authenticity, Leticia Dolera spent several years preparing, consulting with judges, lawyers, and experts on sexualized violence. This has brought realism and depth to the narrative.
The drama presents the audience with a number of difficult questions. What is it like to accuse those you considered friends of a terrible act? What stance should parents take when their children are caught up in such a scandal? And how does collective responsibility shape individual choices? The symbolism of the ‘castells,’ where the fall of one can bring down the entire structure, runs throughout the story, serving as a reminder of the fragility of trust and the importance of support. The cast seamlessly blends youthful talent, such as Carla Quílez and Ot Serra, with renowned veterans like Vicky Peña and Betsy Túrnez, adding even more depth and credibility to the story.
Thus, Dolera’s new work is more than just a TV series. It’s an invitation to have an honest conversation about issues that are often left unspoken: the boundaries of consent, the quality of sex education, and those invisible problems that still persist in the modern world. The platform does not offer ready-made solutions but instead provides food for thought, sparking a much-needed discussion.
