‘RIV4LRIES’ (2025) Netflix Series Review - Exploring Teenage All Over Again

Riv4lries brings us the story of pre-adolescence and the turbulence that teenagers face growing up. Created by Simona Ercolani, the show is based in Pisa. This city plays an important role as it serves more than just a backdrop; rather, it is filled with the contradictions and aspirations of youth. The narrative revolves around Montalcini Middle School, which, like many schools, is divided into two groups: the “insiders” and the “outsiders”. The “insiders” are the people who enjoy popularity, while the “outsiders” are the ones who thrive on the margins of social life. So when you watch this part, some of you might relate to this division. And it goes unsaid that these two groups don’t go well together. The rivalry between these groups intensifies upon the arrival of a new student named Terry. With her joining the school, the calm “balance” of these groups gets disrupted, and now there is a feeling of hatred as the insiders can't stand the outsiders and vice versa. Claudio, one of the popular guys, along with his so-called popular group, welcomes her. This gives us a vibe that she, too, might be the type of person who will become a part of the popular group. But that’s not what we get to see. Terry must navigate these troubled waters in order to exist at school peacefully.

One big strength of the show is that, alongside the teenagers, the adults exist too. And it's not mere existence in the background. In the role of parents and teachers, they are crucial in the show. They are the backbone, without whom the plot won't go ahead. The adults try to understand the teenagers while the teenagers struggle to make themselves understood.

A big shout-out to the writers for making a script that is simple yet relatable. The dialogs complement the script to give us scenes that leave a lasting impact. We relive the teenage life through the show, which gives us a glimpse of a future full of possibilities as well as vulnerability that comes along with it. We are also shown teenage love, which has its own share of tenderness as well as awkwardness. So, for the viewers who have had such a teenage life, this can be a throwback for you all. That’s the best thing about the plot- both the teenagers and the adults can relate to it.

Like every coin has two sides, Riv4lries gives us the darker side of adolescence, which can get messier if not taken under control. With phones, the internet, and social media being the in thing, the undeniable part of cyberbullying is also explored.  Through the plot and the characters, the negative impact of this side of the internet is portrayed, which also serves as an eye-opener.

The pacing is even throughout the runtime, ensuring that you won’t get bored easily. Even visually, the scenes are nice and worth watching. It gives us a certain type of intimacy that can only be explained when you watch the show. So, viewers, this show is a great watch, regardless of your age.

Final Score- [8/10]
Reviewed by - Neerja Choudhuri
Follow @NeerjaCH on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times