Bad Boy - a teen imprisoned in juvenile detention who discovers the power of creativity to heal

"Bad Boy," a new Israeli drama streaming on Netflix since May 2, 2025, has quickly become a global hit, sweeping seven Israeli Television Academy awards, including Best Drama. Created by Ron Leshem, Daniel Chen, and Hagar Ben-Asher, this eight-episode series blends gritty crime drama with dark comedy, inspired by the real-life experiences of comedian Daniel Chen. It follows Dean Shaiman (Guy Manster), a 13-year-old delinquent arrested for drug dealing, and his adult self, Daniel Chen (playing himself), a stand-up comedian haunted by his past in juvenile detention.

The series toggles between Dean’s traumatic teenage years in a brutal prison and his present-day comedy routines, where he uses humor to process his troubled youth. Dean’s wit and charm help him navigate the violent world of juvenile detention, where he forms a complex bond with Zion Zoro (Havtamo Farda), an Ethiopian-Israeli teen convicted of murder. The cast, including Neta Plotnik as Dean’s conflicted mother and Liraz Chamami as the prison warden, delivers powerful performances, with young actors shining in raw, emotional scenes.

For Iceland’s Jewish community, "Bad Boy" offers a window into Israel’s urban underbelly, exploring themes of redemption and resilience rooted in a Jewish cultural context. The series’ Israeli setting and diverse cast, including actors of Ethiopian and Middle Eastern descent, add authenticity, though some cultural nuances may not fully translate for international viewers. Critics praise its raw storytelling but note that the comedic interludes sometimes disrupt the narrative’s flow, and the nonlinear structure can feel disjointed.

Filmed in Tel Aviv, "Bad Boy" captures the gritty reality of juvenile detention with intense cinematography. It’s a compelling watch for those interested in Israeli stories of survival and humor, available exclusively on Netflix.