13 Reasons Why: 10 Overlooked Positives To The Show
4. Some Of The Issues Are Handled Well
The show isn't terrible at handling issues; rather, it's hit-or-miss.
A good example of this is Tyler's season three story-line. The characters protecting someone who nearly carried out a school shooting was problematic, but do a similar story while only making it about the characters supporting Tyler following his bullying and sexual assault and you've got a good narrative about how people being there for each other can help overcome trauma.
The school shooting subplot and Hannah Baker's suicide arc were mishandled, but other story-lines such as Alex's brain injury, Justin's drug addiction, Tony's family's deportation and season one's car crash haven't been poorly written at all.
Regarding the various sexual assault story-lines, aside from That horrific scene in season two and a few other misjudged moments (like the football game protest), in general these story-lines have worked.
The show has arguably succeeded in depicting how such events can destroy lives, but has also presented powerful recovery arcs for both Jessica and Tyler. In particular, the assembly scene involving sexual assault survivors in season three was very moving.
This is a show with the potential to deliver thought-provoking meditations on serious issues, even if that potential isn't always realised.