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The Year of the Yao
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Is it age appropriate?
About our ratings(Flash is loading. If this text does not disappear you need to install the latest flash version)
Not age appropriate for kids under 7, age appropriate for kids over 8; suggested age 8. -
Is it any good?
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Common Sense says
Yao Ming's journey from Shanghai to Houston.
Why We Rated This 
for Ages 8 and Up
The good stuff
What to watch out for
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Violence & scariness:
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Sexy stuff:
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Language:
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Consumerism:
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Drinking, drugs, & smoking:
What Parents Need to Know
About The Year of the Yao
Parents need to know that this documentary focuses on the super-popular basketball player Yao Ming, whose initial acclimation into U.S. culture involves getting used to a new language, new habits, and new expectations. Many kids will be interested in his story, partly because the marketing machine this film exposes is so successful (Yao jerseys, posters, and other merchandise are everywhere). Families should be aware that the film's premise is Yao's integration into U.S. commercial culture: he becomes a kind of brand himself, as he sells Apple computers or soft drinks. It doesn't hurt that Yao is a great salesman, a good sport, and a loyal son to his parents, who come with him to live in Houston during his first year. There is mild profanity (from Yao's teammates), and the game scenes can be intense (only as professional basketball involves some aggression and body contact).
Read our full review by Cynthia Fuchs
Families Can Talk About
- Families can talk about the difficulty of learning a new language or being surrounded by a new culture. Families can also talk about the ups and downs of being a celebrity, or the pressures facing a sports star, who is expected to perform well on the court (in other words, work hard to stay in excellent condition and practice shots and passes), as well as accommodate fans and take part in publicity events. Is such fame and fortune worth all this hard work?
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