Tools for this page
Print

Big Ideas for a Small Planet

(Rated TV-PG, Educational, Where to watch: Sundance Channel, Download)

  • 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 10; suggested age 10.

  • Is it any good?

    4.0

  • Common Sense says

    Hip docuseries sells viewers on environmentalism.

updated 07.04.08

Why We Rated This on for Ages 10 and Up

The good stuff

  • Messages:

    Encourages viewers to be proactive and more environmentally responsible.
 

What to watch out for

  • Violence:

    Dire predictions about the future of the environment may be scary to younger viewers. Brief footage of floods and other natural disasters.

  • Sex:

    Not an issue.

  • Language:

    Some fairly lighthearted cursing, like "bulls--t," "badass," "hell," and "screw."

  • Consumerism:

    Tie-in with Lexus hybrid cars. Some brands are visible in the background -- such as Coors Light, Honda, Firestone, and 7-11.

  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Beer visible.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About Big Ideas for a Small Planet

Parents need to know that this documentary series takes a strong environmentalist stance. It's so persuasive, in fact, that it may result in tweens and teens encouraging parents to ditch their SUVs or buy hemp clothing. Interviews with experts and entrepreneurs sometimes contain lighthearted expletives. Each episode features a "Lexus hybrid living tip," and several other brand names appear on screen, usually in the background.

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about environmentalism. What makes someone an environmentalist? What is the media's role in spreading environmental messages? What point(s) is this series trying to make? What do you think producers want the show to accomplish? On a more personal level, what can families do to protect and improve the environment? What lifestyle changes could you make? What luxuries are you unwilling to give up in the name of going green? What should you do if family members disagree about how to pitch in?
Tools and tips that can help
Want more? Get Common Sense recommendations delivered to your inbox.
Enter your email address
I am over 13 years old
Tell us your child's age
Why we ask
Why we ask
Providing your kids' age allows us to give you personalized recommendations for your family on our site and in our weekly newsletter (coming soon) - so you get better information, faster.Your privacy is our priority.

You are now subscribed to the Common Sense weekly newsletter!

To write reviews and create a public profile, complete your account set-up here.

Our Members Say

Have You Seen It? Review It!
  • What did you think about Big Ideas for a Small Planet?

  •  I think this show is

    for ages

  •  I also give it

  •  Any concerns?

  •  Any highlights?

  •  Love it? Hate it?

  • or to post a review

Find TV reviews by title

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z 0-9

More Great Stuff For Your Kids

  • New in Theaters

    Age 13+
    Terminator Salvation

    Terminator Salvation

    First PG-13 Terminator is loud, explosive, and dark.

  • Issue Spotlight

    Beach Body Blues

    Beach Body Blues

    Talk to your kids about body image and the media.

  • Must See TV

    Age 6+
    BrainRush

    BrainRush

    Kid-friendly contest puts exciting twist on game shows.

  • Most Popular This Week

    Pixar Favorites

    Pixar Favorites

    If your kids are excited for Up, they'll love these!

  • Download This

    Age 2+
    European Playground

    European Playground

    Give kids a taste of Europe's languages and rhythms.