Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that this unique game show tests random New York City taxicab riders on their trivia knowledge for a cash prize. Questions are general knowledge and appropriate for all ages, though pre-teens may not have the knowledge base to fully participate in play-at-home viewing. The host occasionally smirks at the camera when a contestant doesn't know an answer, but the tone of the show is generally lighthearted. The host and/or contestants occasionally use mild curse words, though they're usually bleeped. Be sure to remind kids that they should never get in a stranger's car, no matter what the incentive.
Families can play along with the game. Do kids or parents know the answers that stump the contestants? Who would you call for a "shout-out"? Would you agree to play the game if you got into the Cash Cab unsuspectingly? Do you think it's safe for the driver to be hosting the show while he's driving? How is this show similar to and different from other TV game shows?
Common Sense Review
Reviewed By: Sierra Filucci
CASH CAB is an innovative game show in which unsuspecting New York City taxi riders answer trivia questions for a cash prize.
When customers step into comedian Ben Bailey's taxi, they don't know they're stepping onto a mobile game show set. But thanks to the flicker of colorful interior lights and a brief musical jingle, they quickly realize that it isn't a normal cab. Bailey introduces the rules of the game, and, if riders agree to play, the car starts moving and the game begins.
Contestants have the duration of their ride to answer general knowledge trivia questions, which get progressively harder and more lucrative. Bailey asks the questions, which are presumably transmitted to him by earpiece, since he has to negotiate Manhattan traffic while also playing host.
Players have a brief window of time to answer questions. If they answer incorrectly, they get a strike; after three strikes, they have to leave the cab, and they lose all the accumulated prize money. If players need help with a question, they have two "shout-outs" available: They get one chance to ask someone off the street for help and one opportunity to call someone they know.
Those who make it to their destination without striking out have an opportunity to double their money by answering one more question transmitted by video monitor. But if they answer the final question incorrectly, they lose everything.
Questions are interesting, with topics ranging from geography to media. Players vary in age, ethnicity, and skill, which adds an extra appeal to the show. Bailey is likeable, and his occasional quips are funny without overpowering the flow of the game.
Fans might also like The Rich List, 1 vs 100, or, for mature viewers, Taxicab Confessions.
Rate It!
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ViolencePlayful shoulder jabbing is the extent of it. |
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LanguageOccasional "hell" or "crap," though even these words are sometimes bleeped. |
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Social BehaviorNormal game show greed. Contestants represent a wide range of ages, backgrounds, and ethnicities. |
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CommercialismAs is usual with game shows, many aspects of the show are sponsored. Contestants who use the mobile phone shout-out do so on a Cingular phone, which is blatantly announced by the host. The video question is sponsored by Aflac, and viewers see a brief brand logo before the video plays. |
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