The Flintstones - TV-G

Still a classic, but times have changed.

(Flash is loading. If this text does not disappear you need to install the latest flash version)

Common Sense rates it
3
Seen the show?
4966_orig.jpg
details
  • TV Rating: TV-G
  • Network: Boomerang
  • Genre: Children, Cartoons, & Animation
  • >Available On: DVD,Download

Parents need to know

Parents need to know that this Honeymooners-inspired cartoon is an innovative, entertaining animated classic intended to be enjoyed by the entire family. Although all of the characters are good people, the show's language is somewhat dated, which causes characters (especially Fred) to sometimes sound derogatory and stereotypical. Male and female roles are traditional, though Wilma knows how to think for herself.

Families can talk about family values. Do Fred and Wilma have equal roles in their family? What are the similarities and differences between your family and the Flinstones? How have family roles evolved since the show debuted? How might the series be different if it was premiering now instead of in the '60s? For young viewers, parents can ask questions about the "appliances" Fred and the gang use in their everyday lives -- where do you think animators got their ideas for the funny, animal-powered inventions?

Message

Social Behavior:

Characters are politcally incorrect and stereotypical by today's standards, and Fred's hot temper can set bad examples.

Consumerism:

Drugs/Alcohol/Tobacco:

Violence

Barney watches a boxing match on TV; some cartoon pratfalls, but nothing graphic.

Sex

Language

Fred often speaks to other characters in a dismissive, derogatory fashion.

Common Sense says

What's the story?

Reviewed by Deirdre Sheppard

THE FLINTSTONES -- which holds the distinction of being the first prime-time animated series -- takes place in prehistoric Bedrock and comically explores what Stone Age life might have been like with a few "modern" conveniences. Premiering in 1960 and still yabba-dabba doo-ing on DVD and on TV in reruns, this classic stars Alan Reed as working-class "regular guy" Fred Flintstone, Jean Vander Pyl as his wife Wilma and daughter Pebbles, Bea Benaderet as next door neighbor Betty Rubble, Don Messick as Bamm-Bamm Rubble, and Mel Blanc as Fred's best friend Barney Rubble, Dino, and all of the other working animals.

Is it any good?

3

Playing out like an animated version of The Honeymooners, The Flinstones will amuse adults with its slick one-liners regarding marriage, making a living, and fulfilling the American dream. And kids will enjoy Fred and Barney's action-packed antics, as well as the service/pet prehistoric animals.

Parents do need to know that Fred doesn't deal with stress well; his hot temper can set bad behavioral examples. Also, since the series debuted in the '60s, political correctness is nowhere to be found -- both Fred and Barney can be stereotypical and sexist, spewing one liners such as "whoever said a man's house is his castle was probably a woman." Other terms, like "slave labor," are both dated and offensive.

Other choices

The Jetsons
the live-action Flintstones movie
Support Common Sense Media
Common Sense Media is a non-profit and will receive a portion of your purchase from Pricegrabber. Learn more.

Parents and kids say

All Reviews

There are 3 reviews.

5


Posted on 08/11/07 by guitarman Kid contributor, age 12

its funny and relaxing

its a good show with nothing wrong with it exept fred needs to treat his wife with more respect
1


Posted on 05/08/07 by MaryMiSC Adult contributor

It's not the fact that it's just plain not funny anymore...

It's that the role models seriously bite.
4


Posted on 01/20/07 by bigfluffyhead Adult contributor

The first episode I laughed alot.

This show is perfect. I like this show because it is very funny. My funniest characters are Dino, Pebbles, and Bamm Bamm. They just Crack me up. In most episodes, Pebbles and Bamm Bamm, Dino and Hoppy are always up to something. I wish that there are more episodes than 166 episodes. My Funniest episode I seen was Dino and Juliet. Fred and Barney are always getting into fights. This is my favorite show. This Show includes funny jokes ( Mostly like Barney.)

Adult Reviews

There are 2 reviews.

1


Posted on 05/08/07 by MaryMiSC Adult contributor

It's not the fact that it's just plain not funny anymore...

It's that the role models seriously bite.
4


Posted on 01/20/07 by bigfluffyhead Adult contributor

The first episode I laughed alot.

This show is perfect. I like this show because it is very funny. My funniest characters are Dino, Pebbles, and Bamm Bamm. They just Crack me up. In most episodes, Pebbles and Bamm Bamm, Dino and Hoppy are always up to something. I wish that there are more episodes than 166 episodes. My Funniest episode I seen was Dino and Juliet. Fred and Barney are always getting into fights. This is my favorite show. This Show includes funny jokes ( Mostly like Barney.)

Kids Reviews

There are 1 reviews.

5


Posted on 08/11/07 by guitarman Kid contributor, age 12

its funny and relaxing

its a good show with nothing wrong with it exept fred needs to treat his wife with more respect
Review It
What do your kids do online?
Surf
34%
Homework and research
19%
Download music
10%
Chat with friends
37%
132 votes