From G's to Gents - TV-14
Gritty reality show teaches bad boys good lessons.
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- TV Rating: TV-14
- Network: MTV
- Cast: Fonzworth Bentley
- Genre: Reality TV
- >Available On: Download
Parents need to know
Families can talk about the different ways that the media can be used to help educate viewers. What kinds of lessons is this show trying to teach? Are they only applicable to people who embrace the "gangster" image? What does that image represent? Is it stereotypical? Do you think the media (music videos, for example) generally promotes this image as a positive thing?
Message
Social Behavior:
The series portrays the "gangster" image as both negative and stereotypical. Participants learn to be better men by learning life skills like basic manners, good communication, professionalism, etc. While some of their motivation is driven by greed, many of the contestants want to change their lives around. Contestants occasionally make racist remarks about other contestants. There's also class-based stereotyping among contestants. The men are from various racial/ethnic backgrounds. Most of them come from lower-income inner-city communities.
Consumerism:
Tag Body Spray is one of the show's sponsors; Bentley is featured in at least one Tag commercial during the show's run. Labels on beer bottles, etc. are covered, although the brands are still identifiable.
Drugs/Alcohol/Tobacco:
Smoking, alcohol consumption (beer, hard liquor), and drunken behavior are prominently visible. Subtle references to drug dealing.
Violence
Lots of yelling and arguing between cast members; occasionally contestants threaten to punch out or "whack" a fellow contestant. Cst members occasionally push and shove each other. But violence is not treated as acceptable behavior.
Sex
Some references to being "sexy." Participants make suggestive comments about Bentley's assistant; one makes a lewd comment about her breasts using the word "tits." Several of the contestants refer to themselves as "pimps."
Language
Audible language includes words like "piss" and "hell." Curse words like "s--t" and "f--k" are frequently used but bleeped out.
Common Sense says
What's the story?
Reviewed by Melissa Camacho
Is it any good?
Granted, watching some of these rough guys navigate awkwardly through cricket matches and wine tastings can be funny to watch. But these moments give participants a chance to realize that there are alternative ways to experience the world. It also sends the message that if they choose to work hard for it, they can be part of a society in which they'll be respected for making positive contributions rather than intimidating people. And while these positive take-aways make the show worthwhile viewing for teens and adults, some of its content -- from lewd comments to swearing to gritty personal stories of life on the streets -- makes it iffy for younger viewers.
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