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Is It Real?

(Rated TV-G, Educational, Starring Will Lyman, Ian Gregory, Where to watch: National Geographic Channel, DVD)

  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 7, age appropriate for kids over 9; suggested age 9.

  • Is it any good?

    4.0

  • Common Sense says

    How do legends stand up to science? Tweens+.

Why We Rated This on for Ages 9 and Up

The good stuff

  • Messages:

    The series offers a look at how recent advances in science can help prove or disprove longtime legends. Kids may take an increased interest in the sciences after seeing them put to such practical use.
 

What to watch out for

  • Violence:

    Not an issue.

  • Sex:

    Not an issue.

  • Language:

    Mild language, depending on the show's topic. One episode includes infrequent mentions of killing a Sasquatch, including terms like "bagging one."

  • Consumerism:

    Not an issue.

  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Not an issue.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About Is It Real?

Parents need to know that this documentary series takes on longtime legends, tackling some topics -- like ghosts and UFOs -- that might be frightening for the littlest viewers. Youngsters may also be upset by depictions of legendary creatures or alien sketches, as well as the uncertainty of their possible existence. But kids who like this kind of thing will probably be fascinated as scientific experts discuss how they use various disciplines to analyze physical evidence and self-proclaimed witnesses offer first-hand accounts of paranormal experiences. A final caveat: Before tuning in, even gung-ho kids might need some explanation of what makes (and fuels) legends, as well as some background on each episode's topic.

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about legends and folklore. How do stories go from being harmless entertainment to becoming larger than life? Why would people take actions (like faking evidence) to keep stories like these alive? What evidence about each mystery do you find most credible? Least credible? Families can also discuss which of the legends they personally believe in, if any. What are some other legends you've heard?
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