Lobster Wars - TV-PG

Deep-sea rivalry plays out in rough reality show.

(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?
7222_orig.jpg
details
  • TV Rating: TV-PG
  • Network: Discovery Channel
  • Cast: Scott Christopher, Mike Palombo, Keith Sultzbach
  • Genre: Reality TV

Parents need to know

Parents need to know that this reality series about competing fishing crews includes some rough language (words like "f--k" are bleeped; "piss" and "damn" aren't), as well as some iffy pranks between crew members (one jumps on another's back and simulates a sex act). There are also some dangerous moments at sea. That said, most of the horseplay and language are of the "boys being boys" variety and isn't gratuitous. And the show does offer an interesting look at a culture that most viewers won't be familiar with.

Families can talk about the appeal of shows like this, Ice Road Truckers, and Deadliest Catch. What's so fascinating about getting a glimpse of these dangerous jobs? Do you think these shows are more or less realistic than other reality series? What do you think compels people to work in these professions? Families can also discuss how traditions and superstitions influence the fishing culture. Where did these traditions come from? Despite the influx of science and technology in the fishing industry, why do fisherman still honor old-time fishing lore?

Message

Social Behavior:

The crews are hardworking. Captains/skippers share information and usually demonstrate respect for each other, although -- in the name of competition -- some provide misinformation or cut another boat's fishing lines. Most crewmembers are Caucasian males, though the crew of the Timothy Michael includes one woman.

Consumerism:

Brief descriptions of New England towns, including Newport, RI, and Hyannisport, MA.

Drugs/Alcohol/Tobacco:

Visible cigarette smoking. Discussion of drinking, and alcoholic beverages are sometimes shown.

Violence

Rough waters crash into boats and their crews. The competition is a turf war on the open seas; crews send "warning shots" to other boats that "violate" their territory.

Sex

Some playful behavior includes mooning the camera, but the person's backside is blurred. One man jumps on the back of another and simulates a sexual act. These incidents are presented as crude pranks, not sexually explicit acts.

Language

Not surprisingly, these fishermen use some salty language, including "piss", "damn," and "hell". Stronger words, like "f--k" and "bulls--t," are bleeped out.

Common Sense says

What's the story?

Reviewed by Melissa Camacho

LOBSTER WARS documents the journeys of five lobster boats as they compete for the biggest haul in the ice-cold waters of the North Atlantic. The reality series follows the crews of the Dragon Lady, the Timothy Michael, the Direction, the Rachel Leah, and the William Bowe as they set out on a fishing trip to Georges Bank, the winter's most profitable lobster grounds. Crew members battle bad weather and rough seas in order to fight for the best spots to lay their traps. The rivalry grows fierce as the number of lobster boats increases ... while the crustacean supply ebbs.

Is it any good?

3

While the competition between the boats for a profitable haul is the show's main theme, it also offers an honest portrayal of how difficult it really is to earn a living at sea. Rotting fish, grueling hours of work in freezing temperatures, and disappointingly small catches are all part of the job. Captains must work to keep a hired crew together while simultaneously working to keep their boats -- and their businesses -- afloat.

The crewmen (and one crew woman) swear like -- go figure -- sailors, but they're hard workers who have a healthy appreciation for the traditions and superstitions that are a rich part of life on the high seas. Rookie fishermen are expected to learn from the more experienced ones. Small rituals are conducted to bring luck. And, above all, the power of the ocean is always respected.

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.

1


Posted on 11/16/07 by capecodbill Adult contributor

What a bunch of losers.

From the arrogant captains of the highliners to the loser captain of the Timothy Michael, I can't say I have seen a bigger bunch of nobodys in my life. Your ocean? give me a break.
4


Posted on 09/12/07 by superbubbadude Adult contributor

Appreciation

A good program that shows us how much work it takes to being us that great lobster dinner that most of us like so well. I have nothing but admiration for these guys out there doing it. Wish I was with you.
4


Posted on 08/31/07 by captainswife Adult contributor

My husband is one the Captain of the Willaim Bowe and it is a wonderful way for us to see what life is really like for him out there. We've heard lots of storys, but its a great forum for his kids to now see what its all about. Don't forget, they are able to see lots of sea life that most of us pay to see in an aquarium.

Adult Reviews

There are 3 reviews.

1


Posted on 11/16/07 by capecodbill Adult contributor

What a bunch of losers.

From the arrogant captains of the highliners to the loser captain of the Timothy Michael, I can't say I have seen a bigger bunch of nobodys in my life. Your ocean? give me a break.
4


Posted on 09/12/07 by superbubbadude Adult contributor

Appreciation

A good program that shows us how much work it takes to being us that great lobster dinner that most of us like so well. I have nothing but admiration for these guys out there doing it. Wish I was with you.
4


Posted on 08/31/07 by captainswife Adult contributor

My husband is one the Captain of the Willaim Bowe and it is a wonderful way for us to see what life is really like for him out there. We've heard lots of storys, but its a great forum for his kids to now see what its all about. Don't forget, they are able to see lots of sea life that most of us pay to see in an aquarium.

Kids Reviews

There are 0 reviews.

There are no kids reviews.

Review It
Who's your favorite TV holiday special character?
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
100%
The Grinch
0%
Frosty the Snowman
0%
Charlie Brown
0%
Shrek
0%
1 votes