My Block (MTV)

If you judged this series solely on its title and focus, you could easily assume that it's yet another Pimp My Ride. But as My Blocks's cameras follow the featured artists around their 'hood, it becomes clear that the show has at least somewhat nobler goals. Particularly interesting is how -- as in the movie Rize -- the show portrays hip-hop and rap music as positive influences on neighborhood kids and teens, giving them an alternative to a life on the streets. The show's humanizing and grounding effect on each artist's image is something that parents will particularly appreciate -- and it might also help bring teens' image of their heroes closer to their own reality.

Seeing how these artists grew up and the choices they made to seek out positive community role models -- as well as how many of them have come back to their neighborhoods -- gives both teens and parents an alternative view of these musicians. Ultimately, My Block is a surprisingly enjoyable and enlightening "travelogue" that provides insight as well as opportunity to discuss potentially difficult subject matter.