Tools for this page
Print

Nip/Tuck

(Rated TV-MA, Drama, Starring Joely Richardson, Dylan Walsh, Julian McMahon, Where to watch: FX, DVD, Download)
  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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

    Not age appropriate for kids under 17, age appropriate for kids over 17; suggested age 17.
  • Is it any good?

    4.0
  • Common Sense says

    Controversial plastic surgery drama; NOT for kids.

updated 01.30.09

Why We Rated This not for kids

What to watch out for

  • Messages:

    Shows the superficial, profiteering nature of plastic surgery. None of the flawed characters are positive role models, though some occasionally have moments of redemption. Features people of diverse backgrounds, including gay and transgendered characters. Extramarital affairs, euthanasia, and sexual promiscuity are also discussed, but these discussions contain little about the consequences of these actions. Both men and women are often sexually objectified. Also highlights the struggles of doctors wanting to help people while coping with the business-like aspects of the medical profession.
  • Violence:

    Strong images of blood and severed limbs during surgical procedures; one episode featured a woman using a carving knife to cut off her own breast. Ongoing storyline about a serial rapist who "carves" people's faces. Occasional fights between characters. Episodes have included harsh beatings, some of which were spurred by prejudice.
  • Sex:

    Very strong sexual content, including graphic sex scenes and partial nudity. Some characters are unsure of their sexuality. Discussions of sex, sexuality, and genitalia often take place within the context of plastic surgery, as well as within the context of personal relationships.
  • Language:

    Contains some strong language, but not extreme swearing.
  • Consumerism:

    Although there isn't any obvious product placement, materialism is rampant.
  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Frequent adult consumption of alcohol, including wine and hard liquor. Drugs and drug trafficking are seen and discussed.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About Nip/Tuck

Parents need to know that this addictive plastic surgery drama is absolutely not for kids (or anyone squeamish, for that matter). Because it's on cable, many of the usual primetime boundaries don't apply: It routinely deals with strong themes including rape, drugs, and incest and includes explicit depictions of sexual behavior and graphic portrayals of surgical procedures. An interesting subtext is the tension between doctors committed to helping people and the growing profit-based business of plastic surgery.

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about why people have plastic surgery. When is plastic surgery medically necessary? Why do so many people opt for surgery when they're dissatisfied with their looks? What are the benefits and drawbacks of having plastic surgery? Why do doctors specialize in plastic surgery? Families can also talk about the importance of having a positive self-image and going beyond superficial looks to appreciate someone's personality.
Want more? Get Common Sense recommendations delivered to your inbox.
Enter your email address
I am over 13 years old
Tell us your child's age
Why we ask
Why we ask
Providing your kids' age allows us to give you personalized recommendations for your family on our site and in our weekly newsletter (coming soon) - so you get better information, faster.Your privacy is our priority.

You are now subscribed to the Common Sense weekly newsletter!

To write reviews and create a public profile, complete your account set-up here.

Our Members Say

Have You Seen It? Review It!

  • What did you think about Nip/Tuck?
  •  I think this show is

    for ages

  •  I also give it

  •  Any concerns?

  •  Any highlights?

  •  Love it? Hate it?

  • or to post a review
See all 7 member reviews

Most Recent Reviews

  1. Adult Reviewer
    Lives in California
    I rate this title off for age 17 and give it 5.0

    my guilty pleasure!

    this movie is so trashy and sexual and raunchy and just so awesome! i would never let my kids watch it though (if i had kids anyway). very horrible language, a lot of adult themes, and just awesome! its the kind of show you don't really want to admit to loving it haha

  2. Adult Reviewer
    Lives in Texas
    I rate this title on for age 17 and give it 4.0

    no children

    no children

  3. Teen Reviewer
    Age 15
    Lives in California
    I rate this title iffy for age 2 and give it 4.0

    hmm

    i love these types of shows.

  4. Adult Reviewer
    Anonymous
    Lives in Georgia
    I rate this title iffy for age 17 and give it 3.0

    only for audience 18yr & older

    the show was a great show until they started showing soft porn on the show. now i can not watch the show with my kids in the room anymore. they mess the show up. Need to air the show on HBO payed cable not air it on regular cable were kids under 18 might see it.

  5. Adult Reviewer
    Lives in Alabama
    I rate this title on for age 17 and give it 5.0

Find TV reviews by title

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z 0-9

More Great Stuff For Your Kids

  • Site of the Week

    KidZui

    KidZui

    Kids' browser features prescreened, safe sites.

  • Issue Spotlight

    Cheating Via Chat?

    Cheating Via Chat?

    Is it OK for kids to do homework on Facebook?

  • Tech Tip

    A how-to guide for parents. Google Safe Search

    A how-to guide for parents.

  • Member Buzz

    Parent Spying & Text

    Parent Spying & Text

    Should parents read their kids' texts?

  • Game of the Week

    EA Sports Active

    EA Sports Active

    Virtual personal trainers help families get fit on the Wii.