Tools for this page
Print

Perfect Strangers

(Rated NR, Comedy, Starring JoMarie Payton, Bronson Pinchot, Mark Linn-Baker, Where to watch: ION, Syndicated, Online)
  • 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 7, age appropriate for kids over 10; suggested age 10.
  • Is it any good?

    3.0
  • Common Sense says

    Cultures clash in upbeat, slapstick '80s classic.

Why We Rated This on for Ages 10 and Up

The good stuff

  • Messages:

    Larry and Balki are cousins and good friends who are very loyal to each other. Their cultural differences are sources of humor, but they're generally presented in a way that doesn't insult or disapprove. Overall, the show presents a positive example of immigration and cultural adaptation. Larry can get caught up in crazy schemes. The cast is primarily Caucasian.
 

What to watch out for

  • Violence:

    Some light, slapstick slapping, shoving, pushing, and peril, but nothing that causes real harm.
  • Sex:

    Mostly hugging and kissing. Some sexual innuendo that will go over the head of younger viewers; later episodes have some stronger sexual references, including subtle references to virginity. Balki is sexually harassed by a female boss at the Chronicle. A later episode deals with pregnancy.
  • Language:

    Very occasional use of mild language like "hell" and "damn."
  • Consumerism:

    Occasional references to music and pop-culture icons of the time (like Bruce Springsteen). Popular Chicago locations visible.
  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Some limited adult consumption of alcohol (typically social drinking). Occasional use of unnamed over-the-counter medications and herbal remedies created by Balki.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About Perfect Strangers

Parents need to know that this classic 1980s slapstick sitcom bases much of its humor on the two main characters' cultural differences -- particularly Balki's misunderstanding of American customs. But they still build a strong, lasting friendship, and the humor isn't disparaging. Expect some subtle sexual innuendo, which gets stronger during the show's later seasons. But they're still mild by today's standards, and most will probably go over the head of younger viewers.

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about why it's funny when someone doesn't understand things that are second-nature to you. How do you think you'd feel if you moved somewhere that was totally unfamiliar? Do you think the show is laughing at Balki, or with him? What's the difference? Is it OK to laugh at people when they make innocent mistakes? How do you think this show would be different if it was being produced today?

Want more? Get Common Sense recommendations delivered to your inbox.

Our Members Say

Have you seen it? Review It!

  • What did you think about Perfect Strangers?
  •  I think this show is

    for ages

  •  I also give it

  •  Any concerns?

  •  Any highlights?

  •  Love it? Hate it?

  • or to post a review

More Great Stuff For Your Kids

  • Now Playing

    Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs

    Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs

    Age-apropriate 3-D food adventure doesn't fully satisfy.

  • Advice for Parents

    Are Your Kids Obsessed with Twilight & New Moon?

    Are Your Kids Obsessed with Twilight & New Moon?

    Discussion pointers for parents of "twilighters."

  • Must See TV

    Glee

    Glee

    Edgy-but-quirky comedy's music, message will win teens over.

  • Issue Spotlight

    The 10 Most Violent Video Games (And 10 Alternatives)

    The 10 Most Violent Video Games (And 10 Alternatives)

    Our video game experts weigh in.

  • Download This

    The Twilight Saga: New Moon Soundtrack

    The Twilight Saga: New Moon Soundtrack

    Dark, cool tunes OK for kids too young for the movie.

Give Us a Minute, Get a Lot of Common Sense!
  • Age-appropriate best bets for your kids
  • Weekly email alert with the latest picks, reviews & advice
  • Post your own reviews and share them with friends

This will never be displayed to others.
Your email will never be displayed to others.
Your password should be 6-10 characters long.
A screen name protects your privacy
To post a review or comment you must become a Common Sense Member. It's easy!

Set-up your account
This will never be displayed to others.
Your email will never be displayed to others.
Your password should be 6-10 characters long.

Choose a screen name
It will appear when you post your own reviews and recommendations.
A screen name protects your privacy

Tell us your children's ages
You'll see the movies, games, books, shows, music, and sites our editors select just for them. As your children get older, our picks will grow with them!Why we ask for this
We never display your children's names, (or nicknames) to anyone, but you. Providing your children's ages allows us to personalize information on our site, so you get better information, faster.
is
until
(optional)
is
until
is
until
is
until
is
until
is
until
Add another child

We can make Common Sense just right for you. With a little info about you and your family, you'll get the most out of our site.

Set-up your account
This will never be displayed to others.
Your email will never be displayed to others.
Your password should be 6-10 characters long.

Tell us your children's ages
You'll see the movies, games, books, shows, music, and sites our editors select just for them. As your children get older, our picks will grow with them!
Why we ask for this
We never display your children's names, (or nicknames) to anyone, but you. Providing your children's ages allows us to personalize information on our site, so you get better information, faster.
is
until
is
until
is
until
is
until
is
until
is
until
Add another child

Choose a screen name
It will appear when you post your own reviews and recommendations
A screen name protects your privacy
Register to add this school to your profile. You'll be able to see and share reviews from parents, teachers, and kids at your child's school.
I'm already a Common Sense member.
Kids under 13 must use a screen name