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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

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    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?
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