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Phenomenon
(Rated TV-PG, Reality TV, Starring Criss Angel, Uri Geller, Tim Vincent, Where to watch: NBC, Online)
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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 11, age appropriate for kids over 15; suggested age 13. -
Is it any good?
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Common Sense says
Mentalists' acts are fascinating -- but dangerous.
Why We Rated This 
for Ages 13–15
What to watch out for
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What Parents Need to Know
About Phenomenon
Parents need to know that there's good reason for the multiple warnings that accompany this reality competition series, as the mentalists often do dangerous (even life-threatening) things as part of their act -- like sticking their extremities in animal traps or playing Russian roulette with nail guns. Some contestants talk almost excitedly about getting a rush from conquering pain and cheating death. Other acts touch on the ideas that people can defy the laws of gravity, read minds, and talk to the dead. Some of the acts -- which are designed to amaze adults -- may confuse, frustrate, and even frighten kids when they can't be adequately explained. Be prepared to remind young aspiring magicians and illusionists not to try the stunts at home.
Read our full review by Emily Ashby
Families Can Talk About
- Families can talk about the supernatural. Do you believe in ESP, mysticism, and paranormal activity? Do you think some people are gifted in this area and others aren't? How else could the mentalists' stunts be explained? Why do you think they put themselves in danger so often? Families can also discuss whether a show like this is "responsible" television. Do you think the show's many warnings adequately describe the dangerous acts acts? Will these warnings dissuade kids from trying similar stunts? Does celebrating this type of entertainment diminish the dangers involved?
Our Members Say
Most Recent Reviews
- I rate this title on for age 2 and give it
- I rate this title on for age 2 and give it
- I rate this title iffy for age 2 and give it
(Sarcasm) oh yeah, a REAL phenomenon alright...
I was expecting SO SO much out of this show. I love Criss Angel's show, and the premise of this reality competition was so odd it just HAD to work. But no, it was terrible. Why? Because the so-called magic was either totally staged, or totally unamusing. Overall, I would stay away from this show unless you have ALOT of patience for these types of things. What was NBC thinking?
- I rate this title on for age 2 and give it
I have to say great!
The show is so awsome. I watched the premier and it rocked. The onlny problem is I am not old inof to vote online. Oh well. You can't have everything! Watch the show. It builds up a lot of suspence. The have ambulenes outside just in case something happens. Young kids must think it will be a little scary so I think only 9 and up should watch. And I'm a kid so I should know. And I remeber when I was in third grade. Nobodt in my class would think this is bad. Parents would think differently because they think there kids can't handle it but I'm pretty shore they can.
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