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Prison Break

  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 16, age appropriate for kids over 18; suggested age 16.

  • Is it any good?

    3.0
  • Common Sense says

    Prison drama is too violent for young viewers.

Why We Rated This iffy for Ages 16–18

What to watch out for

  • Messages:

    Main character works outside the system to free his brother from jail.
  • Violence:

    On-screen shootings and stabbings, lots of punching, hitting with blunt objects.
  • Sex:

    Sexual threats from prisoners.
  • Language:

    Some mild profanity.
  • Consumerism:

    Not an issue.
  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Some smoking.

What Parents Need to Know

This review of Prison Break was written by Elliot Panek

Parents need to know that this show features some graphic violence, both inside and outside of the prison walls. Some episodes are much more violent than others are. It's occasionally bloody, and inmates occasionally terrorize women. Some lewd sexual comments are made. Criminals (both rightly and wrongly convicted) are portrayed in a sympathetic light.

Families Can Talk About

Talk to your kids about the media in their life. We have more tools and tips that can help
  • Families can talk about whether or not Michael's crime and subsequent attempt to break his brother out of jail are justified. What if Michael and Lincoln were friends instead of brothers? Would Michael still owe the same allegiance to him? Can "bad guys" also be role models? How does the show make us empathize with criminals?
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More on Prison Break

What’s the Story?

Structural engineer Michael Scofield (Wentworth Miller) is convinced that his brother, Lincoln Burrows (Dominic Purcell), has been wrongfully convicted of murdering the Vice President's brother. With Lincoln's execution date coming up, Michael robs a bank to get into jail alongside his brother so he can help him escape (he has intimate knowledge of the prison having had the blueprints for the jail tattooed on his torso). The brothers enlist the help of assorted crooks and cons in their elaborate plan to break out. On the outside, Lincoln's attorney (and ex-girlfriend) Veronica Donovan (Robin Tunney) tries to uncover the truth about the murder and is targeted by a shadowy cabal bent on using Burrows as their fall guy and intimidating anyone who gets in their way, including Burrows' 15-year-old son, LJ (Marshall Allman).

Is It Any Good?

Part mystery, part action drama, PRISON BREAK offers intricate plotting and shocking twists. The show is not afraid of killing off characters, portraying criminals as sympathetic, or linking the conspirators directly to a high-ranking government official -- just the sort of "edginess" one would expect from Fox. Its fast pace leaves little room for character development, and the intricacy of the plot may confuse less loyal viewers.

The show's appeal lies in watching someone try to break out of prison by using brains rather than brawn. Along with the intrigue of the corrupt government plot, it promises to be of interest to action drama fans. While kids are drawn to many action movies and shows, parents might want to exercise caution in allowing their kids to watch PRISON BREAK. It's far too violent for younger viewers, and should be reserved for older teens and adults only.

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Most Recent Reviews

  1. Kid Reviewer Age 12
    I rate this title iffy for age 12 and give it 5.0

    this tv show is amazing!!!!! u have to watch it its great!! lots of drama and addiction to it u want to see every thing of it! i love this tv show! all the seasons are great! i would recomended this 100%!!!

  2. Kid Reviewer Age 12
    I rate this title iffy for age 12 and give it 5.0

    this tv show is amazing!!!!! u have to watch it its great!! lots of drama and addiction to it u want to see every thing of it! i love this tv show! all the seasons are great! i would recomended this 100%!!!

  3. Teen Reviewer Age 17
    Lives in Pennsylvania
    I rate this title on for age 2 and give it 5.0

    BEST SHOW ON TELEVISIOn

    Have watched every episode and think its the best. This show always has you on the edge of your seat and looking forward to next weeks episode. That is what makes it the best. It has somthing for every type of person to enjoy

  4. Teen Reviewer Age 14
    Lives in Wisconsin
    I rate this title pause for age 0 and give it 4.0

    pretty good!

    Prisonbreak is a good show, but you shouldn't see it unless you're 14 or up. My parents watch it and they like it a lot, but I think it's a little violent. So you might want to hesitate if you're under 14, but otherwise, it's a good show!

  5. Adult Reviewer
    Lives in California
    I rate this title on for age 0 and give it 4.0

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