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Quantum Leap

(Rated TV-PG, Science fiction , Starring Scott Bakula, Dean Stockwell, Deborah Pratt, Where to watch: Syfy, DVD, Online)
  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 8, age appropriate for kids over 12; suggested age 12.
  • Is it any good?

    4.0
  • Common Sense says

    Classic sci-fi series hops and skips through time.

Why We Rated This on for Ages 12 and Up

The good stuff

  • Messages:

    Sam's goal in each episode is to right a wrong done in the past, and he strives for honesty and treats everyone he meets with respect. His upstanding nature helps counteract Al, who can come across as a tad sleazy and sex-obsessed.
 

What to watch out for

  • Violence:

    Depending on the episode's plot, the show may include gunfire or fistfights.
  • Sex:

    Kissing and mild groping scenes, as well as some suggestive language and insinuating looks. Al is an oversexed single guy who comments on women's figures and talks about his need to "get some."
  • Language:

    Infrequent uses of very mild words like "hell."
  • Consumerism:

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

    Most episodes show characters smoking, as Sam's travels take him through the 1950s, '60s and '70s, when it was more prevalent in public places. Scenes set in social situations also include alcohol, but only adults partake.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About Quantum Leap

Parents need to know that this sci-fi series revolves around time travel and the idea that a visitor from the future can return to alter history. Each episode is set in a different time and place and features a new ensemble cast (aside from the two stars), which might make it difficult for younger kids to follow. The ever-changing storylines often tackle mature topics, including extramarital relationships, unplanned pregnancy, and murder, just to name a few. Despite a bit of pause-worthy content, this show is a thoughtful, engrossing adventure that older tweens and young tweens will love.

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about making amends for past faults. Have you ever done something that you still regret? What was it? If you could go back, how would you do things differently? Families also can discuss scientific advancements. What kinds of things are possible now that weren't 20 years ago? How have science and technology made our lives easier or more enjoyable? What do you think will change in the future because of science?

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Our Members Say

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Most Recent Reviews

  1. Teen Reviewer Age 15
    Lives in California
    I rate this title iffy for age 9 and give it 4.0
    My concerns are:
    • Excessive violence

    • My highlights are:
    • Positive messages

    Cool Sci-Fi Show That The Whole Family Can Enjoy.

    I think this show is very interesting and fun. You never know what place your going to end up next. Sometimes it can get a little violent, but it's nothing kids can't handle. And the language is very mild. Though there is some sexual dialogue, kids ages 9-10 will be able to understand it. But in season 1, there is one episode parents should be aware about. It's called "The Color of Truth, it takes place in the '50's when Sam leaps into a black man; where blacks were treated horribly back then. And they use the N word a few times (at least on the DVD) and the violence is a little more heavy. But other than that, I think it's a great family Sci-Fi show that kids and adults will love.

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