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The Rock Life

(Rated TV-14, Reality TV, Starring Cisco Adler, Rainbow Jeramy, Alex Orbison, Where to watch: VH1, Online)

  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 14, age appropriate for kids over 99; suggested age 14.

  • Is it any good?

    2.0

  • Common Sense says

    Rockers' lives are rowdy, but still dull viewing.

Why We Rated This iffy for Ages 14–18

The good stuff

  • Messages:

    The series focuses less on the group's efforts to produce a hit record than on their outrageous behavior (these guys aren't exactly ideal teen role models). But it also highlights their friendship. The band members are all Caucasian males; some are from upper-class backgrounds.
 

What to watch out for

  • Violence:

    Some pushing and shoving between band members. Cisco incites a riot during a concert.

  • Sex:

    Strong sexual innuendo, including discussions about genitalia and intercourse, using words like "balls" and "getting laid." Some band members are seen taking their clothes off on stage; at least one strips naked (though no nudity is visible). Scantily clad female "groupies" are sometimes visible.

  • Language:

    Frequent use of words like "ass." Stronger swear words (mostly "f--k") are bleeped out.

  • Consumerism:

    The show is a promotional vehicle for Whitestarr; its members and its music are central to the show. Famous venues, such as The Viper Room, are sometimes featured.

  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Reflects the "rock and roll lifestyle." Frequent consumption of alcohol and tobacco products. Some cast members are shown drinking excessive amounts of liquor and engaging in aggressive and/or sexual behavior as a result. Discussions about marijuana and harder drug use. Orbi is a recovering alcoholic/drug addict.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About The Rock Life

Parents need to know that this reality show focuses on the wild behavior -- and interpersonal relationships -- of a fame-seeking rock band. Group members drink, smoke, talk about sex (and appreciate their scantily clad groupies...), and swear (stronger words, like "f--k," are bleeped). While it might be appealing to aspiring rock musicians, the series offers little insight into the business itself, choosing to document the rock and roll lifestyle instead.

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about what it's like be in a rock band. What are some of the challenges that musicians face when they're trying to get their big break? How long do you think it took many now-famous bands to reach their current level of stardom? (And how could you find out for sure if you wanted to know?) How many bands never get famous? Why? Families can also discuss the lifestyle typically associated with being in a rock band. Does it have to be about drugs and sex? Do you think Whitestarr would have a TV show if the band members didn't behave the way they do?
Tools and tips that can help

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Most Recent Reviews

  1. Adult Reviewer
    angeleyes222
    Lives in Pennsylvania
    I rate this title on for age 13 and give it 5.0

    Love it!

    I think The Rock Life is a great show! I think the band is amazing. Its a real life band that wants to make it big. Yes, they talk about sex, alcohol and stuff like that but every other show or movie is just the same. I just bought the album and its is awesome. Go out and buy it open your minds give them a chance.

    This review...

    Helped me decide | Had useful details | Read my mind
    Flag as inappropriate

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