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Scream Queens

(Rated TV-14, Reality TV, Starring John Gunn, Shawnee Smith, John Homa, 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?

    3.0

  • Common Sense says

    Actresses get sexy, scary for horror flick fame.

Why We Rated This iffy for Ages 14–18

What to watch out for

  • Messages:

    The women work hard to demonstrate that they have what it takes to get the part. But there's also lots of catty behavior among the actresses in between challenges, and the scenes force many of them to act in very stereotypical ways. The majority of the contestants are Caucasian; two are Asian, and one is African-American (her race becomes a subject of discussion).

  • Violence:

    Lots of blood-curling screaming, fake blood, gory imagery, chain saws, knives, hooks, medical tools, and other items used to simulate victims' torture. The actresses must play characters who physically fight back against serial killers; this action is seen as empowering. But they must act like bloody, brutalized victims at the same time. There's also lots of yelling and arguing between the actresses; physical confrontations occasionally break out between them.

  • Sex:

    The actresses must demonstrate that they're sexy enough for the part and are often asked to perform scenes that include strong sexual innuendo. They're also often required to wear skin-revealing outfits and/or perform nude scenes (though actual nudity is blocked out). Females "making out" are featured in some practice scenes. Occasional references to specific sexual acts.

  • Language:

    Audible language includes words like "hell," "bitch," "pissed," and "ass." Stronger curse words (like "dick" and "f--k") are bleeped out.

  • Consumerism:

    The series is a promotional vehicle for the Saw movie franchise, as well as Lionsgate Entertainment and Twisted Pictures. Music from bands like Thriving Ivy is featured in each episode.

  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Occasional alcohol consumption (cocktails, champagne).
 

What Parents Need to Know

About Scream Queens

Parents need to know that this reality series -- in which aspiring actresses compete for a role in a horror movie -- has lots of screaming, fake blood, gory imagery, and acting exercises in which the women are required to act as serial killer victims (albeit ones who can fight back). They're expected to perform "sexy" parts, dress in skimpy outfits, and perform in simulated nude scenes. Some practice scenes include same-sex kissing. Also expect plenty of iffy language (the strongest words are bleeped) and some drinking.

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about the appeal of horror films. What makes them entertaining to some people? Are horror films the same as slasher movies? If not, what's the difference? Families can also discuss the challenges of pursuing a professional acting career. Do you think winning a competition like this can actually help aspiring actresses break into the industry, or is it just a one-shot deal? What do you think the contestants motivations are to be on this show?
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