Up Close and Dangerous
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Is it age appropriate?
About our ratings -
Is it any good?
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Common Sense says
Animal-encounter tales may scare the very young.
Why We Rated This
for Ages 8 and Up
The good stuff
What to watch out for
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Violence & scariness:
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Sexy stuff:
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Language:
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Consumerism:
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Drinking, drugs, & smoking:
What Parents Need to Know
This review of Up Close and Dangerous was written by Emily Ashby
Parents need to know that this wildlife show features potentially frightening stories about dangerous encounters with wildlife, as told by the filmmakers who survived them. Film footage accompanies the tales, and although the actual attacks aren't usually shown (if they are, they only show the victim being banged around a bit), there are some intimidating shots of charging animals, gaping jaws, and menacing teeth. This definitely isn't one for young viewers, and parents will probably find themselves explaining a lot of animal behavior to grade schoolers (as well as reminding them never to approach wild animals or domesticated animals without the owner's say-so).
Families Can Talk About
- Families can talk about wildlife behavior. How do animals defend themselves? How do they defend their families and territories? How do filmmakers safely enter the animals' habitats to observe them? What can you learn from their stories? Why is it important to understand animal behavior? Why shouldn't you approach wild animals?
More on Up Close and Dangerous
What’s the Story?
Is It Any Good?
Frightening tales and sometimes-aggressive wildlife scenes rule out this show for viewers too little to understand basic animal behavior, but its educational value makes it a good family viewing choice for young tweens and up. Parents will want to reiterate the show's overriding message of respect for wildlife and remind their kids of the danger of approaching any strange animal.

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