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Viva Laughlin

(Rated TV-14, Drama, Starring Hugh Jackman, Lloyd Owen, Madchen Amick, Where to watch: CBS)

  • 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

    Casino-set musical drama is an iffy gamble.

Why We Rated This iffy for Ages 14–18

The good stuff

  • Messages:

    Ripley is in search of the American dream, but isn't willing to sacrifice his family or his marriage for it. His business involves some shady characters who engage in gangster-like behavior. Most of the main cast members are Caucasian; Marcus is African-American. People of various ethnic and racial backgrounds are visible on the casino floor.
 

What to watch out for

  • Violence:

    Lots of references to gangster-like activity. A man is found shot to death. Blood visible, but no guns. Ripley threatens his daughter's boyfriend.

  • Sex:

    Hugging, kissing. and sexual innuendo. Bunny wears negligees, and women in skimpy attire are frequently visible on the casino floor and during some musical numbers. Many references to extramarital relationships.

  • Language:

    Relatively mild, including "hell" and "damn."

  • Consumerism:

    Various Las Vegas landmarks are visible. Lots of flashy cars, including makes like Mercedes Benz and BMW. Natalie drives a Chevy Avalanche. Songs performed on the show range from traditional Vegas tunes like "Viva Las Vegas" to various pop songs by artists like Debbie Harry.

  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Frequent consumption of hard alcohol, cigarettes, and cigars.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About Viva Laughlin

Parents need to know that this mediocre musical drama -- which revolves around a fast-talking man who's trying to achieve the American dream by opening up a casino -- has some strong sexual innuendo. Because of the casino setting, material wealth is frequently on display, as well as behavior commonly associated with the Las Vegas nightlife, including gambling, drinking, and smoking. Even though the main character is a good husband and father, his work connects him to some gangster-like people, and there's some crime-related violence, though it's not graphic.

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about how the show depicts gambling. Is it innocent fun, or something more serious? Do you think TV shows and movies glamorize gambling and the businesses that depend on it? Do you think it's more or less glamorous (or corrupt) in real life? Families can also discuss shows -- like this one -- that depart from typical genres/styles. Do TV dramas and musicals mix well? What kinds of things seem to work and not work on TV? Why?
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