 | ON: Content is age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | PAUSE: Know your child; some content may not be right for some kids. |
 | OFF: Not age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | NOT FOR KIDS: Not appropriate for kids any age. |
This American Life
- Showtime
- Genre: Reality TV
Common Sense Media says
Compelling true stories from all walks of life.
Parents say
Kids say
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that this fascinating, thought-provoking documentary series (which is based on the NPR mainstay) covers a wide range of topics and includes interviews with people from virtually all walks of life, making episode content difficult to predict. Depending on the topics -- and the participants -- alcohol and tobacco use is shown, partial nudity is possible, and language (which is never edited) can be strong. While the content probably isn't new to teens, it's definitely on the iffy side for anyone younger. On the positive side, the unscripted stories about everyday lives promote human connectedness and empathy.
What's the story?
A politician sets out to win an election without telling a single lie, scientists find themselves in high demand after stumbling onto a method for erasing memories, a 63-year-old woman sets out on a new career path -- these are the stories of everyday people, presented in stark first-person accounts in the compelling series THIS AMERICAN LIFE. The quasi-documentary series is a TV version of the award-winning National Public Radio show of the same name. Hosted and produced by Ira Glass -- who has led the radio show's unique brand of storytelling for nearly 15 years -- the TV version groups the stories into thematic episodes, profiling two or three related tales each time.
Is it any good?
As the interviewer, Glass takes a backseat to his subjects' first-person accounts, interjecting only occasionally with a question or comment and adding thought-provoking voice-over narration throughout. His honest, introspective style and the show's captivating cinematography combine to support the sincere emotions of these funny, sad, curious, and heartwarming stories. The reality of This American Life may well entertain, inspire, and touch you in a way that few other shows do. If your teens are ready for intermittent strong language and possible nudity, ask them to join you while you watch. You'll be amazed at the stories and gain new perspective on people of all walks of life.
What families can talk about
Families can talk about dealing with adversity. Teens: When have you faced difficulty in your life? How did it affect you? How did you respond? Who did you turn to for guidance? Did any of the show's stories inspire you? How? Family members can also share their own personal stories with each other. What experiences from your past would fit the theme of the episode? If you had to compile an episode, what would it be called?
- Show:
- All members
- Parents
- Teens & kids
AGE
Fine for younger than 14, too
We listen to TAL podcasts in the car all the time and on trips for my kids that are younger than 14 (they're 9 and 12.) I think it's fine for them - there are so many amazing stories and it creates lots to discuss and talk about.
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| TV rating: | TV-14 |
| Network: | Showtime |
| Cast: | Ira Glass |
| Genre: | Reality TV |
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