| 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. |
Parents need to know that this holiday special is fun for tweens, whether they’re already fans of Big Time Rush or not. The story is hardly realistic, but that won’t matter to kid viewers, who will revel in the guys’ antics anyway. If your kids aren’t already familiar with guest stars Fabio, Snoop Dogg, and Miranda Cosgrove, they may take an interest in them after the show, but other than that -- and a few kisses under the mistletoe -- there’s nothing here that’s worrisome for tweens, and the story’s message about the joy of spreading Christmas cheer is jolly for all.
‘Twas the day before Christmas, and the band members of Big Time Rush were scurrying about crossing off last-minute to-dos before heading home to Minnesota for the holiday. Everything’s on schedule until their Scrooge-y boss, Arthur Griffin (Matt Reidy), drops the bomb that they can’t leave until they’ve written and recorded three Christmas songs, two of which must feature guest singers. It will take a Christmas miracle (or three) to get the job done, but luck is in their corner when stars like Miranda Cosgrove and Snoop Dogg practically fall into their laps at the last minute.
BIG TIME CHRISTMAS is the kind of holiday special that tweens will like -- it’s fast-paced, funny, and full of outlandish scenarios. Kendall (Kendall Schmidt), James (James Maslow), Carlos (Carlos Pena, Jr.), and Logan (Logan Henderson) are their usual charismatic selves, and the addition of big-name guests doesn’t hurt the show’s appeal at all. What’s more, this show doesn’t feel like a last-minute addition to bolster interest in a series or promote its musical features. There’s a truly likable quality about it that makes it a success even as its own entity.
Entertainment aside, the show boasts sweet messages about Christmas spirit and making the holiday memorable, regardless of circumstances that seem to stand in the way. And in the end, the guys set aside their own desires and pull together to make the holiday special for an unlikely friend.
Families can talk about holiday traditions. What are some of your favorites? How do they reflect your family’s personality, culture, or religious beliefs? How do you feel when your traditions are upset? What does Christmas spirit mean to you?
Tweens: Had you heard of Miranda Cosgrove and Snoop Dogg before this show? Did you like their roles in this show? Are you more inclined to seek out other work now? How is this an example of embedded advertising?
Tweens: What opportunities exist for you to brighten someone else’s day? When have you done something selfless for someone else? How does it make you feel? Why is it important to help others?
| Topics: | friendship, holidays, music and sing-along |
| TV rating: | TV-G |
| Network: | Nickelodeon |
| Cast: | James Maslow, Kendall Schmidt, Logan Henderson |
| Genre: | Comedy |