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Coolfuel

(Rated TV-G, Reality TV, Starring Shaun Murphy, Teresa Brett, Where to watch: Planet Green)

  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 5, age appropriate for kids over 8; suggested age 8.

  • Is it any good?

    4.0

  • Common Sense says

    Aussie's gas-free travels make for fun, informative TV.

Why We Rated This on for Ages 8 and Up

The good stuff

  • Messages:

    The series demonstrates that it's possible to find and use alternatives to gasoline on a daily basis. It also shows viewers the various ways that alternative fuels are already being used around the country.

  • Role models:

    Likable host Murphy cheerfully teaches viewers about harvesting and using alternative fuels.
 

What to watch out for

  • Violence:

    Occasional concerns about Murphy getting hit by a truck on the road and slamming into mountains in a wind glider. But luckily, none of these events ever happen.

  • Sex:

    On one occasion, Murphy is shown changing his pants from a distance (no nudity is shown). During his trip through New York City, he meets the underwear-clad  “Naked Cowboy."

  • Language:

    Not an issue.

  • Consumerism:

    Various local waste recycling plants and other alternative fuel outlets are featured. Logos for local artisans and co-op groups like “City Organics” are vaguely visible.

  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Not an issue.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About Coolfuel

Parents need to know that this fun, informative series -- which follows Australian Shaun Murphy as he travels across America in alternative fuel-powered vehicles -- is pretty mild overall. The only stuff you might want to watch out for are occasional discussions about safety and potential accidents and rare (nonsexual) glimpses of men in their underwear.

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about the media's role in educating people about issues like environmentalism and conservation. Where else can you learn about these issues?
  • Are alternative fuels being used to power things in your community? Which ones?
  • If you were to travel cross-country without gas, what kind of vehicle would you like to use? What kind of expertise would you need to build it?
Tools and tips that can help

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