 | 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. |
Dark Angel
Common Sense Media says
Post-apocalyptic action drama features tough, smart heroine.
Parents say
Kids say
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that this dark sci-fi series centers on a genetically engineered superhuman who fights crime, but is very violent in the process. Bred as a superior fighting machine, the main character grew up without a strong moral compass and now attempts to live a "good" life. However, as she fights crime she also participates in it -- stealing, fighting, shooting guns, and bribing authority figures. Frequent flashbacks to Max's childhood in a military compound add a disturbing element that might upset sensitive viewers. Also, expect some strong language ("ass," "bitch").
What's the story?
At the age of 9, Max Guevera (Jessica Alba), a genetically engineered
superhuman, escapes from the military compound where she’s been held for her entire life. Ten years later, Max is squatting in post-apocalyptic Seattle, where she blends in as a bike messenger. After meeting cyber journalist Logan Cale, Max partners with him to combat injustices while trying to discover her real identity and her “siblings” who also escaped from the compound.
Is it any good?
DARK ANGEL creator James Cameron offers a richly imagined view of a post-apocalyptic near future where the world has been thrown into
chaos thanks to a terrorist bomb. Alba's character Max, who has been genetically enhanced by shady
governent agents to become a superior fighting machine shows real
development over the course of the series, growing into a better friend
and more moral person. As more information about Max's enhancements roll
out, viewers are treated to a richer portrait of the main character,
learning exactly how and why she acts as she does. While definitely part
of the "girls kick ass" school of television dramas (see Alias and Buffy the Vampire Slayer), Max's sensitive, introspective side also emerges as the series progresses.
While the dialogue sometimes falls flat, overall the show is well-scripted and well acted, and Alba does an excellent job of carrying the series. Dark Angel isn't perfect by any stretch of the imagination, but it is compelling television that teen sci-fi fans will enjoy. Younger kids, especially those who are particularly concerned about real-life terrorism, may find the series unsettling.
What families can talk about
Families can talk about violence. If Max is using violence to combat violence is she any better than the people she is working to defeat? Why or why not? Do the ends justify the means?
How does the show develop tension or a sense of fear? Does the use of children change your reaction to tense scenes? Do real-life concerns about terrorism make this show more powerful?
Action series frequently used to portray women as weak and helpless, but
in recent years there have been many shows in which the female
characters are as tough as any guy. What do you think of this shift?
There aren't any reviews yet. Be the first to review this title below.
| TV rating: | NR |
| Network: | Syfy |
| Cast: | Jessica Alba, Michael Weatherly, Valarie Rae Miller |
| Genre: | Drama |
Review It
Great alternatives handpicked by our editors
Already seen it? What do you think?
More from Common Sense Media
Top advice and articles
