Common Sense Media Review
By Melissa Camacho
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Racing reality show is a little too edgy for young kids.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 14+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
What's the Story?
HEARTLAND THUNDER follows four modified dirt-track racers during the racing season at Kansas City's Lakeside Speedway. The drivers -- including welder Tom Charles, his hot-tempered son Dan Charles, Tim Karrick, and Justin Boney -- spend all of their free time and money modifying cars and preparing for their Friday night races. Their love for the sport, as well as the long-standing rivalries between them, keeps each committed to becoming the fastest racer of the season.
Is It Any Good?
Heartland Thunder presents an interesting look at the dirt-track racing culture, which defines itself as a blue-collar pastime that celebrates fast cars, high speeds, and big egos. As a result, the show includes lots of discussions about the cost of outfitting the racers' cars, as well as high-speed crashes and unsportsmanlike conduct -- both on and off the track.
People who like cars and racing will probably be drawn to the drama on display here, as well as the behind-the-scenes excitement during the actual races. But what they'll probably appreciate the most is the passion that the featured drivers have for the sport -- as well as the sacrifices they make to participate in it.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about sportsmanship. What does it mean to be a good sport?
Does athletes' sportsmanship impact the way that sports are played? How does it impact the way that a sport is viewed in the media?
Are the drivers featured in this show good role models? Why or why not?
TV Details
- Premiere date : June 21, 2010
- Cast : Dan Charles , Thom Charles , Tim Karrick
- Network : Discovery Channel
- Genre : Reality TV
- TV rating :
- Last updated : October 4, 2022
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