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Lobster Wars (Discovery Channel)

common sense media says

Deep-sea rivalry plays out in rough reality show.

parents & educators say
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What parents need to know

Parents need to know that this reality series about competing fishing crews includes some rough language (words like "f--k" are bleeped; "piss" and "damn" aren't), as well as some iffy pranks between crew members (one jumps on another's back and simulates a sex act). There are also some dangerous moments at sea. That said, most of the horseplay and language are of the "boys being boys" variety and isn't gratuitous. And the show does offer an interesting look at a culture that most viewers won't be familiar with.

Positive messages: The crews are hardworking. Captains/skippers share information and usually demonstrate respect for each other, although -- in the name of competition -- some provide misinformation or cut another boat's fishing lines. Most crewmembers are Caucasian males, though the crew of the Timothy Michael includes one woman.
Violence: Rough waters crash into boats and their crews. The competition is a turf war on the open seas; crews send "warning shots" to other boats that "violate" their territory.
Sex: Some playful behavior includes mooning the camera, but the person's backside is blurred. One man jumps on the back of another and simulates a sexual act. These incidents are presented as crude pranks, not sexually explicit acts.
Language: Not surprisingly, these fishermen use some salty language, including "piss", "damn," and "hell". Stronger words, like "f--k" and "bulls--t," are bleeped out.
Consumerism: Brief descriptions of New England towns, including Newport, RI, and Hyannisport, MA.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Visible cigarette smoking. Discussion of drinking, and alcoholic beverages are sometimes shown.
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More on Lobster Wars

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
Families can talk about the appeal of shows like this, Ice Road Truckers, and Deadliest Catch. What's so fascinating about getting a glimpse of these dangerous jobs? Do you think these shows are more or less realistic than other reality series? What do you think compels people to work in these professions? Families can also discuss how traditions and superstitions influence the fishing culture. Where did these traditions come from? Despite the influx of science and technology in the fishing industry, why do fisherman still honor old-time fishing lore?

What's the story?

What's the story?
LOBSTER WARS documents the journeys of five lobster boats as they compete for the biggest haul in the ice-cold waters of the North Atlantic. The reality series follows the crews of the Dragon Lady, the Timothy Michael, the Direction, the Rachel Leah, and the William Bowe as they set out on a fishing trip to Georges Bank, the winter's most profitable lobster grounds. Crew members battle bad weather and rough seas in order to fight for the best spots to lay their traps. The rivalry grows fierce as the number of lobster boats increases ... while the crustacean supply ebbs.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 

While the competition between the boats for a profitable haul is the show's main theme, it also offers an honest portrayal of how difficult it really is to earn a living at sea. Rotting fish, grueling hours of work in freezing temperatures, and disappointingly small catches are all part of the job. Captains must work to keep a hired crew together while simultaneously working to keep their boats -- and their businesses -- afloat.

The crewmen (and one crew woman) swear like -- go figure -- sailors, but they're hard workers who have a healthy appreciation for the traditions and superstitions that are a rich part of life on the high seas. Rookie fishermen are expected to learn from the more experienced ones. Small rituals are conducted to bring luck. And, above all, the power of the ocean is always respected.

TV themes & details

TV Details
TV Rating: TV-PG
Network: Discovery Channel
Cast: Keith Sultzbach, Mike Palombo, Scott Christopher
Genre: Reality TV
Where to watch: Discovery Channel
This review was written by Melissa Camacho
 
 

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What parents & educators say

Most useful reviews by all members

capecodbill
adult
 
What a bunch of losers.
From the arrogant captains of the highliners to the loser captain of the Timothy Michael, I can't say I have seen a bigger bunch of nobodys in my life. Your ocean? give me a break.
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helped me decide (9) | had useful details (8) | read my mind (8)
superbubbadude
adult
 
Appreciation
A good program that shows us how much work it takes to being us that great lobster dinner that most of us like so well. I have nothing but admiration for these guys out there doing it. Wish I was with you.
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helped me decide (7) | had useful details (8) | read my mind (8)
captainswife
adult
 
My husband is one the Captain of the Willaim Bowe and it is a wonderful way for us to see what life is really like for him out there. We've heard lots of storys, but its a great forum for his kids to now see what its all about. Don't forget, they are able to see lots of sea life that most of us pay to see in an aquarium.
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helped me decide (8) | had useful details (8) | read my mind (6)

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