Mega Beasts (Discovery Channel)
common sense media says
Impressive CGI offers glimpse into ancient creatures' lives.
parents & educators say
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that this series’ focus on ferocious prehistoric beasts means that there are lots of confrontations between the computer-generated images of the predators and their prey, whom they bite and disembody -- usually with plenty of bloody (though it's all re-created). There are also occasionally additional live-action video clips of modern animals hunting. That aside, there’s plenty of educational content in this intriguing show, and the material is relatable since it references modern regions that are rich in prehistoric evidence and current creatures that resemble extinct species. Expect a few references to and images of breeding practices, but nothing too eyebrow-raising.
Positive role models:
The CGI animals can't really be considered role models, either positively or negatively.
Violence:
Lots of scenes show CGI-replicated prehistoric beasts killing and eating their prey, and the process is often bloody -- though not overly graphic. Occasionally the comparative content also calls for live-action scenes of animals like lions taking down gazelles and other prey.
Sex:
Occasional discussion of breeding practices, in some cases accompanied by illustrations of creatures mating. In one scene, for instance, a large sea beast rests atop its partner as the narrator likens its practices to those of modern reptiles.
Language:
Very rare use of "hell," as in "a reptile from hell."
Consumerism:
Not applicable.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking:
Not applicable.
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Most useful reviews by all members
Kronosaurus
teen, 14 years old
teen, 14 years old
The special effects are all that this highly repetitive mockery of science has going for it.
This hour-long show is very repetitive. The commentary on the size and scariness of prehistoric creatures is sprinkled throughout each episode, never really offering much new material after each commercial break. But that's not what bothers me. I am irritated by all of the show's inaccuracies. The producers don't really seem to care if the viewer knows anything about the subject, or if they will take every word for true. For instance, they show Spinosaurus eating a dinosaur the size of its head in one bite. The problem is that the dinosaur Spinosaurus ate was half its size in real life. Also, they show Spinosaurus throwing its weight around, as if they never thought it might get badly wounded. Would a crocodile throw its weight around? No, of course not. It would hide in the water, wait for its prey to come near and then catch it. Spinosaurus doubtless did the same. They even show scaly raptors! They've been known to have been feathered since the late nineties! Teachers, do not show your students this when you don't have a lesson at the ready. There are much more informative choices out there (Planet Dinosaur, NOVA, National Geographic specials and even Dinosaur Train are all excellent picks). That said, the show's graphics are actually quite good (but still far from cutting-edge). I occasionally watch the show when I want to see good recreations of prehistoric life. Sadly, that is the show's lone strong point. I am sad that this is being called "science". I am very disappointed in the program as it is.
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