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Men in Trees (ABC)

common sense media says

Smart, sassy dramedy is fine for teens.

parents & educators say
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What parents need to know

Parents need to know that this series' main character, Marin, has a tough exterior that belies her sensitive side. That said, viewers do see her crave cigarettes when she's stressed and down vodka shots to calm her nerves. Since the majority of the characters are men and women in their 30s in relationships or looking for love, the show has its share of post-coital scenes, with unmarried partners relaxing in bed.

Positive messages: Teaches that what you see often isn't what you get and that it's important not to make assumptions about people or places before you have all the information. It could be argued that main character Marin isn't the best role model, given her obssession with relationships.
Violence: Not applicable.
Sex: Scenes in bed featuring unmarried partners. In one episode, the main character falls through the ice and must warm up in her underwear next to an equally scantily clad man.
Language: Pretty mild: "sucks," "damn," "hell," "balls" (as a punchline), etc.
Consumerism: The main character misses the luxuries of life in Manahattan.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Social drinking; the main character smokes. Many scenes take place in the local bar.
Our ratings and reviews are informed by child development guidelines. Learn more.

More on Men in Trees

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
Families can talk about what makes a good relationship. How do people's prejudices hold them back from accepting someone else the way he or she is? What role does trust play in a partnership? Why is it important to be honest with your boyfriend/girlfriend and treat him or her with respect?

What's the story?

What's the story?
In the endearing dramedy MEN IN TREES, a relationship coach/bestselling author finds that she must reexamine herself and everything she thought she knew about dating when her engagement unravels and she suddenly finds herself relocating to a male-dominated Alaskan town. Anne Heche stars as Marin Frist, who not only has a successful career advising the lovelorn, but a handsome fiancé, Graham (Tobias Slezak), to boot. But when, during a trip to a Elmo, Alaska, Marin discovers that Graham's been cheating on her with a close friend, she realizes that she doesn't know that much about men after all. Though Marin initially does everything in her power to get back to Manhattan as soon as possible, Elmo's easy-going ways grow on her, and she decides to stay a while and slow down while she reexamines her life. (Yes, it does sound more than a little like Northern Exposure, but isn't imitation the sincerest form of flattery?)

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 

Well-acted by a cast that includes Derek Richardson as Patrick, a sweet and devoted fan of Marin's books; Abraham Benrubi as Ben, the sophisticated local bartender; James Tupper as Jack, the handsome environmentalist who regularly and playfully spars with Marin; and Seana Kofoed as Jane, Marin's editor who comes for the occasional visit, Men in Trees (the title refers to the signs found all over bucolic Elmo that warn pedestrians of the workers strapped to branches above) is full of cute scenes sure to have veterans of the dating scene smiling.

Executive produced by Sex and the City writer Jenny Bicks, the show doesn't really break any truly new creative ground (not only has the Alaska angle been done before, but so has the navel-gazing, lovelorn gal). But it's a clever, engaging series that explores the search for love and tackles the question on the minds of many modern singles: What am I doing wrong? And the subject matter is given a light touch thanks to witty writing, making Men in Trees fine fare for older teens looking for intelligent programming.

TV themes & details

TV Details
TV Rating: TV-PG
Network: ABC
Cast: Abraham Benrubi, Anne Heche, James Tupper
Genre: Drama
Where to watch: ABC
This review was written by Lucy Maher
 
 

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Most useful reviews by all members

CAMITFan
adult
 
Best Show Ever!
I LOVE this show!!! Thank you to the writers, actors and creators!! I wish it would find a solid time slot and stay there and be advertised!! Give this one a try, you'll love it!!
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DKWatson66
adult
 
A perfect Friday Night Get-a-Way at home!
I absolutely LOVE this show. I love the actors, the scenery, the story plots. I adore Jack & Marin as a couple and trying to find their way to each other. I hope this show runs for many seasons! All the actors are perfect for their individual roles. It's funny, it makes my laugh, cry and sign with pure joy!! Enjoy and tell your friends about it. I have two young sons and it's not for them, It's for ME! (and my husband, too). ha ha
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helped me decide (2) | had useful details (2) | read my mind (2)

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