 | 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. |
The Mentalist
Common Sense Media says
Mature crime drama with unique premise and lots of violence.
Parents say
QUALITY
Kids say
QUALITY
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that this crime series has scenes of bloody violence, including images of people getting stunned, shot, and bludgeoned to death, as well as things like symbols painted on walls in blood. Characters also frequently discuss grim topics like serial killings and other violent behavior. Expect plenty of strong language ("bitch," "hell," "bastard") and some strong sexual discussion, as well as some drinking.
What's the story?
Patrick Jane (Simon Baker) is a former self-proclaimed medium who now uses his sharp observation skills to help a team of agents from the fictitious California Bureau of Investigation (CBI) solve serious crimes in Sacramento. The one-time celeb -- who now claims to have faked his paranormal abilities -- impresses agents like Kimball Cho (Tim Kang), Wayne Rigsby (Owain Yeoman), and rookie Grace Van Pelt (Amanda Righetti) with his charming, rather theatrical ability to solve high-profile cases. But his unorthodox approach and often reckless disregard for the rules doesn't sit well with Senior Agent Teresa Lisbon (Robin Tunney). And throughout it all, the seemingly self-absorbed Jane must find a way to cope with his own tragic past.
Is it any good?
Like most other crime dramas, THE MENTALIST spends a lot of time discussing the particulars of unsolved cases. Early seasons of the show also focus on disproving the existence of the paranormal, which sometimes lead to debates about the existence of God, an afterlife, and other spiritually-oriented topics. However, later episodes move beyond this, relying on Jane's keen understanding of human behavior to help each story unfold.
It isn't the best written show, but its unique premise, coupled with some interesting cases and Jane's trademark dry humor is what makes this series successful. But it is also quite violent and has generally mature content. Older teens and adults who like this kind of show may find the characters and subject matter compelling, but it's definitely not for younger viewers.
What families can talk about
Families can talk about how the show portrays psychics. How have other TV series (both dramas and reality shows) and movies depicted them? Do you think real-life psychics fill similar roles solving crimes? Also, do you think well-known real-life psychics have paranormal gifts, or are they just good observers or magicians?
Is this crime drama any different from others? What does it do better or worse than the others? Why do you think people enjoy watching crime stories?
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- Teens & kids
AGE
overallview
The show the mentalist does not send out a positive message to people as it is mainly about murder and Jane's own private case of finding red John a serial killer. The show gives children a message that revenge is a good idea. The mentalist does contain some violent scenes but nothing like criminal minds! There is quite a lot of language in the mentalist although I do not find in offense parents may not like to expose there children to it. There is the at least one scene in each episode where alchol is consumed and tobacco is mentioned.
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AGE
Amazing Show
The Mentalist is one of my favorite shows! It's so addicting, and once you start watching it, you won't be able to stop. Each episode is filled with suspence. As for violence and language, the violence is not too bad, but almost every episode features a crime scene, and/or a shooting, but nothing too graphic. The language is very infrequent, and not too bad. If you don't already watch this show I highly suggest that you start!
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AGE
Best show EVER!
I can honestly say that The MENTALIST is my favorite show on television! The way Jane solves cases (through the use of observation) is a good way to get kids to think and observe the world around them. His sense of humor is also hilarious! Although there is violence, there's not as much as, say, the CSIs (my other favorite shows). HIGHLY recommend this for anybody 14 and up!
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Kid, 11 years old
March 27, 2011
AGE
really cool
this is my first crime drama and i wasnt disapointed.jane is a great role model,smart and kind.some salty langue and seances of blood but its still my fav tv show
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AGE
Perfect for older teens but not for younger kids or tweens
It doesn't matter what you all say, but i think lisbon and her team are great role models, they are all smart, beautiful, sophisticated women who have a great life in what they do.nYes it might have a lot of violence and some sex but thats alright because the good bits outweigh the bad
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AGE
LOVE IT!!
prbbly my fav. show!!! really good and gripping! there is som blood and violence and dead bodies. the dead bodies usually com in the start and the action in the end. simon baker is awesome!!!
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Kid, 12 years old
November 29, 2011
AGE
The Mentalist 101
The Menatlist is an amazing show! If you're the kind of person who likes mysteries and instense moments, you'll definetly love this show! There is some shooting and language, but really not as much compared to Bones or anything. Thanks for reading! :)
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Kid, 12 years old
July 20, 2011
AGE
An awesome show!
Simon Baker is a great actor and Pactrick is a great observer.
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AGE
Great TV show!
I love this TV show! I think it discusses real life issues, it's not like this stuff doesn't happen in real life. I realize that the murders can seem brutal, but my little brother (who's 9) and my sister (who's 11) love the show. I think you might have to be a little mature to understand and comprehend everything. But, the charactors are awesome! Go Simon Baker!
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| TV rating: | TV-14 |
| Network: | CBS |
| Cast: | Robin Tunney, Simon Baker, Tim Kang |
| Genre: | Drama |
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