| 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. |
Parents need to know that this futuristic cartoon centers on a team of teens who protect the world from a would-be evil dictator and his legion of thugs. The two sides square off in airborne battles, shooting at (and sometimes downing) each other’s supersonic jets, so there’s the implication of some deaths, but nothing is shown. Cartoon violence aside, this series offers tweens a storyline of more substance than many other TV shows for the age group thanks to the dual storylines of Johnny’s search for the truth behind his father’s disappearance and his own growth into a renowned pilot. The show also reinforces the value of teamwork, perseverance, and self-confidence.
In the year 2067, the skies are home to the cities of the future, and the airspace between them is filled with the world’s unifying sport, A.R.C. (Aeronautical Racing Circuit). A.R.C. pilots are the rock stars of the day, and few are more famous than teen phenoms Trey, Zak, Maggie, and newcomer Johnny (voiced by Mark Camacho). But what no one knows is that these talented pilots have a more important mission than winning races -- they’re also trusted with saving the world from the evil intentions of General Raven and his legion of followers, Black Cloud.
In a tween TV market that’s saturated with shows that are light on content and heavy on product tie-ins, METAJETS is a refreshing change of pace for both parents and kids. Johnny is an average teen who earns a spot on an elite team of flyers -- but despite his natural talents, he takes nothing for granted and must prove his worth to his teammates and his captain. What’s more, his new position offers him a new connection to his father -- whom, Johnny discovers, disappeared while flying for Metajets as well. Both storylines offer teaching moments in teamwork, perseverance, and strength of character.
Parents’ only concern with the show will be its frequent violence, which in this case plays out in firestorms between warring aircraft. Although the exchanges can be intense and some of the planes do explode, the violence is downplayed, and no injuries are ever shown.
Families can talk about setting and achieving goals. Tweens: What goals do you have for your future? How will you work toward them?
Parents and tweens can also discuss loss. How does loss affect you? How do you cope with the loss of a loved one? How does loss change our perspective on life?
What role does violence play in this series? How does it compare to what you've seen in other animated TV shows and movies?
What factors are important in constructing a good team? How can the members’ differences become a strength? What successful teams have you been a part of? What are the benefits of working with a team?
| Topics: | magic and fantasy, sports and martial arts, adventures |
| TV rating: | TV-Y7-FV |
| Network: | Cartoon Network |
| Cast: | Mark Camacho |
| Genre: | Kids' Animation |