 | 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. |
MI-5
- BBC America
- Genre: Drama
Common Sense Media says
Violent British terror drama raises big questions.
Parents say
Kids say
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that this suspenseful British spy action-drama isn't for the faint of heart. It features a hefty amount of realistic, bloody violence, including stabbings, brutal beatings, and gunplay. Characters are also bound and gagged, taken hostage, held at gunpoint, and killed onscreen. Storylines often reflect real-world events, so topics like race violence, domestic abuse, illegal immigration, and terrorism are common. The main characters are government agents who, although admirably courageous, must lie to their families about their work; forge false relationships to gather intelligence; and use bribery, threats, and even violence to accomplish their goals.
What's the story?
British action-drama MI-5 follows the inner workings of a fictional team of agents within the United Kingdom's real-life Military Intelligence security agency. Section B's covert operatives fight global terrorism on a daily basis, often putting their own lives on the line to ensure that the bad guys are stopped in their tracks. The series often bases its storylines on modern world events; most plots center on the seemingly limitless threats posed by terrorists. On any given day, the agents are called upon to infiltrate extremist groups, befriend or bribe potential informants, intercept weapons of mass destruction, and diffuse explosives. Through it all, these highly trained "spooks" keep cool heads and attempt to out-maneuver their dangerous enemies, all while maintaining their top-secret cover and keeping their families and friends at an emotional distance -- and in the dark about their true identities. Over the series' many seasons, the cast has undergone plenty of changes as agents have been killed or injured on duty or otherwise ousted from the elite group. But the imposing head of the task force, Harry Pearce (Peter Firth), remains, as does a core group of agents that includes Ruth Evershed (Nicola Walker), Adam Carter (Rupert Penry-Jones), and Zafar Younis (Raza Jaffrey).
Is it any good?
Fast-paced and smartly written, MI-5 is filled with suspense, action, and unexpected twists and turns that will keep spy fans guessing. But the series' violent nature makes it iffy for tweens and young teens. Gunplay, beatings, stabbings, and bombs are common, and characters are often shown bloodied, in pain, pleading for their lives, and even dying. Sensitive viewers -- especially those personally affected by terrorism or other violence -- may also be disturbed by the idea of the unseen threats posed by covert terrorist groups.
And, of course, there are the often-questionable methods the agents use to get results -- including violence, threats, bribery, and deception. Young viewers may not understand why the so-called "good guys" are able to cross the lines in certain situations that would otherwise call for serious consequences.
What families can talk about
Families can talk about how the media deals with terrorism. Do shows like this offer a realistic portrait of the issue? Why or why not? How does this British series compare to American shows like 24, which handle similar themes/topics? What role does violence play on both sides of the issue? Which makes more of an impact on you -- a show that's based on fact or one that's totally fiction? Why? Families can also discuss whether it's OK for the agents to use tactics like deception and violence to get results. Is it acceptable for the "good guys" to cross the line? why or why not?
- Show:
- All members
- Parents
- Teens & kids
AGE
A very well made British alternative to '24'
I love the quality of this BBC production. Very realistic, and not over the top in any way. Obviously not for children. I wish American TV producers could come up with an action show this addicting
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AGE
Excellent series but not appropriate for children.
This is a fabulous show that is incredibly well-made and well-acted! It is also absolutely not appropriate for kids. I have seen every episode and can say that most are disturbing or graphic. Many are also touching. The good guys are fully developed as people who care deeply about their country and risk their lives for it; they are also deeply flawed people. Characters the audience loves and cares about are killed off regularly. There are often very violent episodes and it is very realistic. The main scariness comes from the intensity and realism -- the safety of the public is in constant jeopardy, which can be very disturbing even to adults. Also, please note, that sex is a major issue. Though infrequent, some episodes DO feature full nudity (both male and female) and sexual activity. Most episodes of this program are not for kids.
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| TV rating: | TV-14 |
| Network: | BBC America |
| Cast: | Nicola Walker, Peter Firth, Rupert Penry-Jones |
| Genre: | Drama |
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