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Monster Fish (National Geographic Channel)

common sense media says

Engaging expert travels the world seeking giant swimmers.


parents & educators say

What parents need to know

Parents need to know that this environmentally themed show -- which follows naturalist Zeb Hogan as travels the world to seek out some of the world’s largest freshwater fish, some of which are endangered -- doesn't have much in the way of iffy content (mostly ocassional bleeped language and some drinking by adults). Not only does Hogan explain the life cycles of the fish, he also discusses their natural environment and how humans are changing it, sometimes for the worse. He’s knowledgeable and engaging and makes the show's fish tales interesting for viewers of all ages.

Positive messages: The show sends a message of conservation and ecological awareness. Some of the impressive fish on this series are endangered due to human activities, while others have been transported by people to new environments -- where they thrive to the point that other species are close to being squeezed out. The show's clear point is that people must be more conscious of their impact on the planet.
Positive role models: Hogan is informative and interesting to watch, and he’s eager to jump into the water to get closer to the fish he so clearly loves. His enthusiasm for the environment is infectious.
Violence: Some of the fish look pretty fearsome, and they certainly put up a fight when the fishermen are trying to haul them in.
Sex: Not applicable.
Language: A few words are bleeped, but it’s infrequent.
Consumerism: Not applicable.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Some adult fishermen are shown drinking while they fish.

More on Monster Fish

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
  • Families can talk about the show's message. Do you agree with Hogan's take on the fish and their situation? What take away do you get from watching this show?
  • How have people changed the environment of these fish? Are the changes and damage irreversible?
  • What do you think of these enormous creatures? Do you find them scary? Would you like to be in the water with them like Zeb, up close and personal?

What's the story?

What's the story?
Aquatic expert Zeb Hogan is on a quest to find the world’s biggest freshwater fish. And these creatures aren’t just big, they’re huge! Some grow to 10 feet, can weigh hundreds of pounds, and are truly impressive. But Hogan doesn’t just want to show off his angling skills on MONSTER FISH -- he wants viewers to learn all about these creatures, including where they live, what they eat, and why many of them are in danger. Of course, the easy answer to why they're threatened is man. We’ve damaged their ecosystems, hunted down their food supplies, and introduced invasive species that sometimes threaten to take over their habitats. Hogan is here to explain what we’ve done and what we can to fix it.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 
Hogan is what sets this show apart from other nature/educational series. Sure, the fish are impressive, but it’s Hogan’s explanations that make them interesting to viewers. He goes well beyond the basic explanations of where the fish live and what they eat; he also explains how they interact with people, why some are considered delicacies and others are deemed inedible, how human culture has changed each species, and much more. With an impressive academic background, Hogan is eager to share his knowledge, and it’s worthwhile listening to him.

TV themes & details

TV Details
TV Rating: TV-PG
Network: National Geographic Channel
Cast: Zeb Hogan
Genre: Educational
Where to watch: National Geographic Channel

This review was written by Will Wade
 
 

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ON: Content is appropriate for kids this age.
PAUSE: Know your child, some content may not be right for some kids
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