| 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 well-rounded drama series inspired by Egyptian mythology is a great choice for teens and parents to enjoy together. The story's intrigue and suspense will appeal to this older set, and what violence exists (fist fights, gun use, and murder in various forms) generally isn't gruesome and remains age-appropriate. The show's real strength is in the depth of its characters and the relationships between them, offering viewers plenty to discuss. Be sure to draw teens' attention to the unobtrusive messages about self-image and finding strength in individuality, as well as the show's attempts to portray teen relationships in a positive light.
With her 16th birthday on the horizon, Chloe King (Skyler Samuels) is looking forward to a traditional celebration with her adoptive mom (Amy Pietz) and two best friends, Amy (Grace Phipps) and Paul (Hi Kong Lee), but plans change when she notices some odd changes taking place as the big day nears. Incredibly, she learns that her new superhuman abilities are characteristics of the Mai, an ancient clan said to be descended from an Egyptian goddess. And, even more than just being one of the Mai, Chloe is actually a prophesied peacemaker who will be the savior of her race. Between learning the truth about her heritage from fellow Mai Alek (Benjamin Stone) and Jasmine (Alyssa Diaz) and trying to safeguard her nine lives from human assassins who want her dead, Chloe attempts to foster a relationship with a charming new boyfriend, Brian (Grey Damon), who's also a part of the bigger picture.
THE NINE LIVES OF CHLOE KING is as much a tale of destiny and human relationships as it is an entertaining blend of suspense, drama, and a modern-day take on Egyptian mythology. Each relationship within the story is multi-faceted, from the complex uncertainties between Brian and his father to the emotional connection shared by Chloe and her adoptive mother, who just might be harboring secrets of her own. Chloe's struggles to relate her new sense of destiny with the life she's always known also offer a jumping-off point for parents and teens to talk about personal goals as well as healthy relationships.
This show is a fun way to introduce your teens to the subject of mythology, perhaps inspiring their interest -– and your own -– in the subject. Overall, the characters model responsible teen relationships, sex is more a point of discussion than of action, and Chloe and her mom share an admirable bond that encourages honest communication. The show does center on villains' attempts to kill a heroine nine times over, so violence is an issue, but what exists suits the content and won't affect teens. Add to that some good vibes about finding strength in the qualities that make you different, and you've got a well-rounded show that's lots of fun for parents and teens to enjoy together.
Families can talk about how teen relationships are portrayed in this series. Are they realistic representations of how teens relate to each other romantically? Do they seem to reinforce or challenge any stereotypes about teens?
Talk about the violence in this series. Where does the show draw the line when it comes to showing violence? Do you think it could go farther and make more of an impact? Or is it too much already?
| TV rating: | TV-PG |
| Network: | ABC Family |
| Cast: | Benjamin Stone, Grey Damon, Skyler Samuels |
| Genre: | Drama |