| 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 kids will find this animated classic enjoyable for the same reason they find most other shows enjoyable -- the stories are engaging, funny, and, at times, action-packed. But what sets this series apart from other cartoons is that its entertaining elements are executed in good taste, with very little content that could be considered objectionable.
THE PINK PANTHER cartoon series, a very loose adaptation of the 1963 movie starring Peter Sellers, follows the action adventures of a furry, pink panther with the manners of an English aristocrat as he calmly faces off against his nemesis, a dogged inspector (inspired by Sellers' character, Clouseau). Currently available on DVD and airing on TV in reruns, this show has it all: sophistication, humor, action, and a cool Henry Mancini theme song.
Unlike other shows from this era -- such as Tom & Jerry and The Perils of Penelope Pistop -- The Pink Panther is clever and funny without resorting to violence, questionable language, or sexual innuendo. Fans of almost any age will find the cool cat endearing whether he's starting trouble, running away from trouble, or saving the day. Even though the show is packed with humor and engaging plots, nothing is over the top (except maybe the music). Parents can relax because all of the jokes are cut and dried -- hidden innuendos, violence, and iffy language are nowhere to be found. The panther is a sweet, intelligent, lovable character, and his show is a clean, kid-friendly classic.
A few things to watch out for: Tobacco use is the show's greatest pitfall, with the panther himself smoking a cigarette during the opening credits. Supporting characters also smoke cigars from time to time. Plus, since the show doesn't have any dialogue, kids who can't read or don't understand the concept of money may not completely understand the jokes. This series relies on action, facial expressions, and the reading of signs to tell a story.
Families can talk about jokes. What makes a joke funny? What kinds of jokes are appropriate? How does the Pink Panther joke around, and when is he the subject of a bad joke? How is the cartoon series related to the live-action Pink Panther movies -- both the original and the remake? Which is funnier -- the movies, or the cartoon? Why?
| Topics: | adventures, wild animals |
| TV rating: | TV-G |
| Network: | Boomerang |
| Genre: | Kids' Animation |