 | 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. |
Plain Jane
- CW
- Genre: Reality TV
Common Sense Media says
Makeover show focuses on helping "plain" girls get a man.
Parents say
Kids say
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that this adult-oriented makeover show will probably appeal to older teens, too. But it sends a very mixed message about what makes a woman "attractive" to the opposite sex (hint: Outward appearance is really important!) and employs some borderline-degrading tactics to teach women the "right" way to flirt, etc. And while the women do come out of the experience with more confidence, that doesn't change the fact that more emphasis is placed on the outer makever than the inner one. In addition to some fairly mild swearing (think "boobs" and "damn"), you'll hear some sexual innuendo and playful talk. The show also partners with Bloomingdales to give the women a fashion makeover with a $1,000 gift card.
What's the story?
In PLAIN JANE, host Louise Roe takes a woman who (in the show's own words) is "ordinary, awkward, forgettable, and lonely" and transforms her into an attractive, confident woman. But looking and feeling better isn't really the central goal ... the game plan is getting a guy (more specifically, a guy the woman has been crushing on for quite some time). After an extensive day of confidence building, strategic shopping, and primping, the no-longer-plain "Jane" confronts her crush and reveals her true feelings. But he doesn't always feel the same way.
Is it any good?
There's a point in an early episode of Plain Jane that reminds you -- quite literally -- just how far reality producers are willing to go to shock viewers these days. Because, apparently, they think it's perfectly fine to wrap a device around a woman's arm that gives her a low-level jolt every time she screws up while she's trying to flirt with men at a dog park. Too boring? Buzz. Too snippy? Buzz. Talking too long to a guy who just told you he's gay? Buzz. Buzz. Buzz. Buzzzzzz!
Enduring borderline-degrading treatment like that makes a lady look pretty desperate, to say nothing of the show's iffy messages when it comes to snagging a man in the first place. (A little stalking seems to be necessary, as are good posture, big hair, and a flirty dress.) Sure, self-confidence can give a pretty woman the edge. But Plain Jane does little to prepare her for the possibility that it might have been the only thing she lacked.
What families can talk about
Families can talk about the show's overall message when it comes to men, women, and dating, as well as the importance of being "pretty" (as opposed to "plain"). Is self-confidence the only thing keeping these women from getting the man they want?
How substantive are these "inside and out" makeovers? Do you think the women are happier at the end of the experience? Do you think they'll incorporate the things they've learned into their lives -- and, more importantly, should they?
Where does "getting the guy" fit into all this -- and how does a women react if he rejects her? Are these guys worthy of such adoration?
- Show:
- All members
- Parents
- Teens & kids
AGE
Horrible Message For Kids
After watching this show once or twice, the problem with the show isn't that it's neccesarily bad but that it sends a horrible message. Although the show tries to say inner and outer beauty is important, only outer beauty is changed. Sometimes inner beauty routines are taken, but don't end up really doing anything for the girls but making them upset. I think if girls want a guy, they should be themselves. If he doesn't like that then screw it find another guy! :) The Janes normally end up getting the guy, which makes girls think they have to change in order to get the guy they want. Maybe some guys like "plain janes". I don't think the show means to me negative, but it's sexual innuendo and constant making over is way too shallow for anyone under 13.
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| TV rating: | TV-14 |
| Network: | CW |
| Cast: | Louise Roe |
| Genre: | Reality TV |
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