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Pushing Daisies

(Rated TV-PG, Drama, Starring Chi McBride, Anna Friel, Lee Pace, Where to watch: ABC, DVD, Online)
  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 12, age appropriate for kids over 15; suggested age 14.
  • Is it any good?

    4.0
  • Common Sense says

    Quirky drama mixes murder, fantasy, romance.

Why We Rated This iffy for Ages 14–15

The good stuff

  • Messages:

    The main characters are well-intentioned, ethical people, but the central story/concept (i.e. Ned's ability to revive -- and re-kill -- the dead) brings up moral questions. Some peripheral characters are bad (like the murderers).
 

What to watch out for

  • Violence:

    Strong violence is mitigated by tone/comedy -- such as strangulations with plastic bags bearing a smiley face. Death and interactions with corpses are standard features, but the show isn't primarily a graphic crime procedural. Some moments are abrupt and shocking, as when a child's dog is hit by a truck.
  • Sex:

    One character comes on strong to another. Chaste romance is central to the story.
  • Language:

    Occasional use of words like "bitch" and "hell."
  • Consumerism:

    Not an issue.
  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Some social drinking.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About Pushing Daisies

Parents need to know that this highly stylized murder mystery series is lighter than most. You'll see people get strangled, shot, and rise from the dead, but the tone is more campy than creepy. Even with occasional blood and gory wounds, chances are most viewers won't be left cringing. Other intense moments are abrupt surprises, like when a kid's dog is hit by a truck. But relief -- in the form of comedy or happier type of surprise -- tends to follow quickly, negating the initial shock. A chaste romance is central to the show; though there's some sexual innuendo and tension, the pair literally can't touch each other, so they can't get up to too many shenanigans.

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about what type of show this is. Is it a crime drama? A fantasy? A romance? Can you think of other TV shows and movies that mix genres to create a unique style? How does the show's humor impact the effect of the murders and other violent acts? Does it make them seem less serious? Is that good or bad? Why? Families can also discuss Ned's dilemma. Is he doing the right thing by briefly reviving dead people to solve their murders (and profit himself)? What about his decision to keep Chuck alive -- was that the right thing to do? What would you do with Ned's powers?

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Our Members Say

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See all 25 member reviews

Most Recent Reviews

  1. I rate this title iffy for age 13 and give it 5.0

    Bring on the pie maker

    This is one of the most original shows I've ever seen. I own both seasons and wish it haddn't been cancelled. There are some seens that might be too gruesome for young viewers, but overall not a bad show. The writing is excellent, the dialogue great, the acting spot on, and it even has a humorous narrator. What else could you ask for?

  2. Parent Reviewer
    I rate this title off for age 14 and give it 3.0
    My concerns are:
    • Inappropriate sexual content

    Adults only

    The show was very interesting. My husband loved it. But, there was a scene on one of the 1st couple of shows that to me was not family friendly. I don't want my kids to view shows that promote sex outside of marriage. There was no nudity but the message is still there...

  3. I rate this title on for age 12 and give it 5.0
    • My highlights are:
    • Positive messages

    A Language Show for 12+

    This show is quirky, humorous, and engaging. But it's hard to keep up with. The fast-paced storyline and humor was a pressing reason that the show didn't make it past two seasons. But if you're willing to buy the DVDs and watch every episode, this is a fabulous series.

  4. Teen Reviewer Age 13
    Lives in Illinois
    I rate this title on for age 12 and give it 5.0

    Love it!

    This is a great show! I think it was cancelled, though? But its fine for ages 12+.

  5. Parent Reviewer
    Lives in Ohio
    I rate this title iffy for age 13 and give it 5.0

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