 | 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. |
Rescue Ink Unleashed
Common Sense Media says
Unlikely animal heroes spread message of acceptance.
Parents say
Kids say
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that the subjects of this reality series are a pretty rough crowd, so expect lots of strong language (including edited uses of words like "f--k" and "s--t") during frequent heated confrontations. Details of animal abuse -- as well as the rescuers' stories of their own violent pasts (some have been shot, stabbed, and beaten many times) -- will tug at viewers’ heartstrings, and the subject matter is far too intense for little kids and sensitive tweens. That said, teens and adults will be touched by the Rescue Ink team's devotion to their cause, and their stories will remind viewers of the importance of judging a person on character rather than appearance.
What's the story?
Eight hardened New Yorkers wage war on animal abuse in RESCUE INK UNLEASHED. The unlikely activists are a brawny, street-wise, tattooed bunch -- but it’s the guys’ fierce love of animals that makes them truly terrifying to the offenders they confront. The self-appointed "Army for animals" fields 100 calls a week and investigates claims of cruelty, neglect, and abandonment, rescuing and relocating the most severe cases and using tough-talking "encouragement" to persuade neglectful owners to change their ways.
Is it any good?
Like its eclectic band of stars, this reality series is a diamond in the rough. On paper, the concept seems like just another extreme attempt to cash in on reality TV’s popularity, but these eight men -- who joined forces before their story became TV-worthy -- are the real deal when it comes to their passion, and their experiences are at different times heartbreaking, inspirational, and laughable.
Viewers will be struck by the contrast between the guys’ soft hearts and their intimidating physiques. And the show's feel-good messages about the importance of strong character vs. surface appearances are present everywhere. The Rescue Ink gang's salty language ("damn" and "hell" are used a lot, while "s--t," "bitch," and "f--k" are bleeped) and discussions of animal cruelty and violence between people makes it iffy for younger viewers, but teens and adults will be inspired by the rescue team’s labor of love.
What families can talk about
Families can talk about humans’ relationship with animals. Teens: What responsibilities do pet owners have toward their pets? What are the rewards of having a pet?
How does the show promote acceptance? Teens: Have you ever made incorrect assumptions about someone based on their appearance? Why are we often swayed by physical appearances? What are the risks of that?
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| TV rating: | TV-14 |
| Network: | National Geographic Channel |
| Cast: | Angel Nieves, George Perry, Joe Panz |
| Genre: | Reality TV |
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