 | 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. |
Sanctuary
- Syfy
- Genre: Science Fiction
Common Sense Media says
Monsters are real in fun (if unoriginal) series.
Parents say
QUALITY
Kids say
QUALITY
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that this sci-fi show -- which began its life as a popular Web series -- assumes that monsters are very real and that they need to be tracked down and captured. That process often entails a fair bit of suspense and violence (often involving weapons and occasionally deadly), which could unsettle young viewers -- as could the sometimes-creepy monsters themselves. But on the whole, the series is on the tame side for older tweens and up: There's hardly anything in the way of sexual content, salty language, or drinking and drugs.
What's the story?
Will Zimmerman (Robin Dunne) is the kind of detective who can walk into a crime scene, take a quick look around, and tell the other investigators why their easy theory about who did it just doesn't make sense. The fact that his amazing powers of observation sometimes lead to seemingly impossible conclusions doesn't win this awkward odd duck any friends in the police department -- but it does make him an ideal fit in the SANCTUARY. Led by Dr. Helen Magnus (Amanda Tapping), this mysterious organization preserves a deep secret: Monsters are real, and someone needs to track them down and protect the world from creatures that most people would prefer to believe don't exist. These "abnormals," as they're called, include humans with a range of genetic mutations and unique abilities, mythical creatures, and a wide variety of dangerous beasts. Some seek refuge in the sanctuary, while others are confined there either for their own good or because they're too dangerous to be allowed to roam free. Magnus and her team serve as their caretakers, jailers, and hunters.
Is it any good?
The show combines a standard detective series with an X-Files-esque investigation into the paranormal -- along with a hint of 24, since the team must work secretly to save the world from dangerous monsters. There's a fair bit of violence, both when the beasts attack and when the Sanctuary team retaliates, using both lethal and non-lethal weapons. Dr. Magnus' daughter Ashley (Emilie Ullerup), a martial arts expert who's comfortable with a variety of weapons, usually takes point on these missions.
Overall, Sanctuary is entertaining enough. It won't win prizes for originality, but it certainly offers sufficient diversion that viewers will want to learn more about the mysterious secrets that link Zimmerman and Dr. Magnus.
What families can talk about
Families can talk about monsters. Many films and TV shows feature various types of supernatural creatures, but this one makes a point of insisting that that they're real. Do other shows make it clearer that the beasts are fictional? Why do you think this series needs to assume that monsters walk among us? Do you believe in monsters? Also, what does this show have in common with other sci-fi shows and movies? How is it different?
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- Teens & kids
AGE
at least there is no sex in the movie, at least soemthing for teens to watch
its good and it should get good ratings cause there is no sex in it and thats makes it a good movie
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AGE
Sanctuary: Strange, Wonderful, Predictable
To put it concisely, Sanctuary is a wonderful--if somewhat unoriginal--show with positive messages about challenging the system, having an adjustable world view, and accepting everybody for who they are. The effects and atmosphere were pretty decent for TV, and the camera work was downright excellent. Acting was also top notch, and while somewhat predictable, the actors were mostly very engaging. Yes, there is quite a bit of violence, some of it rather bloody, but none of it was unduly graphic. Still, this is probably best for teens and up.
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Kid, 12 years old
September 11, 2011
AGE
So close to a show that I liked
This would have been the IDEAL show if it were not for the whole vampire tie-in.. At first, I thought this show was great and all but the vampire stuff just ruins it. Too bad. In addition they said a LOT of 'b' words. It was just ridiculous. Other than that though, the plot line was AMAZING! But, the vampire stuff killed it with a spoon. =/
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AGE
Two shows that are a staple for my family on a friday night one is Stargate U and the other is Sanctuary.
WOW
this show is amazing the story telling in this show is top shelf, Sanctuary deals with racism in alot of episodes, also family values and respecting people of all walks of life all of these things i want my kids to embrace.
yes there is violence and it is graphic at times. overall thought that violence is there for a reason and there to back up the message.
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AGE
My Favorite Show
My favorite TV show right now. Sanctuary requires some degree of thought that may make younger viewers think it 'boring.' This is a show that is appropriate for all those mature enough to get the premise.
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March 10, 2009
AGE
Looking to your return Sanctuary
What would you have this P/T writer say. Amanda and cast do this series great justice in how the stories are executed in the unusual they are. It is loved how far removed Dr. Magnus is from Col. Carter SGC but allows her the exploit of acting talent in supervised character to give us one of major insight attained from the 19th century to now from induced immortality.
Patiently waiting for continuation in the series, thanks tons
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AGE
Sanctuary is very entertaining and sparks interest in the origin of monster myths. It is most appropriate for kids who are interested in sci fi and who know monsters don't exist.
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| TV rating: | NR |
| Network: | Syfy |
| Cast: | Amanda Tapping, Emilie Ullerup, Robin Dunne |
| Genre: | Science Fiction |
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