| 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 this educational show, hosted by actor Morgan Freeman, tries by explain the very nature of the universe by examining some of the most advanced and complicated theories of physics, mathematics, and cosmology. Renowned researchers discuss such topics as dark matter, string theory, astrobiology and more. There’s nothing here that’s inappropriate for kids, but the subjects are pretty tough, and probably will go over the heads of tweens and younger teens.
The universe is a complex place, and even the most advanced rules of physics and math still can’t quite explain the whole thing. In THROUGH THE WORMHOLE WITH MORGAN FREEMAN, the renowned actor is narrator and host on a journey to the origins of the cosmos. The show features interviews with scientists and researchers who explain dark matter, string theory, cosmology and other complicated concepts, and uses simple models and computer graphics to help viewers understand just what might be going on, way, way, way out in space.
Freeman guides viewers, as the title says, through the wormhole, trying to explain the very origins of the universe. Many of these concepts are pretty far out, ideas that might have seemed completely ridiculous to scientists 20 or 50 years ago. Indeed, some of them are still just theories, and in another decade may have been totally discredited. And all of them are tough stuff.
Even with the basic graphics and the simplified explanations aimed at the ordinary viewer, these theories can be tough to grasp. That doesn’t make the show less entertaining, but it does mean it will appeal to a limited audience. Young kids probably won’t get it, and even older viewers need to pay attention, so may not be right for people looking for simple distraction. But for people who really do want to know more about the meaning of life, this one is hard to beat.
Families can talk about space and science. How do you think the universe formed? Did you learn anything surprising from this show? Is there anything that you don't agree with on this show?
How do you think scientists’ understanding of the universe has changed in the past few decades? Some of the ideas presented on this show would have seemed outlandish to the best physicists a century ago -- do you think there will be any significant new theories a century from now? If so, like what?
Does this show make you want to study the origins of the universe? Would you like to be a physicist or mathematician?
Where do spiritual beliefs factor into this discussion about the nature of the universe?
What do you think Morgan Freeman brings to the show? Why was he chosen to host?
| TV rating: | TV-PG |
| Network: | SCIENCE |
| Cast: | Morgan Freeman |
| Genre: | Educational |