 | 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. |
Totally Spies! The Movie
- Cartoon Network
- Genre: Kids' Animation
Common Sense Media says
Teen heroines are, like, terrible role models for tweens.
Parents say
Kids say
QUALITY
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that there’s little redeeming quality to this grating tween-targeted movie inspired by the TV series of the same name. The teen heroines are a slang-talking, image-obsessed bunch who dig clothes, guys, and, well, themselves. These negative qualities are played up at the expense of fledgling themes like teamwork and respect. If your tweens are already familiar with these characters from the show, then little will surprise them, but if they’re not, be forewarned that this “prequel” movie might pique their interest in the series as well.
What's the story?
TOTALLY SPIES! THE MOVIE chronicles the story behind Clover, Alex, and Sam -- a trio of secret agents who fight crime for the World Organization of Human Protection. Unbeknownst to them, the girls are recruited by WHOOP because of unique skills each one possesses, and they’re thrown together at Beverly Hills High School before their agent training starts. Soon after, they’re tasked with their first mission: to solve a rash of mysterious disappearances around town, which seem to be related to a fashion-altering machine at the local mall and a fallen fashion model named Fabu (Karl Lagerfeld).
Is it any good?
If your tweens have tuned in to the show that inspired this movie, then they’re already familiar with this flavor of entertainment and won’t be struck by its reliance on stereotypes. But if the characters are new to them (and you), it’s a good idea to think it through before giving them the go-ahead. The female-led cast is a catty, trendy, and self-obsessed bunch, often pausing from their makeup and clothing only long enough to check out the guys nearby. Mean-girl Mandy clearly isn’t a heroine, but her obnoxious behavior -- which never garners consequence -- blends in more than it stands out amid the chaotic pace of this movie.
The bottom line? This story misses an opportunity to show girls in a positive role displaying teamwork, resolve, and concern for others. Instead it trips up on distractions like flirting with guys and obsessive accessorizing. If you're still on the fence, consider this: Like, do you want your tweens talking like these girls? As if.
What families can talk about
Families can discuss stereotypes. What stereotypes exist in this movie? How extreme are they? Can stereotypes exist without being offensive? Who determines what is acceptable and what’s not?
Do you notice a difference between how girls and boys are portrayed on TV or in the movies? What shows do you know of that cast strong female leads? What characteristics do those heroines share? How do the characters in this show compare?
Tweens: What special talents do you possess? How do you put those skills to use? How might they help you in a future career? What resources exist for honing your talents?
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- Parents
- Teens & kids
AGE
Cool show
Just my girls see this show.
They really like it.
And so do i
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AGE
TFWM ( Totally Fine With Me )
I like it, but sometimes they're mean to eachother. Otherwise I LOVE it. The voices can get on your nerves though.
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Kid, 12 years old
May 23, 2010
AGE
sisters
it is a good movie 4 kids
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Kid, 10 years old
December 27, 2010
AGE
I don't like this show.
I think this show is boring, but I'm sure six-year-old girls, like my little sister, would enjoy it.
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AGE
Totally Unfair Review Common Sense!!!
Seriously? This is graded a bit hard a regular child would over look these flaws, and as it comes to "Clover" the boy crazy one, most of your daughters have shallow friends like her yet, she's my favorite character
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AGE
This is and OK show for kids 7+
Well you are right about the violence and languadge but the sex isn't a big issue.The girls always work together and when they try to find their way out of a problem they talk it out.I like how Alex and Sam aren't really that interested in fashion.
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Kid, 11 years old
October 2, 2010
AGE
Great!
I love this show so much! They do not show it anymore much on tv but you can watch it on youtube in parts. I usually hate stuff like this but this show for some reason reminds me of my friends and i but i can not tell why. Anyways, its great!
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| Topics: | magic and fantasy, superheroes, adventures, friendship |
| TV rating: | TV-Y7-FV |
| Network: | Cartoon Network |
| Genre: | Kids' Animation |
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