 | 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. |
Tower Prep
- Cartoon Network
- Genre: Drama
Common Sense Media says
Tense thriller has surprisingly good messages for teens.
Parents say
QUALITY
Kids say
QUALITY
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that Tower Prep is action thriller series meant for teens, and many of the suspenseful and tense scenes will likely frighten younger kids and even sensitive tweens. Violence is mostly limited to martial arts-style exchanges, but the constant sense of peril ensures the series is for older viewers who can separate fantasy and reality. The show touches on a number of themes that will resonate with modern teens, including the desire to identify individual talents, struggles with authority, and the strength to be found in friendship inspired by a shared mission.
What's the story?
Ian Archer (Drew Van Acker) is no stranger to trouble, and his latest stunt -- treating a class bully to a taste of his own medicine -- earns him a suspension from school and the wrath of his parents. When the dust settles, Ian wakes up in a mysterious boarding school called TOWER PREP, with no recollection of how he got there and no connection to the outside world. The school claims to be a haven for diversely gifted teens like Ian, who has a knack for seeing things just before they happen, but he’s convinced there’s something more to it. Raising a ruckus on his first day introduces Ian to classmates C.J. (Elise Gatien), Gabe (Ryan Pinkston), and Suki (Dyana Liu), who have their own plans for escaping the school, so the four band together to hatch a plan to discover the truth behind Tower Prep.
Is it any good?
Mystery, suspense, and thrills join forces to create this enticing action series that deserves to get teens’ attention. There’s a little something here for everyone, from empowering sentiments about determination to the power of free will. Although the characters’ scenario is pretty extreme (not many teens can actually relate to being sent away to an off-the-grid forced boarding school), the underlying themes of isolation, trust, and the desire to assimilate while staying true to individuality are relatable issues for many teens.
Content-wise there’s little here to keep parents from giving teens the go-ahead, though the show is so well constructed it might just entice those same parents to tune in along with them. Need another reason to like it? Amazingly there’s nary a hint of sexual agenda among the coed cast.
What families can talk about
Families can talk about authority. Who are the authority figures and role models in your life? How do they earn your respect? Do you feel like you can trust them? Why or why not?
Teens: How much pressure do you feel to fit in among your friends and peers? What are some of your traits that set you apart from the people around you? Do you like these differences? Do your friends respect them? Do you respect others’ differences?
What are some of the causes you’re most passionate about? What (if any) are the limits to your dedication to these causes? How do these issues affect you personally?
- Show:
- All members
- Parents
- Teens & kids
AGE
BEST SHOW!
best show ever! 12/15/10 episode is so cool!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Was this review useful?
|
|
AGE
PERFECTION
My fav show! They absolutely must bring it back for a second season. Mild violence is as far as it goes and is recommended for anyone who craves a good thriller.
Was this review useful?
|
|
AGE
The story is terrific! You neeeeed to pay attention though, otherwise you'll have no idea what they are talking about. But, this is definitely one you don't wanna miss!
Was this review useful?
|
|
AGE
Why? Just-why?
WHY CN? I thought you learned your lesson with Out Of Jimmy's Butthole, but noooo. MORE LIVE-ACTION! ARGH
Was this review useful?
|
|
Kid, 10 years old
December 27, 2010
AGE
Tower Prep is the best!
I love this show and it's spooky plots, creepy settings and cliffhangers, it keeps me tuning in every week! BTW remember to catch the two new episodes on 12/28/10! They end the season!
Was this review useful?
|
|
AGE
good show
Not really violent compared to other stuff. Definitely shows how much friends support you in tough situations. My only concern would be if kids began thinking that getting sent to a school like that could be real.
Was this review useful?
|
|
AGE
Really Good, but not Unnatural History
I was impressed, this show is really good. The actings great, it has a good plot and this show is just plain great, but it's not as good as Unnatural History, so if Cartoon Network is trying to replace Unnatural History, it's not working.
Was this review useful?
|
|
AGE
Two thumbs up for tower prep
My child and I both love this show. Its like twilight (the show, not the movie) mixed with saved by the bell. The plot thickens with each show as the characters try to "find themselves" as well as a way back home.
Was this review useful?
|
|
Kid, 12 years old
March 14, 2011
AGE
Okay love the show! I can't wait till next season, because the first season just left you hanging, which I hate because I mean.......your left hanging. So many questions goes through yoru head, what happenes? Where will they go? Will they get out? Awsome show!
Was this review useful?
|
|
| TV rating: | TV-PG |
| Network: | Cartoon Network |
| Cast: | Drew Van Acker, Elise Gatien, Ryan Pinkston |
| Genre: | Drama |
Review It
Great alternatives handpicked by our editors
Already seen it? What do you think?
More from Common Sense Media
Top advice and articles
