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Wacky Races (Boomerang)

common sense media says

Wild, wacky, witty cartoon -- a retro classic!

parents & educators say
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What parents need to know

Parents need to know that this classic Hanna-Barbera hit is still entertaining for all ages. Although mild violence and innuendo pop up occasionally, overall this series doesn't raise too many eyebrows.

Positive messages: All of the characters are competitive, and Dastardly and Muttley cheat all the time (but never win). Penelope Pitstop is a strong female character.
Violence & scariness: Bullets and explosives, but no bloodshed.
Sexy stuff: Not applicable.
Language: Not applicable.
Consumerism: Not applicable.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Not applicable.
Our ratings and reviews are informed by child development guidelines. Learn more.

More on Wacky Races

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
Families can talk about competition. How can competition increase self-esteem? How can competition be rewarding without winning? Do the characters in this show take a healthy approach to competition?

What's the story?

What's the story?
THE WACKY RACES features an oddball collection of 11 race car drivers hoping to seize the title of the world's wackiest racer. No matter where these folks are competing (and it could be anywhere in America), the rules are as lax as can be. But that doesn't stop villains Dick Dastardly and Muttley (who later got their own spin off) from finding ways to cheat, although ultimately their efforts are unsuccessful in the end. The show features an impressive list of voice actors, including Daws Butler, Don Messick, John Stephenson, Janet Waldo, Dave Willock, and Paul Winchell.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 

Penelope Pitstop (who also got her own spin off) and her car, The Compact Pussycat, steal the show. Instead of resorting to destructive weapons to get ahead, Penelope will coyly spray hair products to temporarily blind Dastardly and his canine sidekick. Although not always innocent, Penelope sets the example that women can be both feminine and independent.

Meanwhile, Dastardly and Muttley set up violent explosives to slow down the other drivers, although there's never any bloodshed. And all of the characters are pretty cutthroat and will do anything it takes to get to the finish line, so parents should be sure to explain what constitutes healthy competition. But on the other hand, the villains are the only ones who bend the rules, and they finish last every time, helping cement the message that cheaters never win.

TV themes & details

TV Details
TV Rating: TV-G
Network: Boomerang
Cast: Daws Butler, Don Messick
Genre: Kids' Animation
Where to watch: Boomerang
This review was written by Deirdre Sheppard
 
 

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ON: Content is 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
Our child development rating guidelines