 | 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. |
The West Wing
Common Sense Media says
Intelligent political drama for mature viewers.
Parents say
QUALITY
Kids say
QUALITY
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that this show is meant for mature audiences, not because of the language or any type of sexual overtones, but because the dialogue and plots are very intricate. But for a smart high school kid, especially one with an interest in social studies or political science, this show could be a slam dunk. Furthermore, the regular characters are all inspirational role models who work hard to make the U.S. a better place.
What's the story?
THE WEST WING was the hit political drama that kept people talking for years. The show followed the Bartlett administration and his staff through two terms of political ups and downs, scandals and policy, and the daily hullabaloo associated with the running of the Executive Branch of the United States. Created by Aaron Sorkin, the show starred Martin Sheen as the president. Other cast members included Bradley Whitford, Allison Janney, Rob Lowe, John Spencer, and Stockard Channing.
Is it any good?
What truly sets this award-winning show apart from its network drama counterparts is the superb writing. Oftentimes the writing in network dramas seems to pander to the audience so that the least intelligent audience member will understand. Not so with The West Wing, where the dialogue is so rushed, the characters so developed and rich, and the plot so intricate that even the most seasoned political aficionado may have difficulty keeping up.
But the most remarkable component of the writing is the speeches that are written for the president. Whether it's a stump speech at his re-election campaign, a State of the Union address, or a private meeting with a priest or mayor, President Bartlett never ceases to inspire with his strong, patriotic words.
What families can talk about
Families can talk about any of the topics around which each episode is based. This can include immigration, war, terrorism, abortion, the use of nuclear energy, and elections. They can also talk about how realistic the portrayal of White House life is.
- Show:
- All members
- Parents
- Teens & kids
AGE
Engrossing Political Drama for Ages 12 and up!
I want to start by saying that The West Wing is one of a tie for my favorite TV show (the other is Planet Earth). Kids may not be able to understand the complicated plots, but I strongly disagree with Common Sense rating it ages 15 and up. There is no sexual content really, but some talk of hookers and affairs. At the end of season one, there is an assasination attempt on the President's life, but only he and one other are shot and they are both fine. They say some language, but not horrible.
The West Wing has smart characters who flub up but apologize and get better. They all have good values and can serve as excellent role models. The President cares about his country greatly, and devotes his life to it. Also, every episode has some sort of inspirational puch, and it never fails to leave me moved.
All in all, the West Wing is an excellent drama with some blemishes and a complicated plot, but nothing bad for anyone over 12. Your whole family will enjoy it!
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AGE
Smart show for very smart kids/teens/adults.
Smart, funny political drama. The dialouge sort of outpaces the audience, but you can still cath on to the general story. Amazing, best drama ever! Too bad it's ending... :(
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AGE
Superb Political Drama
The West Wing is one of the few television series today that are truly excellent, intellectual, and thought-provoking. The series follows the major players on the West Wing (the wing of the White House that houses the presidential offices and staffers). By observing this fictional administration, viewers gain a great understanding of the United States government and its inner workings. There are also lots of great plot points, laughs, and excellently developed and acted characters. Truly stunning. On the content side, there is very little iffy stuff. Violence/scariness can be an issue with wars, death, tense situations, and even a stalker... Mild language is sometimes heard in tense situations (d**n, h**l) and there are a couple of mild sexual situations. In the end, however, it is a face paced and intelligent show that will be lost on anyone too young to appreciate every word.
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AGE
Brilliant Series with Role Models
The West Wing is my favorite TV show ever. It has smart characters and a great plot. The series, six seasons long, tells the story of the two terms of US President Jed Bartlett and his staff. The cast is excellent, especially the late John Spencer as the chief of staff, Leo McGary.
The characters are great role models. They care about each other and their country, and when they mess up, they apologize. The content is iffy. Language is mild but frequent: d**n to s**t. No sex is shown, but references are made to one character's private relationship and some one-liners are made: "I'm good in bed" is one. Violence, too, is not shown, but there are talks of shootings and terrorist attacks.
All in all, The West Wing is an excellent, patriotic TV show for all. Each show ends with a comforting message, and the episodes never cease to leave me inspired. Highly reccomended!
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AGE
Liberal laughable stereotypes of Christian conservatives
I don't get the official review. Within 5 minutes of the opening credits of the pilot episode the Rob Lowe character is shown having spent the night with a woman who later turns out to be a prostitute. And she's smoking a joint. Hollywood at it's best here. While the acting is good, the political bent is worn on the sleeve as smart, compassionate liberal administration officials make Christian conservatives look like mean-spirited manipulative kooks. The stereotypes are laughable.
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AGE
I can not live w/o West Wing
Thank the Lord for this show! Anyone who likes civics will like this show.
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| TV rating: | TV-PG |
| Network: | NBC |
| Cast: | Allison Janney, Bradley Whitford, Martin Sheen |
| Genre: | Drama |
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