 | 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 Wire
- BET, HBO, Syndicated
- Genre: Drama
Common Sense Media says
Realistic drama about urban crime is not for kids.
Parents say
QUALITY
Kids say
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that this dark, mature series offers a very realistic representation of urban crime and the other problems that affect inner cities (but, unfortunately, offers few solutions). It constantly deals with gang violence, drug trafficking, and murder and frequently criticizes law enforcement and government agencies. It also contains extremely strong language and some nudity -- all of which makes it strictly for adults only.
What's the story?
THE WIRE is an award-winning drama that powerfully addresses many of the complex issues plaguing America's inner cities, presents a gritty, realistic interpretation of urban life, and underscores the idea that urban crime is a product of both a socially and politically flawed society. The show centers on the Baltimore police department's ability to access criminal organizations through the use of electronics and wiretap surveillance. The series looks at government and law enforcement's inability to "win the war" against drugs, gangs, racism, poverty, and political corruption. Boasting a large ensemble cast -- including Lance Reddick as Lt. Cedric Daniels, Dominic West as Detective Jimmy McNulty, and Wood Harris as drug lord Avon Barksdale -- The Wire's cops and criminals aren't simply "good guys" and "bad guys," but multifaceted individuals struggling to survive and succeed in a world with its own set of values and rules of justice. Meanwhile, the members of Baltimore's political circle -- including Mayor Clarence V. Royce (Glynn Turman) and Councilman Thomas Carcetti (Aiden Gillen) -- negotiate both the law and the streets.
Is it any good?
While The Wire takes a much-needed critical look at the social problems and institutional ineffectiveness of urban America, it fails to offer gratifying solutions to those problems. But in many ways that's actually the strength of this unflinchingly violent, realistic show; its straightforward, uncomfortable portrayal of America's urban crisis makes the issues facing urban America difficult to forget.
What families can talk about
Families can talk about the realities of living in an urban area. Are all inner-city communities affected by drug trafficking and violent crime? What causes these problems? Are there any effective solutions?
While the media typically highlights drug-related crimes in urban areas, do these problems also impact other types of communities?
Issues surrounding race and class can also be discussed.
- Show:
- All members
- Parents
- Teens & kids
AGE
Amazing
Growing up and going to High school in Baltimore City when this show premiered it was inescapable. I did not immediately realize it at the time but this show taught me more than any college sociology class could ever dream. I have never witnessed a more realistic portrayal of the marginalized sub-cultures existent in modern urban America. The Wire provides an unwavering illustration of the fractured social, political and economic America paradigm. Forcing us all to challenge our moral perception of conventional teachings, by introducing us to ourselves. This amazing piece of cinematic beauty presents the truth behind our condition, that we are all corrupted, and though austere as the message may seem, the Wire gratifies through the liberation of cultural inhibition. Crime, tragedy, death, pain, sorrow; are as real and unavoidable as happiness, or ecstasy. And it is these elements of life that are reflective in everything we do, create, or provide. The Wire could not have captured this axiom more perfectly. A must watch for all.
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AGE
6 out of 5 Stars - but not for children
I won't offer a long review, as there are many elsewhere praising the outstanding series. The Wire is quite possibly the best television series (albeit pay television) ever made. That said, it is definitely not for all but the oldest, suitably mature children. The primary problem for children between roughly 12 and 16 is the occasional graphic (R-rated) sex. The second major issue for young teens, is that this series presents really complex social problems while recognizing/implying that no good solutions exist.
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| TV rating: | TV-MA |
| Networks: | BET, HBO, Syndicated |
| Cast: | Dominic West, Lance Reddick, Wood Harris |
| Genre: | Drama |
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