Common Sense Media Review
By Joly Herman
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Adventurous show about bugs uses drama to inspire.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 5+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
DeBugged
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In DEBUGGED, nature filmmaker Alex Jones takes his camera to remote places to film bugs in action. He's not afraid to search for scorpions in the middle of the night with a UV light. He doesn't shy away from the dung beetle's stinky namesake, picking up cow patties as he explains the desert beetle's ritual of rolling poop into balls that will house future generations of dung beetles. He explores exotic insects like the orchid mantis, which poses as an orchid so that fruit flies will visit its flower-like body by mistake. All the while, he explains the how's and why's of the insects' behavior. Sound effects and grand film score-style music accompany the footage, lending a dramatic atmosphere to an educational show.
Is It Any Good?
This action-packed science show engages viewers with the addition of movie music and visual effects. In DeBugged, nature filmmaker Alex Jones is ready for anything. His rugged appearance and fearless demeanor are complemented by his filmmaking skills and a passion for insects. Kids will enjoy desert bug battle scenes that bring to mind Hans Solo's struggle with the vortex-like desert creature in Return of the Jedi. Adults will be impressed by the up-close camera work and interesting facts.
There is one fly in the ointment, however. Sometimes the script hasn't been proofed for proper grammar, which might cause some viewers to cringe. Kids who love bugs won't notice, though, because the interesting narratives, enhanced visuals, and rich musical score are sure to entertain.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about selfies and social media type filming like that in DeBugged. What are the rules in your home about posting footage of yourself online? What is internet safety all about?
Although insects are everywhere, we don't always know a lot about their unique characteristics. How do shows like this make you curious to learn about the world around you?
Some of the insects in this show rely on teamwork for essential functions. How might the bees in a hive inspire you to work in a team?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : November 16, 2018
- Director : Alex Jones
- Studio : Wildlife Film
- Genre : Documentary
- Topics : STEM , Animals ( Bugs )
- Run time : 35 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : September 29, 2025
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