Common Sense Media Review
By Kari Croop
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Sometimes-scary fantasy is a mash-up of monsters and myths.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Atlantis
What's the Story?
When Jason (Jack Donnelly) jumps into a small submarine to look for clues to his missing father's whereabouts, he finds himself standing on the shores of ATLANTIS, an ancient city brimming with familiar names and fantastical creatures. But, while Jason's new friends Hercules (Mark Addy) and Pythagorus (Robert Emms) help him right wrongs all over town, he must continue his search for the truth about his origins.
Is It Any Good?
Judging from the special effects alone -- which, at times, are downright goofy -- Atlantis was clearly not intended to impress. But it was engineered to entertain families with older kids, and it pulls that off with reasonable success thanks to a trio of likable do-gooders, an ever-rotating stable of evildoers, and a much-needed splash of comedy.
Since Atlantis takes so many liberties with figures and facts, it's not the best place to go hunting for historical accuracy. For one thing, it has Hercules hanging out with Pythagoras (yes, the same guy who gave us that nifty theorem) and getting the hots for a yet-to-be-snake-haired Medusa, ignoring the fact that none of them ever would have known each other. But, on the upside, it just might inspire kids to do their own research and uncover a world that's rich in myth and fantasy.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the Greek myths and historical figures Atlantis is based on. How accurate is the show's take on ancient history? What are the downsides to taking creative liberties with actual events? What are the upsides?
How does fantasy violence compare to real violence? Does exposure to fantasy violence promote violent behavior in real life?
How does Atlantis compare to other movies and television series set in ancient times? In your opinion, is it a good "family show"?
TV Details
- Premiere date : September 28, 2013
- Cast : Jack Donnelly , Mark Addy , Robert Emms
- Network : BBC America
- Genre : Drama
- Topics : Fantasy ( Magic ) , Adventures , History
- TV rating :
- Last updated : October 1, 2025
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