Bartlett

Name: Bartlett
Item: Bartlett
Rating: 3
Author: Melissa Camacho

TV review by

Melissa Camacho, Common Sense Media

Common Sense says

age 15+

(i)

Quirky musical comedy with cursing, comic violence.

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age 15+

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Bartlett Series: Caitlin, Roger, and Bob

X of Y

X of Y

Bartlett Series: Jesus and Mary apply for a gig with the agency.

X of Y

X of Y

A lot or a little?

The parents' guide to what's in this TV show.

Positive Messages

Sometimes realizing a dream means committing to a job you don't want to do.

Positive Role Models & Representations

Roger is washed up, but willing to give one final push. The folks at SF Agency aren't always loyal or helpful.

Violence

People hit each other, set things on fire, but these events are comical (though sometimes painful).

Sex

Strong sexual innuendo; crude sexual references. People in tight, revealing underwear.

Language

Lots of cursing ("s--t," "f--k").

Consumerism

The Hewlett-Packard logo is prominently visible. Mini Cooper, iPhone.

Drinking, Drugs & Smoking

Wine is visible. References to smoking.

What parents need to know

Parents need to know that Bartlett is a unique musical comedy series intended for mature audiences. There's lots of cursing, some strong sexual innuendo, and crude sexual references. Violent moments (like setting something on fire) are played for laughs, and no one gets hurt. The HP logo is prominently featured, while items like Mini Coopers and iPhones are visible. There's some wine drinking, too.

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What's the story?

BARTLETT is a comedy series about a washed-out ad executive who dreams of becoming a full-time musician. After Roger Newhouse (Anthony Veneziale) breaks up with his lover and co-worker, Maggie (Chrissy Mazzeo), his work at Agency SF falls apart. But he has the opportunity to put things right by landing a major account for advertising "The Bartlett." With one day to get it right, his New York-based boss, Bob (Don Reed), flies in to confront him, while Caitlin (Eirinie Carson), the overworked account executive and de facto office manager, tries to keep it together. There's a lot of pressure, but if he succeeds, Roger can save the business -- and perhaps have a chance to leave it all behind.

Is it any good?

This unique comedy series mixes song and satire while offering a quirky narrative. The story, which begins hours before a major advertising pitch, uses flashbacks to highlight key moments starting two years prior. Adding to the fun are Anthony Veneziale's performances of his original music throughout.

Appearances by folks like Lin-Manuel Miranda and Pitch Perfect's Utkarsh Ambudkar add to the entertainment. The constant narrative shifts, particularly given the short length of each installment, can be a little much. Nonetheless, Bartlett has lots of amusing moments, and those mature enough to handle it will probably find themselves laughing.

Talk to your kids about ...

Families can talk about satire. What makes Bartlett different from other types of comedy?
What kind of commentary does Bartlett offer about the advertising business? Are these observations just intended to be funny, or is there something more behind it?