Parents' Guide to

Bartlett

By Melissa Camacho, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 15+

Quirky musical comedy with cursing, comic violence.

TV Amazon Prime Video Comedy 2018
Bartlett Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this TV show.

  • Bartlett Series: Caitlin, Roger, and Bob
  • Bartlett Series: Maggie.
  • Bartlett Series: Jesus and Mary apply for a gig with the agency.
  • Bartlett Series: Caitlin.

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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?

Our review:
Parents say: Not yet rated
Kids say: Not yet rated

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?

TV Details

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