Common Sense Media Review
By Jenny Nixon
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Melancholic doomsday series has cartoon nudity, drinking.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 15+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
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Carol and the End of the World
What's the Story?
CAROL AND THE END OF THE WORLD takes place after scientists announce that a mysterious planet called Kepler-9c is on a collision course with Earth, and that life as we know it will end in seven months. While many choose to shrug off the shackles of capitalism and conformity and live their final days in a haze of sex, Mai-Tais, and hang-gliding, our soft-spoken protagonist Carol (voiced by Martha Kelly of Baskets and Euphoria) tries desperately to keep up on dental cleanings, bill-paying, and everyday tasks as though nothing has changed. Her self-imposed isolation is disrupted when she happens upon a building packed with business casual-clad office drones tapping away at their computers, distracting themselves from impending doom with busywork. In this unlikely setting, Carol finds comfort and connection.
Is It Any Good?
Kelly's ultra-dry voicework borders on monotonous and will get on the nerves of some, but viewers who hang in there are rewarded with a surprisingly sweet and nuanced performance. To call Carol and the End of the World a slow burn is an understatement, but its meditative quality grows on you, and bailing early will rob you of some fun reveals and legitimately heartwarming moments. Some viewers will latch on to the humor inherent in seeing humanity embrace 24/7 raves and nudist sea cruises, while others may identify with Carol's existential dread and desire for normalcy in an increasingly stressful world. For those with the patience to stick with it, the series is a gently funny and poignant examination of community, family, and the meaning of life.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about other media centered on end-of-the-world themes. How is the approach Carol and the End of the World uses different from other shows and movies you've seen on this topic?
Carol is soft-spoken and reserved, in stark contrast to her boisterous and expressive sister Elena. How do they find common ground? Which character do you relate to more, and why?
If you knew you had a limited amount of time left on Earth, how would you spend your days?
TV Details
- Premiere date : December 23, 2023
- Cast : Martha Kelly , Mel Rodriguez , Kimberly Hebert Gregory , Beth Grant , Tim Heidecker
- Network : Netflix
- Genre : Comedy
- TV rating :
- Last updated : January 24, 2024
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