Common Sense Media Review
By Marty Brown
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Well-done adaptation of iconic war novel has sex, violence.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 17+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Catch-22
What's the Story?
In CATCH-22, Yossarian (Christopher Abbott) is a bombardier in the U.S. Air Force during World War II. When he's forced to continue flying on life-threatening missions, he tries to con his way out of service by faking injury and mental illness. This is the story of Yossarian's experiences in the military, including how he and his fellow soldiers (including George Clooney, Kyle Chandler, and Hugh Laurie) can get trapped in an endless cycle of war, largely because of the contradictory protocols that guide the armed forces.
Is It Any Good?
Hulu's adaptation is well-made and well-acted, with a battery of incredible guest actors, as well as a rising star in Christopher Abbott in the lead role. Joseph Heller's best-known novel has been so widely imitated and deeply influential that it's fair to wonder what new insight it might have to offer in 2019. Unfortunately, that's the thing that keeps Catch-22 from being a capital-G great show: It doesn't seem to have anything to say about our present. The satirical tone keeps us at an arm's distance emotionally from Yossarian and his fellow soldiers' stories, and -- even though the show nails some of the jokes and snappy dialogue -- what was once biting commentary on war and the American military now feels toothless.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about examples of catch-22s. When did you learn what the show's title means? How are catch-22s used throughout the show?
How does Catch-22 portray life in the military? What do you think the show's opinion is on life in the military?
How do you feel about Yossarian? Do you understand his desire to fake injuries and mental illness? What do you think drives him?
TV Details
- Premiere date : May 17, 2019
- Cast : Christopher Abbott , George Clooney , Kyle Chandler , Hugh Laurie
- Network : Hulu
- Genre : Comedy
- TV rating :
- Last updated : September 29, 2022
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