Parents' Guide to Clark

TV Netflix Drama 2022
Clark TV Show: Poster Image

Common Sense Media Review

By Ty'Kira Smalls , based on child development research. How do we rate?

age 15+

Drama about infamous con has sex, nudity, cursing, violence.

Parents Need to Know

Why Age 15+?

Any Positive Content?

Parent and Kid Reviews

age 18+

Based on 1 parent review

age 15+

Based on 1 kid review

What's the Story?

Home is where the crime and chaos is, according to CLARK. This series is based on real-life criminal Clark Oloffson (Bill Skarsgård), whose crimes inspired the phrase "Stockholm Syndrome." But his story starts at the very beginning, where we watch Clark grow into his chaotic tendencies through juvenile crimes. As Clark grows, his crimes grow -- from selling beer and cigarettes as a child to theft and vandalism as a young adult. Occasionally this life of sex, lies, and crime catches up to him. But according to Clark, "Even a bad day on a run is a good day."

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say ( 1 ):
Kids say ( 1 ):

This show follows a charmingly anarchic criminal whose chaotic and dangerous lifestyle, selfish tendencies, and crass outlook on life and people make it not for kids. Bill Skarsgård, best known for playing Pennywise in It, leans into his charisma; amidst the corruption and debauchery, it makes the moments where Clark is humanized, reflective of his actions, or even selfless that much more refreshing. That said, these moments for Clark are few and far between. There's an opportunity for discussions on accountability, but it appears that even when Clark loses he seems to win, so that may fall short.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about shows about true criminals, particularly ones glamorized like Clark. How do they depict Clark Oloffson? Do you think criminals should get shows made about them? Why do you think the media produces this type of content?

  • Why do we sometimes root for villains?

  • Do you think the media is the right forum to explore this kind of negative behavior? Why or why not?

TV Details

Did we miss something on diversity?

Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by

Clark TV Show: Poster Image

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