Common Sense Media Review
By Melissa Camacho
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Many touching moments in military family reunions.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 10+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
What's the Story?
COMING HOME is a heartwarming reality show featuring soldiers returning to their families in surprising ways. Each episode features host Matt Rogers working with real military spouses and/or other family members to plan the ultimate surprise -- reuniting their returning soldier with unsuspecting loved ones. The soldiers, who are coming back from active service in Iraq, Afghanistan, and other global destinations, spend their first hours back in town hiding in closets, unexpectedly appearing at school assemblies, and even dressing up as a medieval swordsman, in order to make an unforgettable reappearance. Home videos of soldiers' fun and heartwarming returns around the country are also featured.
Is It Any Good?
The series features lots of emotional moments, as active members of all five branches of the military return to loved ones who have eagerly waited for their safe return. Scenes featuring children are especially moving, and underscore how difficult it has been to live without their mother or father.
The reunions are entertaining and heartwarming to watch. But it is the show's efforts to celebrate and honor the men, women, and children who have made -- and who still are making -- sacrifices in service of their country that make it inspiring.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the emotions evoked by this show. What are the emotions you feel watching the reunions? Do those emotions impact your thoughts and feelings about war and the military? What is the purpose of a show like this?
Wars and other violent conflicts are often featured in movies, TV shows, video games, and other forms of media as a source of entertainment. How do these violent media impact the way we think about war and other violent confrontations?
What are some of the challenges military families face? What issues does this show leave out?
TV Details
- Premiere date : March 6, 2011
- Cast : Matthew Rogers
- Network : Lifetime Television
- Genre : Reality TV
- TV rating :
- Last updated : September 20, 2019
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