Common Sense Media Review
By Ashley Moulton
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Super science docuseries encourages curiosity, skepticism.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 12+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Connected
What's the Story?
As host Latif Nasser tweeted about his new show, Connected is "basically if Bill Nye and Anthony Bourdain had an awkward Muslim baby." Nasser, a veteran science journalist of Radiolab podcast fame, now travels around the world to report on amazing science and technology stories. Each episode focuses on a different theme like "surveillance," "poop," and "digits." For each segment, Nasser interviews experts in various science disciplines. He then explains how seemingly different stories in science and technology are actually related. For example, in the "surveillance" episode, he compares human dating apps like Tinder to ZIMS, a computer program that helps zoologists find mating pairs between animals at different zoos. He also explains how facial recognition software is used in both pig farming and for human law enforcement.
Is It Any Good?
This excellent science series will likely inspire a lot of excited "did you know..." conversations from teen viewers. The stories featured in Connected are incredibly fascinating and not ones teens are likely learning in science class. Beautiful cinematography and compelling storytelling make this show feel more like a travelogue than a procedural science documentary. Host Latif Nasser strikes a perfect balance of someone who is equally amazed about scientific advancements and wary of the unintended consequences they can sometimes bring. Most importantly, he explains why the science is very relevant to our everyday lives. Curious teenagers and adults will enjoy this great show.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how host Latif Nasser feels curious about the world around him. Did anything from the episode make you curious and inspire you to learn more?
Nasser also has a lot of skepticism around the way certain technologies are used. Did anything featured in the show make you feel uneasy? Why or why not?
TV Details
- Premiere date : August 2, 2020
- Cast : Latif Nasser
- Network : Netflix
- Genre : Educational
- Topics : STEM
- Character Strengths : Curiosity
- TV rating :
- Award : Common Sense Selection
- Last updated : September 30, 2025
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