Crimes That Shook the World
Detailed look at infamous crimes isn't for kids.
Common Sense is a nonprofit organization. Your purchase helps us remain independent and ad-free.
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 suggesting a diversity update.
Suggest an Update
A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this TV show.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that this documentary series pulls few punches in discussing some very terrible crimes. Though there's little actual onscreen violence, scenes show the aftermath of carnage, and plenty of people describe, often in graphic terms, exactly who did what to whom. The overall effect can be hard to stomach.
Community Reviews
There aren't any reviews yet. Be the first to review this title.
What's the Story?
Each episode of the docu-drama series CRIMES THAT SHOOK THE WORLD takes an in-depth look at some of history's most infamous villains and the acts that made them famous, feared, and often reviled. The series blends old film footage and news clippings with interviews with survivors and investigators and dramatized reenactments of important incidents. Besides describing the crimes and the efforts to track down and prosecute the bad guys, Crimes That Shook the World also explains how the events often created a palpable feeling of terror in the local communities. Many episodes center on well-known serial killers, such as the BTK killer in Kansas or Washington state's Green River Killer.
Is It Any Good?
Crimes That Shook the World is well made, but its effective re-creation of unpleasant events could certainly provide plenty of fodder for bad dreams -- or even dredge up some unpleasant memories for people who remember when these crimes were on the front pages instead of on historical TV shows. Though these notorious criminals have a certain irresistible appeal to many viewers, the detailed, matter-of-fact description of their deeds can be chilling and unpleasant to watch. Either way, it's definitely not for kids.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about crime and punishment. This show delves into the actions of some of history's worst criminals, and though it focuses mostly on what they did, it also tries to explain why. Why do some people become criminals? Are they motivated by greed, revenge, or something else? Or are they fundamentally flawed in some way? How do the criminals attempt to justify their actions? Do they actually think they'll get away with it?
TV Details
- Premiere date: December 7, 2006
- Cast: Frank Violi, Henry Hereford
- Network: Discovery Channel
- Genre: Reality TV
- TV rating: TV-14
- Last updated: August 26, 2022
Our Editors Recommend
-
Most Evil
Evil minds on parade. Too disturbing for kids.
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate