Common Sense Media Review
Tom Hanks-backed web series explores a violent dystopia.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 16+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
What's the Story?
In the future, humanity lives in a grim society where the most valuable resource is electricity. Sheltered from the harsh outside world this ELECTRIC CITY requires the contribution of every citizen in order to survive, and freedoms such as open communication, trading, and traveling have been outlawed by the city's leaders simply known as the "Knitting Society." As rebellion against them becomes more frequent, Cleveland Carr (voiced by Tom Hanks), a grid agent, is hired by the Knitting Society to extinguish anyone who breaks the city's laws.
Is It Any Good?
Electric City has a unique look and feel along with a well-conceived dystopian world that makes it compelling to watch. While the violence can be jarring, it serves the purpose of illustrating how dangerous and grim this future society has become. As the seeds of rebellion spread, viewers are challenged to take sides, but with fleshed out and likeable characters on both sides, it's easy to become involved in their struggles, and less easy to distinguish right from wrong.
Unfortunately, the limitation of five-minute episodes can sometimes mean events are so compressed it's difficult to follow the story without rewatching key scenes. Cleveland Carr, while an interesting character, takes a while to develop and, at least initially, takes a backseat to some of the supporting characters such as Hope Chatsworth (Jean Tripplehorn) or Roger Moore (Tara Sands). Ultimately this thought-provoking web series targeted at mature science fiction fans is worth a watch.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about each character's motivation. What makes a person who he is -- his past or something essential inside?
Does the series have a stance on what's right and wrong?
What's the appeal of dystopian stories? Can you think of others in movies, TV, or literature? What makes a successful dystopian story?
TV Details
- Premiere date : July 17, 2012
- Cast : Holland Taylor , Jeanne Tripplehorn , Tom Hanks
- Network : Yahoo
- Genre : Science Fiction
- TV rating :
- Last updated : October 2, 2022
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