Common Sense Media Review
By Melissa Camacho
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Tattoo reality is fairly mild, except for bleeped language.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Epic Ink
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
EPIC INK is a reality series featuring the tattoo artists of Area 51, a renowned tattoo parlor located in Springfield, Oregon. Owned and operated by celebrity tattoo artist Chris 51, the series highlights the pop culture-inspired, hyperrealistic artwork they're known for. Clients come from across the country to get inked by Chris 51 and his team, including artists such as Chris Jones, Heather Maranda, and Josh Bodwell. From inking dinosaurs from Jurassic Park to tattooing detailed images of video game scenes drawn by hand, the team shows why their tattoos stand out.
Is It Any Good?
It's likely that folks interested in inking and body art will be inspired by the series, whereas others may find the enthusiasm for tattoos inspired by superheroes such as the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and characters from movies such as The Goonies a little ... different. Some of the more unique images, such as a pair of horns inked into the sides of a client's head, also may raise a few eyebrows.
Nonetheless, it's a lighthearted and voyeuristic look at the antics of the likable Area 51 tattoo artists, who appear to have as much fun designing images and inking clients as they do working with each other. Some of the artwork, which is often so detailed it appears three-dimensional, is impressive, too. It won't appeal to everyone, but viewers will probably find it entertaining.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the appeal of tattoo-themed reality shows. What makes them appealing to audiences? Is it the artwork? The actual ritual of getting a tattoo? Or something else?
Why do people get tattoos? Is it the responsibility of TV shows to discuss the pros and cons of getting one?
TV Details
- Premiere date : August 20, 2014
- Cast : Chris 51 , Chris Jones , Heather Maranda
- Network : A&E
- Genre : Reality TV
- TV rating :
- Last updated : October 2, 2022
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