Common Sense Media Review
By Melissa Camacho
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Gritty arm-wrestling reality show has violence, profanity.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 14+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
From the producers of Deadliest Catch comes GAME OF ARMS, a reality docuseries that offers a behind-the-scenes look at the competitive world of American arm wrestling. Five regional arm-wrestling clubs -- including the New York City team known as Arms Control; the Sacramento Arm Benders; Kansas City's Rolling Thunder; the Baton Rouge Roughnecks; and the Wrecking Crew, a competitive team from Erie, Pennsylvania -- participate in a series of regional tournaments in exchange for cash prizes and bragging rights. As they train for matches and travel across the country to compete, they also share some of the personal challenges that arm wrestling helps them cope with.
Is It Any Good?
From training in their basements, out in the woods, and on city streets, to competing in warehouses and garages, the arm wrestlers of Game of Arms offer a voyeuristic look at a sport that isn't played in mainstream venues. It also offers details about the rules established by the American Armsport Association, how matches are judged, and the various traditions and rituals wrestlers follow before and during each match.
Much of the show's appeal comes from the unbridled passion these folks have for the sport, even if it means risking serious injuries and spending more money to compete than they can possibly win. Scenes of the contestants wrestling in slow motion also add some drama. It's certainly not for everyone, but folks interested in learning more about some people's unique interests and activities will probably find something here.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about arm wrestling. Did you know that arm wrestling as an organized sport got its start in the United States? Do other countries arm-wrestle competitively? Why is this sport being featured in a reality show?
TV Details
- Premiere date : February 25, 2014
- Cast : Kevin Nelson , Kenny Hughes , Allen Fisher
- Network : AMC
- Genre : Reality TV
- TV rating :
- Last updated : August 16, 2021
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