Going Wild
Common Sense says
- NatGeoWild
- Reality TV
- 2014
Parents say
Kids say
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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 Going Wild is an intervention series that demonstrates how nature can help people think differently about their personal problems. There are some positive messages about respecting nature and making productive life changes, as well as warnings about the dangers that exist in the wild. Watch for the occasional bleeped curse word ("s--t"), and personal stories containing mature themes like divorce and addiction. The logo for First Ascent outdoor gear is prominently featured. Older tweens might be interested, but it's not really intended for younger viewers.
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What's the story?
GOING WILD is a reality series featuring ordinary people going on extreme outdoor adventures in order to make positive changes in their lives. Each episode features a person or couple who is struggling with serious personal or relationship issues. After sharing their stories, they are surprised by former Hell's Angel and outdoorsman Tim Medvetz, who whisks them away on a grueling three-day outdoor expedition through some of the country's must rugged areas. From trekking across the Moab desert to climbing Mt. St. Helen's, Medvetz pushes folks to face tough natural obstacles in order to help them rethink their lives, and rediscover the strength they need to make positive changes at home.
Is it any good?
From helping a married couple rekindle their relationship to inspiring a young man to develop a better relationship with his family, Going Wild sends the message that turning to nature is a constructive way of finding answers to life's problems. But while the outdoor experience is used as a way of highlighting some of the truths behind people's behaviors, it also underscores some of the real dangers associated with it, including animal attacks and the risk of falling and getting hurt without any way of getting immediate help when necessary.
It's an interesting combination, but one that feels a bit awkward at times, especially when participants' insights and triumphs are interrupted by warnings about predators that can potentially kill them during the process. The simplistic feedback that Medvetz offers throughout isn't particularly constructive, either. Folks who like nature-themed reality will enjoy the various locations and natural wonders showcased here, but may not find the show as inspirational as it claims to be.
Talk to your kids about ...
Families can talk about intervention shows. Why do people choose to air their personal problems and efforts to fix them on TV? Do you think that the process they go through to make things better is real? Are shows like these meant to educate audiences, or entertain them?
Can turning to nature really help you solve your problems? Why or why not?
TV details
- Premiere date: March 3, 2014
- Cast: Tim Medvetz
- Network: NatGeoWild
- Genre: Reality TV
- Topics: Science and Nature
- TV rating: TV-PG
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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.