Common Sense Media Review
By Melissa Camacho
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Tornado-wrecked town inspires via green rebuild.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 11+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
After their town was wiped out by one of the largest tornadoes in U.S. history, the residents of Greensburg, Kansas, were left with little more than a will to survive and a desire to rebuild. GREENSBURG chronicles their efforts to recreate their town as a thriving eco-friendly community. With the help of eco-developers and sustainability experts like John Picard, the town comes together to build what's intended to be a model green community for both the United States and the rest of the world.
Is It Any Good?
The series, which is produced by Leonardo DiCaprio, primarily focuses on the town's efforts to heal itself by concentrating on reducing its impact on the environment. But there are also some harrowing personal stories about surviving the catastrophic storm. It's very emotional to hear residents reflect on how they're coping with the loss of their homes, their livelihoods, and, in some tragic cases, their loved ones. Not surprisingly, many have moments of doubt. Some must decide whether to keep living in Greensburg, while others struggle to reestablish a sense of normalcy in their lives.
Despite these heartbreaking stories, the Greensburg residents' ability to look beyond their own loss and envision a better, more environmentally sound community makes this series worth watching. Its focus on community building and survival are also positive messages. While some of the personal stories and news footage of the tornado may be too scary for young viewers, it's an interesting -- and inspirational -- choice for older tweens and teens.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about what it takes to create a completely green community. Do you have to start from scratch, or can you make a town green after it's built? Families can also discuss surviving a natural disaster. How do people manage to rebuild their lives after they've lost everything? What gives people the will to rebuild rather than leave and find a new place to live? How does the media help people during a weather emergency? How can your family be best prepared to survive a tornado, hurricane, or earthquake?
TV Details
- Premiere date : June 15, 2008
- Cast : John Picard , Leonardo DiCaprio , Lonnie McCollum
- Network : Planet Green
- Genre : Reality TV
- TV rating :
- Last updated : September 20, 2019
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