Common Sense Media Review
By Emily Ashby
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Funny sketch comedy transcends Internet origins.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 15+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
Sketch comedy series HUMAN GIANT began its life as a collection of short Internet clips but has morphed into a raucous MTV series that's sure to keep fans guessing about how far the stars will go for laughs. The show features recurring characters like the Shutterbugs, tough-talking (and often foul-mouthed) talent agents for child actors who struggle to relate to their young clients on a kid-friendly level. Also making their TV debut are Web favorites the Illuminators, who combine the thrill of David Blaine-style magic with the all-around strangeness of Criss Angel Mindfreak to shock and amaze their unsuspecting audiences. Other sketches draw laughs from quirky characters in extreme situations -- like one who summons an attack dog to garner sympathy in uncomfortable situations, or a one-woman moving service who uses her motherly instinct (and plenty of adrenaline) to move heavy furniture by first dropping it on her son.
Is It Any Good?
The show's irreverent but sharp wit is a credit to its talented stars -- Aziz Ansari, Paul Scheer, and Rob Huebel -- all of whom double as executive producers when they're not in front of the camera. Jason Woliner also produces and directs the show; guest stars like Linda Cardellini and Tony Hawk add to the fun. While Human Giant certainly isn't meant for kids or tweens, older teens and adults will find a lot to chuckle at.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the lengths to which comedy goes for entertainment. How do comedians and actors use topics like sex, violence, and race relations for laughs? What are some examples of that in this show? Teens: Do you find this type of humor funny? Why or why not? Do you think anyone might be offended by it? Should there be limits on the kinds of mature content that can be shown on television? Who should have the right to decide what is and isn't appropriate for viewers?
TV Details
- Premiere date : April 5, 2007
- Cast : Aziz Ansari , Paul Scheer , Rob Huebel
- Network : MTV
- Genre : Comedy
- TV rating :
- Last updated : October 11, 2020
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