Parents' Guide to

Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell

By Emily Ashby, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 14+

Brooding, book-inspired drama is a captivating watch.

TV BBC America Drama 2015
Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this TV show.

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age 17+

Based on 2 parent reviews

windbullet7
windbullet7 Adult
August 12, 2015
age 18+

Great but has some nudity

If we are talking about families with kids, this show is great until episode 3. A good way into the episode, almost at the end, there is a scene where a slave woman is shown giving birth. We see brief but clear shots of her breasts, about 3 times. The scene does have context and is not senseless sexuality but if you aren't ready to have your kids see that kind of thing, you may want them to look away. Having read in previous reviews that this show was completely clean, I went into a great show with interesting characters, only to have the shock of episode 3. I haven't continued yet, so I don't know if there is more than just this scene or not, so be aware.

This title has:

Too much sex
J12345
J12345 Adult
June 18, 2015
age 15+

Common Sense Media is lacking

After finding the review on common sense, I decided to give this show a shot. The show is listed as having no sexual content or nudity, great! 3rd episode in they show a topless slave giving birth. So I got to start watching a show due to an incorrect review. I've found several like this, so it would be nice if the reviews were made better and not have a review of a whole show based on a single episode or snippet.

This title has:

Too much violence
Too much sex
See all 2 parent reviews

What's the Story?

Set in England at the turn of the 19th century, JONATHAN STRANGE & MR. NORRELL is the story of the the world's first two magicians in more than 300 years: the dour, reclusive Mr. Norrell (Eddie Marsan) and the fresh-faced, eager apprentice Jonathan Strange (Bertie Carval). An ancient prophecy foretold this mismatched pairing as heralding the long-awaited reemergence of magic in the world, but it's no easy road for either one. As Strange learns the craft under Norrell's tutelage, the two personalities clash, and in a hasty attempt to have his talents acknowledged, Norrell strikes a deal with a cunning spirit who unleashes widespread mayhem.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say (2):
Kids say (2):

Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell is a dark and gloomy -- but ultimately riveting -- fantasy drama that takes place in a reimagining of the Napoleonic wars era. Despite their drastic differences of personality, both leading men are compelling -- Jonathan for his recklessness and charisma, Norrell for his manic quest for acceptance by way of ultimate power. The resulting struggle has dire repercussions for both men and consequences as far-reaching as the wars that are raging.

But magic is only half the story. Much attention also is given to the concept of politics in this Victorian period drama, mostly as it's interpreted by the London outsider Norrell's attempts to gain acceptance for himself and his craft among the stringent ruling parties. The length to which he goes to prove himself and his intentions, and the fallout as Jonathan hones his skills with careless abandon, set the stage for a fascinating fantasy that fans of this genre will love.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the time and place in which this series is set. Which world events were shaping people's lives? Given your knowledge of the time, how well does this show set the stage for the characters' experiences?

  • Why is the concept of magic such a popular one in books and films and on TV shows? Is it presented as a positive force in this case? If such a skill existed, could anyone be trusted with any one person or group?

  • Do you enjoy period dramas like this one? Do they inspire you to learn more about the time and place in which they're set? If you've read the book on which this film is based, did you like this interpretation of it?

TV Details

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