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Lobster Wars
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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 this reality series about competing fishing crews includes some rough language (words like "f--k" are bleeped; "piss" and "damn" aren't), as well as some iffy pranks between crew members (one jumps on another's back and simulates a sex act). There are also some dangerous moments at sea. That said, most of the horseplay and language are of the "boys being boys" variety and isn't gratuitous. And the show does offer an interesting look at a culture that most viewers won't be familiar with.
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What a bunch of losers.
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What's the story?
LOBSTER WARS documents the journeys of five lobster boats as they compete for the biggest haul in the ice-cold waters of the North Atlantic. The reality series follows the crews of the Dragon Lady, the Timothy Michael, the Direction, the Rachel Leah, and the William Bowe as they set out on a fishing trip to Georges Bank, the winter's most profitable lobster grounds. Crew members battle bad weather and rough seas in order to fight for the best spots to lay their traps. The rivalry grows fierce as the number of lobster boats increases ... while the crustacean supply ebbs.
Is it any good?
While the competition between the boats for a profitable haul is the show's main theme, it also offers an honest portrayal of how difficult it really is to earn a living at sea. Rotting fish, grueling hours of work in freezing temperatures, and disappointingly small catches are all part of the job. Captains must work to keep a hired crew together while simultaneously working to keep their boats -- and their businesses -- afloat.
The crewmen (and one crew woman) swear like -- go figure -- sailors, but they're hard workers who have a healthy appreciation for the traditions and superstitions that are a rich part of life on the high seas. Rookie fishermen are expected to learn from the more experienced ones. Small rituals are conducted to bring luck. And, above all, the power of the ocean is always respected.
Talk to your kids about ...
Families can talk about the appeal of shows like this, Ice Road Truckers, and Deadliest Catch. What's so fascinating about getting a glimpse of these dangerous jobs? Do you think these shows are more or less realistic than other reality series? What do you think compels people to work in these professions? Families can also discuss how traditions and superstitions influence the fishing culture. Where did these traditions come from? Despite the influx of science and technology in the fishing industry, why do fisherman still honor old-time fishing lore?
TV details
- Premiere date: August 23, 2007
- Cast: Keith Sultzbach, Mike Palombo, Scott Christopher
- Network: Discovery Channel
- Genre: Reality TV
- TV rating: TV-PG
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