Common Sense Media Review
By Emily Ashby
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Solid science behind Brazilian show makes up for campy vibe.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 11+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Mystery Lab
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In MYSTERY LAB, host Felipe Castanhari explains the science behind some of the world's most notorious puzzlers, notable events, impressive advances. Working from his lab and on location, Castanhari delves deep into the nuts and bolts of the day's hot topic, looking at common theories before making a case for the story the facts tell. Often he's joined by his colleague Dr. Tay (Lilian Regina), his friend Betinho (Bruno Miranda), and the resident supercomputer, Briggs (voiced by Guilherme Briggs), as he digs into what sense science can make of these puzzles.
Is It Any Good?
For all of the campiness in this series (and there's a lot), the actual learning content is clear, concise, and presented exceptionally well. Castanhari alternates between talking directly to viewers and chatting it up with his coworkers -- Dr. Tay, the brilliant scientist; and Betinho, the resident over-reactor and asker of sophomoric questions. And when an even more practical explanation is required, Briggs is there to weigh in on the subject as well. The result is some occasionally corny acting but a wealth of really interesting and thorough scientific analyses of curious topics.
Mystery Lab's selectivity in subject matter goes far in enticing viewers as well. Rather than tackling vague and voluminous content topics like evolution or natural disasters, the show teaches those subjects as they relate to less dry, more enticing ones like a zombie apocalypse. It's this big-picture method of teaching that pairs well with the informal scripted structure of the characters' interactions. This bodes well for the show's teen viewers' interest level and keeps things a little more within the grasp of lay adult viewers as well.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the science behind Mystery Lab. Is the show informative in an educational way? Did you learn something new by watching? Did it raise other questions for you? What reliable resources can you turn to if you want to learn more?
How important is it that the media aim to educate along with entertaining? Does it have a responsibility to screen content for accuracy or age-appropriate content? Why or why not?
Series like this one cater to curious viewers. Are the topics of particular interest to you? What subjects most pique your curiosity? What value is there in being curious?
TV Details
- Premiere date : August 4, 2020
- Cast : Felipe Castanhari , Lilian Regina , Bruno Miranda
- Network : Netflix
- Genre : Educational
- Topics : STEM
- TV rating :
- Award : Common Sense Selection
- Last updated : September 30, 2025
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