Outcasts
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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 post-apocalyptic science fiction drama doesn't skimp on the violence. In the premiere episode alone, one character is beat into a coma, from which she later dies, while another character threatens to shoot others at point-blank range. Besides these bursts of violence, the plotline advances too slowly to interest most younger viewers, and broods upon issues such as deception, inner conspiracies, and unknown dangers -- haunting topics for most children.
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What's the Story?
As a result of war, life on Earth is nearly unsustainable in the year 2040, forcing at least some part of Earth's population to relocate to the mysterious planet Carpathia. This group of refugees has created the makeshift city of Forthaven, where the residents are led by President Tate (Liam Cunningham), with a close assist by Stella (Hermione Norris), who leads the Protection and Security (PAS) team. The residents of Forthaven pin their hopes on a spaceship transporting a new group of humans, one of whom sees himself as a messiah of sorts (Eric Mabius). Set against this hopeful backdrop is the story of one of the refugees, Mitchell Hoban (Jamie Bamber), who makes some shocking choices and leaves the relative safety of Forthaven to explore the rest of the Carpathia. When two PAS team members follow him into the wilderness, they encounter surprising and shocking evidence of life on the planet.
Is It Any Good?
Those viewers who were hoping for a Battlestar Galactica-worthy sci-fi series may be seriously disappointed by OUTCASTS, a series imported from the U.K. (where it was short-lived).
The story's pace is slow, with character-driven plot advancements punctuated by quick and disturbing scenes of violence. While the story is supposedly about humanity's potential for redemption, the series often serves only to remind viewers of humanity's capacity for deception and violence.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about depictions of violence. Why does the show use such brutal violence? What purpose, if any, does it serve in advancing the plotline?
This show has been cancelled in the United Kingdom. Do you think it will reach a more accepting audience in the United States? What are the differences between successful U.S. vs. U.K. shows?
What kinds of imagined technology appears in this show? Do you think any will become reality? Can you think up any new kinds of technology? Who creates new ways to use technology?
TV Details
- Premiere date: June 18, 2011
- Cast: Eric Mabius, Jamie Bamber, Liam Cunningham
- Network: BBC America
- Genre: Science Fiction
- TV rating: TV-14
- Last updated: March 31, 2022
Our Editors Recommend
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Battlestar Galactica
Exciting space drama has complex adult themes.
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Dark Angel
Post-apocalyptic action drama features tough, smart heroine.
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Star Trek: The Next Generation
Still going boldly, updated series is fun for all.
For kids who love sci-fi
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