Parents' Guide to People and Places

Poster art for the Disney+ short film series People & Places has a black background and the title in a glowy font

Common Sense Media Review

Jenny Nixon By Jenny Nixon , based on child development research. How do we rate?

age 9+

Family-friendly short docs offer inspiration, diversity.

Parents Need to Know

Why Age 9+?

Any Positive Content?

Parent and Kid Reviews

What's the Story?

PEOPLE AND PLACES is a reboot of the popular 1950s/60s Disney-produced documentary series of the same name, consisting of four short films from emerging filmmakers. In Camp Alec, we visit a Michigan-area sleepaway camp for non-speaking kids and learn how they connect and have fun while using Augmentive and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices. The Academy follows a young, black South African woman as she learns to sail, ultimately embarking on a yacht race. I Scream, You Scream blends documentary footage interspersed with music video-style segments and centers on a former DJ/current ice cream man nicknamed "Showtime" who reconnects with his son through creativity. Finally, Sophie and the Baron whimsically documents the unexpected friendship and collaboration between artist Sophie Kipner and legendary Rolling Stone photographer Baron Wolman.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say : Not yet rated
Kids say : Not yet rated

Short enough to keep a kid's attention and engaging enough to interest adults, this documentary series offers family-friendly stories about people from many different walks of life around the world. Packed with gorgeous cinematography and unique personalities, the People and Places series is an enjoyable watch that gives families countless opportunities to discuss lives and experiences they may never have encountered before.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about which of the short films in the People and Places series was their favorite. Which episode affected you the most, and why?

  • Why is it important to learn about people from different backgrounds and who have different abilities? Can you find something to relate to even when you don't have anything in common with someone on the surface?

  • Are there any subjects or people you would like to see featured in this series in the future? Nominate your faves.

TV Details

Did we miss something on diversity?

Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by

Poster art for the Disney+ short film series People & Places has a black background and the title in a glowy font

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