Parents' Guide to

Popzilla

By Melissa Camacho, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 15+

Animated celeb spoofs mix violence, sex, stereotypes.

TV MTV Comedy 2009
Popzilla Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

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

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age 16+

Based on 1 parent review

cvt7
cvt7 Parent of 7, 7 and 13-year-old
September 29, 2009
age 16+
See all 1 parent review

What's the Story?

POPZILLA is a flash-animated series that pokes fun at today's celebrities and other pop culture phenomena. From Ashton Kutcher to shows like The Hills, the show riffs on what makes these "brand names" famous, their latest exploits, and the tabloid media that helps increase their popularity.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say (1):
Kids say (1):

The gags featured here range from pure silliness to actual social commentary about the impact that popular culture icons have on the way we view our lives. It also offers interesting insight into how easily the media enhances someone's celebrity status.

While the show isn't as over-the-top as other teen-oriented animated series, it definitely has its share of iffy stuff -- including some pretty strong sexual innuendo. Some segments also rely on stereotypes (including some with racist overtones) to get a laugh and make their point. But for those who like this sort of humor, the show will probably tickle a few funny bones.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about whether it's ever OK to use stereotypes to create humor. Why or why not?

  • What exactly is popular culture? Are all famous people part of popular culture? Why or why not? Who decides? How much impact do you think the media has on popular culture?

  • What's the point of spoofing someone/something? Is it just to be funny, or is it also meant as some kind of social commentary? When does a spoof or gag go too far?

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 suggesting a diversity update.

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