Private
By Melissa Camacho,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Online boarding school drama has some violence, sex.
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Private
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Based on 1 parent review
Excellent show for ages 11 (6th grade) and up
What's the Story?
PRIVATE, an online series based on the novel by Kate Brian, follows sophomore scholarship recipient Reed Brennan (Kelsey Sanders) as she tries to fit in to her new life at upscale Easton Academy. She endures frequent hazing in order to fit in with her Billings House housemates -- including roommate Taylor (Tristin Mays), class president Ariana (Natalie Floyd), and ring leader Noelle (Samantha Cope). And she also catches the eye of Thomas Pearson (Brant Daugherty), a popular student with a dark side. As Reed navigates her way through her new world, She discovers that Billings holds a frightening mystery -- and some of her clasmates aren't who they seem to be.
Is It Any Good?
Like many other online series, Private mixes teen conflict and romance with mystery. While these themes are hardly original, they're probably enough to attract teens (particularly those on the younger side). The fact that these young characters live in a rather autonomous world will also be appealing.
Although it's definitely milder than some online shows out there, Private still has enough mature story material, sexual innuendo, and violence to make it iffy for tweens. But teens, especially those who are fans of the book, will likely be anxious to check it out.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the behavior portrayed in teen soaps like this. Parents, try to put your two cents in about what's realistic and what isn't. Ask your kids how the issues and conflicts on the show are similar to and different from those in real teens' lives.
Who are the "good" characters, and what makes them different from the "bad" ones?
What's the appeal of shows about cliques and "mean girls"? Are they just an escape, or do they promote problematic values? Do they impact the way girls treat one another -- or themselves?
What do you think it's like to go to a private boarding school? What would be some of the advantages and disadvantages?
TV Details
- Premiere date: July 7, 2009
- Cast: Brant Daugherty , Kelsey Sanders , Samantha Cope
- Network: Online
- Genre: Drama
- TV rating: NR
- Last updated: February 24, 2022
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