Rules of the Game
By Ty'Kira Smalls,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Mature, dark series on corporate sexism has violence, sex.
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Rules of the Game
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What's the Story?
Sam Thompson (Maxine Peak) is all too familiar with the RULES OF THE GAME when it comes to working at Fly, a family-run sportswear company: Do your work, dance with the boys, don't ask questions, and go home. But when Sam discovers the body of a dead co-worker at her job, she's confronted with the harsh realities of workplace culture, sexism, and her participation in them. Detective Eve Preston (Susan Wokoma) is convinced that there's more to this death than meets the eye, especially since newly hired HR Director Maya (Rakhee Thakrar) had been investigating the culture at Fly since her arrival. As the investigation continues, Sam must reckon with the true consequences of playing this dangerous game.
Is It Any Good?
Though the story takes its theme too literally at times, character dynamics and mystery keep this "game" mildly interesting. Rules of the Game has broken one rule and made the world part of the theme, instead of exploring the theme through the world. Due to this, the plot and characters are a bit underdeveloped and one-dimensional.
Rules of the Game makes the observation about the effects of workplace toxicity and sexism/sexual politics on corporate culture. Though the sex and violence make this show obviously not for kids, parents could use it as an opportunity to discuss with older kids if and how they see these themes play out in real life.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about perpetuating toxic workplace culture in Rules of the Game. There are many instances where someone notices something negative happening but doesn't say anything. What makes someone do this? Have you ever been in a situation like this in real life? What motivated your decisions?
How does this show portray sexism in the workplace? Which characters are affected? How do they handle adversity? What pros and cons are shown of standing up?
What makes someone an alcoholic? How does alcoholism affect lives in and out of work? Does the show handle the topic responsibly and/or realistically?
TV Details
- Premiere date: February 27, 2022
- Cast: Maxine Peake, Susan Wokoma, Rakhee Thakrar
- Network: Hulu
- Genre: Drama
- TV rating: NR
- Last updated: May 19, 2022
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