Common Sense Media Review
By Jenny Nixon
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Mutant shark cartoon looks cheap, has stereotypes.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 7+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Street Sharks
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
STREET SHARKS is an animated series that ran for three seasons from 1994 to 1997. It centers on four brothers who are abducted and experimented on by the evil Dr. Paradigm -- their scientist father's research partner -- who has become obsessed with the idea of mutating humans using DNA from aquatic creatures and legendary villains from history such as Genghis Khan. Once they turn into monstrous shark/human hybrids, they spend their days attempting to foil Dr. Paradigm's nefarious plans while also searching for their missing father, Dr. Bolton.
Is It Any Good?
This is a lazy, cheaply animated cash grab of a kid's cartoon, which was clearly aimed more at selling tie-in toys (no longer available, of course) than presenting a cohesive or appealing story. The massive success of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles in the '90s inspired a slew of knock-offs hoping to capitalize on that popularity, Street Sharks is merely one of them. You'll hear the same goofy puns, each shark-brother has a "schtick" -- one is a jock, one is a scholar, etc. -- and there are groan-inducing sea-themed catchphrases galore. It's not the worst show ever, but is most likely to appeal to nostalgic adults.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the trend of 1990s-era shows about crime-fighting mutant brothers and friends. Can you think of other examples of this phenomenon?
How do you feel about the female representation in Street Sharks? Aside from Lena, who is shown to be brave and honest, how are most women and girls portrayed? Do you notice a difference between this and how women are seen in current cartoons and media?
TV Details
- Premiere date : September 1, 1994
- Cast : Andrew Rannells , D. Kevin Williams , Pam Carter
- Network : Peacock
- Genre : Kids' Animation
- TV rating :
- Last updated : July 17, 2024
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