The Deep
Common Sense says
- Netflix
- Kids' Animation
- 2016
Parents say
Kids say
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The parents' guide to what's in this TV show.
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that The Deep is a well-rounded adventure series that features some tense moments in which the main characters face danger from sea creatures and deep-sea elements. The story centers on a family of scientists who explore the ocean floor in search of clues to long-held secrets of the sea. They're guided by an eccentric character who holds secrets of his own, and their discoveries bring them closer to solving a family mystery as well. This show's focus on a family unit yields exceptional messages about working together, solving problems, and finding strength in those who love you. Expect a realistic level of sibling bickering and power struggles between parents and their teens but always a happy resolution and affirmation of strong family bonds and roles.
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User Reviews
Great family fun!
We LOVE this show!
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What's the story?
THE DEEP is an oceanic adventure series that follows the Nekton family, a team of scientists who explore the darkest places in the sea to search for clues to ancient underwater legends and creatures. Guided by the mysterious Nereus (voiced by Lee Tocker), Ant (Vincent Tong) leads the charge to reveal the secrets long held by the Guardians. Using high-tech exploration vehicles and state-of-the-art equipment, he and his sister, Fontaine (Ashleigh Ball), and their parents, Will (Michael Dobson) and Kaiko (Kathleen Barr), set out for the darkest places along the ocean floor to find clues to lost pirate colonies, sea serpents, and the like.
Is it any good?
This expertly rendered show's family-focused content and exciting adventures make it an excellent pick for families to enjoy together. It's brimming with mystery that even grown-ups will find genuinely entertaining, and it's one of those rare offerings that places parents in the middle of the action instead of off to the side in a more observational role. With Ant, Fontaine, and their parents working side by side, there are plentiful examples of positive relationships (including siblings!) and problem-solving.
The Deep dabbles in the stuff of legends, raising the prospect of giant sea serpents, sunken cities, and mystical age-old forces. Grade-schoolers will enjoy the blurred line between possibility and probability, but the suggestions might be too heavy for younger kids. What's more, the show is intense in parts, and characters face precarious situations that could frighten youngsters, so make a date to enjoy this one with your older kids.
Talk to your kids about ...
Families can talk about the roles within the Nekton family in The Deep. Who, if anyone, is in charge? Do others ever override another person's authority or break the rules? What are the consequences when that happens? By comparison, how stringent are the rules in your house?
What shared interests do your family members have? Is there such a thing as too much togetherness for your family? How do you find time for yourself when you're part of a group? Is that important to you, or do you enjoy being in the middle of goings-on?
This series suggests that there's still much for scientists to discover about the past and the future. Do you agree? Is research money spent on uncovering secrets of the past well spent? Why, or why not?
How do the Nektons demonstrate teamwork in The Deep? Why is this an important character strength?
TV details
- Premiere date: June 1, 2016
- Cast: Vincent Tong, Ashleigh Ball, Kathleen Barr
- Network: Netflix
- Genre: Kids' Animation
- Topics: Brothers and sisters, Great boy role models, Great girl role models, Ocean creatures, Pirates
- Character strengths: Teamwork
- TV rating: TV-Y7
- Available on: Streaming
- Award: Common Sense Seal
Themes & Topics
For kids who love the ocean
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Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.