Common Sense Media Review
By Melissa Camacho
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Quirky recluse series interesting, but has rough language.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 11+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
THE LEGEND OF MICK DODGE is a documentary series about a mountainman living deep in the Hoh Rain Forest of the Pacific Northwest. The reclusive forest dweller known as Mick Dodge, who left the modern world behind 25 years ago, allows cameras to follow him as he travels barefoot around the mossy woods living off the land. From using pine cones as tooth brushes and living in trees to drinking water out of mushrooms and talking to animals and vegetation, he demonstrates how he's able to survive in the rugged environment by both respecting and becoming part of it. It isn't always easy, but by turning to the forest for what he needs, and with the occasional help of fellow forest dwellers, he shows the world how he's been able to dodge the secular world all these years.
Is It Any Good?
The Legend of Mick Dodge offers a voyeuristic look into the world of this third-generation outdoorsmen, who has opted to spend his life away from civilization. Much of the entertainment comes from watching Dodge substitute whatever the forest provides and time-honored natural remedies for modern conveniences.
Dodge is worthy of the local legends that surround him, thanks to his rugged lifestyle and occasional quirky behavior. But one can't help feeling that some of what is shown here is contrived in order to make his quiet life a little more exciting for television audiences. Nonetheless, the show gives viewers a chance to see what life can be like when one chooses to commune with the natural world.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about Mick Dodge's choice to allow cameras to follow him after leaving the contemporary world behind. Why do you think he decided to do this? To educate people? Fame? Money? Does he behave the same way on camera as he does when he is alone?
What is the difference between a documentary and a reality series?
TV Details
- Premiere date : January 7, 2014
- Cast : Mick Dodge
- Network : National Geographic Channel
- Genre : Reality TV
- Topics : STEM
- TV rating :
- Last updated : October 1, 2025
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