The Recruit
Common Sense is a nonprofit organization. Your purchase helps us remain independent and ad-free.
The Recruit
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.
Suggest an Update
A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this TV show.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that The Recruit is a spy series that mixes violent action and humor. It includes plenty of gun and physical violence -- including torture -- as well as blood and explosions. Language includes frequent use of "f--k" and variations of it, as well as occasional use of "s--t," "ass," "hell," "pissed," and "ball sack." Sex and sexual roleplay is referenced, and a man is shown urinating outside. Prescription drugs and illegal substances, including meth, are referenced, and characters drink socially and play drinking games. A number of genders and ethnicities are represented in supporting roles, including some in leadership positions.
What's the Story?
THE RECRUIT mixes action and humor to spin a subversive spy-thriller yarn led by rookie CIA attorney Own Hendricks, played my Netflix romcom regular Noah Centineo. Coming from creator Alexi Hawley (The Rookies, Castle,) the series finds the eager, fledgling lawyer way out of his depth when his mundane job unexpectedly turns him into a globetrotting man of mystery.
Is It Any Good?
Taking a cue from Slow Horses, Killing Eve, and other spy-thrillers that blend a bit of comedy into their cloak-and-dagger intrigue, this espionage romp ratchets the tension and tickles the ribs in equal measure. Unlike those smarter, more nuanced takes, however, The Recruit -- while slotting comfortably into the same sub genre -- feels a bit more familiar and formulaic.
Thankfully, its charming protagonist and strong cast of colorful supporting characters keep it engaging throughout. Coming off a string of popular teen Netflix romcoms, Noah Centineo -- as the in-over-his-head hero -- is especially appealing, while a quirky assortment of friends, foes, and co-workers nicely complement his starring turn. If you're craving some globetrotting action with a side of laughs, and a plot that won't strain your brain, The Recruit offers a hearty helping of TV comfort food.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about The Recruit's use of both action and comedy to tell its story. Does the latter undermine the former? Or does the action and drama benefit from the levity?
How does the actor's (Noah Centineo) role differ from his parts in other series. Is the former romantic comedy star believable in a more heroic, action-focused part? How do you feel about popular actors playing different types of characters?
Is the protagonist responsible? Is he good at his job? Do his good intentions make up for his mistakes?
TV Details
- Premiere date: December 16, 2022
- Cast: Noah Centineo, Aarti Mann, Vondie Curtis-Hall
- Network: Netflix
- Genre: Action
- Topics: Adventures
- Character Strengths: Communication, Courage, Perseverance
- TV rating: TV-MA
- Last updated: December 20, 2022
Our Editors Recommend
-
Slow Horses
Smart espionage thriller has language, violence, drinking.
-
Killing Eve
Fresh spy thriller is offbeat, entertaining, and violent.
-
Red Notice
Language, violence in global cat-and-mouse caper.
For kids who love comedy
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.
See how we rate