Common Sense Media Review
By Joly Herman
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Taut Vietnam war spy show has bursts of violence, smoking.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 15+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
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The Sympathizer
What's the Story?
In THE SYMPATHIZER, a man called "The Captain" (Hoa Xuande, Cowboy Bebop) is writing his confession in a wooden prison cell. His captors have demanded another recounting of the days leading up to the fall of Saigon when he was working as a communist spy under the guise of a South Vietnamese officer who was friendly with a CIA officer (Robert Downey, Jr., Iron Man). His position as a double agent raises questions about how much he loves his country -- and how much he loves the U.S., where he spent his college years. As the war began, his friends and family members suffered as Saigon is torn apart. Will The Captain be true to his ideology? Or will his ideology be tempered by his experiences?
Is It Any Good?
A thrilling double-agent story that embraces the chaotic storm of spy craft in a time of war, this intriguing series will be embraced by history buffs and action fans. Co-created by South Korean director Park Chan-Wook (Oldboy), expect an edge to The Sympathizer that questions the arrogance of U.S. world dominance. Robert Downey Jr.'s sleazy CIA contact, Claude, helps cement this point of view. There's a wink-wink humor at play in the background, too.
The Sympathizer is not for young teens or kids. It's best enjoyed by families who like spy dramas, and those who dig war-time action -- this show is doused in it.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about courage in The Sympathizer. How do victims of war brave their way through difficult times when they experience loss? What happens to these survivors after war is over?
The main character works for two governments. How does his perseverance get rewarded -- or punished?
Integrity is hard to come by in this show, unless it's a spy doing secretive duty for his country. How does integrity work in your life?
TV Details
- Premiere date : April 14, 2024
- Cast : Robert Downey Jr. , Hoa Xuande , Sandra Oh
- Network : HBO
- Genre : Action
- Topics : Activism , Adventures , History
- Character Strengths : Courage , Perseverance , Self-control
- TV rating :
- Award : Emmy - Emmy Award Nominee
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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