Parents' Guide to We Are Newcastle United

We Are Newcastle United TV show poster: man in soccer tricot, back to camera

Common Sense Media Review

Joly Herman By Joly Herman , based on child development research. How do we rate?

age 13+

Sports docu follows team's ascent; some language, brands.

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Parents Need to Know

Why Age 13+?

Any Positive Content?

Parent and Kid Reviews

What's the Story?

In WE ARE NEWCASTLE UNITED a football team in Newcastle, England, has suffered from poor management that has the team at risk of relegation into a lower-ranked league. An investment firm led by a British woman (Amanda Staveley) steps in, bringing a sought-after change of leadership -- and a boost of money. The new owners include the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia, raising questions about separation between the country and the fund. But when the newly-funded team starts to win matches, the fervent fan base doesn't hesitate to show its undying support. Will Newcastle United be able to play in the coveted European Champion's League? Or will they burn out before hitting the big time?

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say : Not yet rated
Kids say : Not yet rated

A sports documentary that features a lot of playing time, but also lots of time in the boardroom, this show feels a little like a P.R. piece. There's not a lot of criticism of the new ownership group from, well, anyone, in We Are Newcastle United -- certainly not a peep from the players who are thrilled to be paid astronomical sums to join a team that hasn't seen a win since the 1990s. But there are whispers of "sports-washing" by the press, regarding the investment group that is largely funded by Saudi Arabian money. Viewers might feel compelled to decide for themselves.

The joy of this show lies in witnessing how deeply the fan base in Newcastle adores their "Geordie" boys. From elementary school kids who attest to feeling their fandom in their bones, to grandparents who bring little ones to games, the real heroes are the fans. This show will be enjoyed most by sports lovers -- or students of sports management.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about how communication plays a crucial role in We Are Newcastle United. Fans are attuned to every detail of their team's journey. Are you aware of all the decisions that are made behind the scenes that communicate a brand to you?

  • Teamwork develops not only because of the chemistry that naturally occurs between people, but it's a skill that can be honed through practice. Have you noticed a bond that forms among people you work or play on a team with?

  • Players in this documentary discuss how perseverance has played a major role in their success. What do you pursue that gets better the longer you work at it?

TV Details

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We Are Newcastle United TV show poster: man in soccer tricot, back to camera

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