TV Review: Xavier: Renegade Angel
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What Parents Should Know
Parents need to know that this animated Adult Swim series is
intended for mature audiences only (and opens with a disclaimer
saying so). It's full of crude references to oral sex, same-sex
relationships, and incest; cartoon nudity (buttocks and breasts
are visible; male genitalia is blurred); and blood (limbs are
torn from people and animals, etc.). Racial and homophobic
epithets ("honky," "dyke," and more) are used frequently, and
the stream of words like "ass," "bitch," and "hell" is
endless.
Families can talk about the use of stereotypes in TV shows. Why do show creators use derogatory language to create humor? Does using this language in adult programming make it more appropriate? Does anything in the show shock you, as well as make you laugh? Why? Families can also discuss how TV portrays people and cultures that seek spiritual guidance. Which cultures rely on ancient guides and rituals to guide them through life? What kind of answers are people who practice spiritual guidance looking for?
Common Sense Media Review
XAVIER: RENEGADE ANGEL is a decidedly adult-oriented
animated series that follows the narcissistic spiritual
wanderings of a half man/half beast named Xavier.
The odd-looking, self-absorbed creature embarks on a search for his father's killer ... after burning down his parents' house while they were still inside. Oblivious to the fact that he is responsible for the death, he travels the country, hoping to unlock the deep mysteries of his soul while helping others.
Unfortunately, the people that Xavier meets on his journeys are usually too narrow-minded to accept him into their community. It doesn't help when the untalented, rather powerless healer causes major problems while feeding his self-absorbed need to uncover life's deeper meaning. But with the help of his ancient spirit guide, Xavier usually manages to at least partially fix the messes he creates along the way.
Created by John Lee and Vernon Chatman, the show's computer graphic animation makes it look more like a video game than a TV series. And looks aside, this Adult Swim series isn't very entertaining. It features lots of crude sexual references, nudity, and gory violence. It's also full of offensive stereotypes of various groups (including homosexuals and small-town residents) and derogatory language. Some adults may enjoy this kind of humor, but it's definitely not for kids.
Fans may also enjoy the equally eyebrow-raising Wonder Showzen (also created by Lee and Chatman) or Minoriteam.
Common Sense Media is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing information to help parents make media and entertainment choices for their families.
