Television Review: Family Guy
Rated by 1 member
What Parents Should Know
Parents need to know that
Family Guy is very funny; the quirky scenarios can
induce giggles or even guffaws in grown-ups. But Seth
MacFarlane's show isn't meant to be watched by kids or young
teens. Unpredictable is the name of the game in the town of
Quahog, Rhode Island, where the Griffin family spends most of
its time watching television and getting into trouble. The dog,
Brian, and the infant, Stewie, are the most intelligent members
of the family -- which might set off a few alarm bells in terms
of inappropriate role modeling. Expect frequent sexual innuendo
and salty language (of the "bitch" and "damn" variety), as well
as some drinking and violence played for humor.
Families can talk about when politically correct attitudes are
helpful and when they can be harmful. Peter Griffin's love of
television above and beyond everything else could also be
discussed -- is this the way anyone should look at the world?
If tweens insist upon watching, be sure to take the time to
watch it with them to get a sense of what's going on.
A blend of slapstick and fantasy, Seth MacFarlane's FAMILY GUY -- resurrected for network broadcast after being cancelled and then becoming a huge hit on DVD -- is a TV show within a TV show. Characters include patriarch Peter Griffin (voiced by MacFarlane), who has visions that look like animated channel surfing; Stewie the infant (MacFarlane again), who spews vitriolic one-liners as he throws his bottle across the room; and Brian the dog (yup, MacFarlane does his voice, too), a sensitive, well-read fellow who enjoys his wine.
This wacky brand of fast-paced humor isn't for everyone. As a plot device, Peter's visions can serve as a distraction, which ultimately disrupts what might be a storyline. On the other hand, the constant cross-references to musicals, literature, plays, and other TV shows might amuse some viewers. Don't expect consistent content from this show.
The SimpsonsSouth Park
Common Sense Media is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing information to help parents make media and entertainment choices for their families.
