TV Review: The Pink Panther
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What Parents Should Know
Parents need to know that kids will find this animated
classic enjoyable for the same reason they find most other
shows enjoyable -- the stories are engaging, funny, and, at
times, action packed. But what sets this series apart from
other cartoons is that its entertaining elements are executed
in good taste, with very little content that could be
considered objectionable.
Families can talk about jokes. What makes a joke funny? What kinds of jokes are appropriate? How does the Pink Panther joke around, and when is he the subject of a bad joke? How is the cartoon series related to the live-action Pink Panther movies -- both the original and the remake? Which is funnier -- the movies, or the cartoon? Why?
Common Sense Media Review
THE PINK PANTHER cartoon series, a very loose adaptation of
the 1963 movie starring Peter Sellers, features a furry, pink
panther with the manners of an English aristocrat. Currently
available on DVD and airing on TV in reruns, this show has it
all: sophistication, humor, action, a cool Henry Mancini theme
song, and a dogged inspector (inspired by Sellers' character,
Clousau).
Unlike other shows from this era -- such as Tom & Jerry and The Perils of Penelope Pistop -- The Pink Panther is clever and funny without resorting to violence, questionable language, or sexual innuendo. Fans of almost any age will find the cool cat endearing whether he's starting trouble, running away from trouble, or saving the day.
In one episode, for example, the panther tries to buy a dog from a pet store, only to get thrown out once the owner realizes that he's practically penniless. A crook watches the incident from outside and tricks the panther into buying a rock in a box, telling him it's a dog. The entire tale is void of violence and weapons, even though the storyline involves a crook and an angry, money-obsessed store owner. Parents can use this example to teach their kids that trust is built over time -- and you should never accept gifts from strangers.
Another segment spoofs Cinderella. A homely girl trying to win a date with Pelvis Parsley is transformed into a radiant young woman when the panther steps in as her fairy godmother. He doesn't do it because he wants something in return -- he just enjoys rooting for the underdog and helping the greater good. Parents can use this example to explain to their kids why it's rewarding to do good deeds.
A few things to watch out for: Tobacco use is the show's greatest pitfall, with the panther himself smoking a cigarette during the opening credits. Supporting characters also smoke cigars from time to time. Plus, since the show doesn't have any dialogue, kids who can't read or don't understand the concept of money may not completely understand the jokes. This series relies on action, facial expressions, and the reading of signs to tell a story.
When watching The Pink Panther, expect subtlety. Even though the show is packed with humor and engaging plots, nothing is over the top (except maybe the music). Parents can relax because all of the jokes are cut and dried -- hidden innuendos, violence, and iffy language are nowhere to be found. The panther is a sweet, intelligent, lovable character, and his show is a clean, kid-friendly classic.
Families looking for a jazzy yet more contemporary alternative to The Pink Panther might also enjoy Kipper.
Common Sense Media is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing information to help parents make media and entertainment choices for their families.
