Television Review: Croc Files
What Parents Should Know
Parents need to know that kids squeamish around slithering
or scaly animals may be uncomfortable watching this program.
Featured animals have included scorpions, sharks, venomous
snakes, tarantulas, and, of course, crocodiles. The experienced
hosts aren't fazed by even the most suspicious creatures, which
affords them the chance to examine the animals in a hands-on
fashion. The show is full of enthusiasm and makes learning
animal facts fun.
Note: Host Steve Irwin was killed in September 2006
following an encounter with a wild stingray.
Families can talk about all of the fun facts they learn about
different animals. What do your kids think about the different
habitats of each animal? Are ecology and conservation a regular
topic in your home? What global impact does human activity have
on wild animals?
CROC FILES chronicles husband-and-wife team Steve "The Crocodile Hunter" and Terri Irwin as they bounce around the globe introducing viewers to one remarkable animal after another. Steve is clearly delighted with the animals he discovers -- everything is "beautiful" and "gorgeous," even a centipede that secretes an irritating liquid or a toad that urinates on his hands. He gleefully handles the most dangerous creatures, all the while advising viewers not to try this at home. Terri isn't shy, either, having the same love and fearlessness for nature. A message about conservation comes through loud and clear as the Irwins talk about the effects of hunting and habitat destruction.
Croc Files moves at a brisk, sometimes frantic, pace and covers a lot of material, presenting a few dramatic facts about each animal. On one hand, it's too bad that we don't spend enough time with any one animal to get to know more about its environment or behaviors. But on the other hand, the quick pace and the fascinating tidbits of information will keep even restless viewers hooked. The show has a definite attachment to the extremes of the animal world -- the biggest, most powerful, deadliest, etc. And the star's manic, sometimes campy enthusiasm is contagious.
Corwin's QuestJeff Corwin Unleashed
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