What Parents Should Know
Parents need to know that this live-action show focuses on
the importance of fulfilling civic duty and respecting other
people's property. Although this series is suitable for all
ages, parents might want to help viewers under 4 understand the
difference between slapstick humor and violence.
Families can talk about why it's important to be a good citizen. When is it appropriate to help someone in need by yourself, and when you should you ask someone (like the authorities) to help? What should you do if you witness a crime? Why is it wrong to steal?
Common Sense Media Review
BRUM honks the horn when it comes to civic duty. Currently
motoring about on Discovery Kids, Brum is a little yellow car
with an eye for mischief. In each episode, he escapes his
garage and saves the streets of London from distress.
The delightful Brit can accomplish anything by putting in his best effort. In one episode, for example, Brum rescues a dog who was stolen for his jeweled collar. Another segment features the car returning a birthday cake to its rightful owner. Some of the villains may be scary for younger viewers, but any frightening elements are overshadowed by lighthearted humor.
Jazz music serves as the show's backdrop and is certainly a prime ingredient in its charm. As in a silent film, dialogue is almost nonexistent. There's a little bit of narration, but the plot is largely dependent on the characters' physical comedy. This quality heightens some of the humor, but the fact that the heroes and villains' actions aren't verbally explained could prove confusing for younger viewers.
Brum's goal is to depict stories with humor. But since the show is live action, simple acts of humor could be mistaken for violence if parents don't explain them. For example, in the episode about the dog theft, the crook attempts to remove the jeweled collar with an overly large pair of garden shears. It's handled hilariously on screen, but it could be a perplexing message for kids.
When watching Brum, expect loud costumes, catchy music, silly dancing, and comedic choreographed coincidences. Since it moves much faster than most kids' programming, Brum is a good fit for kids with shorter attention spans and for parents who can't always stomach the monotony of other kids' shows. Overall, it's a great pick -- just be sure to know when to fill in the gaps!
Fans of Brum might also enjoy Thomas and Friends and Go, Diego, Go.
Common Sense Media is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing information to help parents make media and entertainment choices for their families.
