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Titles M through R

Please note: These viewer comments are from our VISITORS, not the Christian Spotlight staff.

Mad About You

Mad About You 1992–2019

An American sitcom series starring Paul Reiser and Helen Hunt as a New York City married couple

Caution—This is a show about a married couple who have sex. And they do it often. And they refer to it often. On one episode they were watching a video of them having sex and discussing their performance. I haven’t seen an episode yet that didn’t have a sexual theme or at least an undertone. Unless we need *more* sex on tv and *more* sexual plot lines, forget this show. I’m not very Mad About It.
Grant, age 26
Usually Okay—I have enjoyed watching Mad about you. Its the I LOVE LUCY of the 90’s. I hate to see it go off the air. It showed the issues real married couples deal with such as in-laws, extramarital affairs, children, and sex. I wish they wouldn’t have had the gay sister on the show. But I think all families in one way or the other have had a black sheep in the flock. Just like real families, they have had to learn to still love their family members even when they don’t agree with the things they do. Considering Jamie and Paul never go to church, the show is better then most the junk on TV today.
Donna M., age 31

MAD TV 1995-2009, 2016 (329 episodes)

MAD TV

American live-action sketch comedy series originally inspired by Mad magazine / The show was taped in front of a live audience and consisted of sketches, cartoon shorts, and musical performances. Much of its comedy parodied popular television shows, movies and music, as well as topical, political, and pop culture humor.

Avoid—…I had watched this show for awhile and actually started to enjoy it until I came to my senses and realized what I had been laughing at. You can’t believe how you get so desensitized when you watch these programs that contain all this violence. Why last week they had a skit on TAGS where Hannibal Lector came to Mayberry and started eating all the main characters. I actually started chuckling at this… Contains very vulgar and gross out comedy.
Jennifer Conway, age 23
Comments from young people
Caution—I used to watch this show and I enjoyed it, but with reservations. The show actually used to be funny, but then it got cruder and cruder and the real humor just disappeared. One episode my mother did not record because everything was raunchy and nothing was funny.

It contained an extremely vulgar Clinton parody… all humor has become either raunchy and gross-out and all R-rated now! It is impossible to find a good show. And because the show used to be funny (about four years ago), and I only saw the funny episodes on reruns, I would only recommend watching the reruns from about four years ago and NOT the new episodes because they are nothing but gross-out humor.
Charlie, age 13
AvoidMAD TV is like Saturday Night Live, but without any funny jokes. All of its humor is vulgar. Each episode contains several sketches that don’t make any sense. It also contains parodies of clay animation shows. In one sketch, Davie and Goliath went on a killing spree. Due to its content, I don’t recommend it to anyone.
Josh Johnson, age 18
Martin

Martin 1992-1997 (132 episodes)

American sitcom set in Detroit, Michigan starring Martin Lawrence and Tisha Campbell

Martin Payne (Martin Lawrence), a disc jockey with his girlfriend Gina Waters (Tisha Campbell). Martin works for the fictional radio station WZUP and later for local Public-access television station Channel 51. A common theme of the series is Martin’s selfish and free-spirited nature. Episodes often center on Martin’s inappropriate behaviors and incessant smart mouth towards his friends, neighbors, and whoever else finds themselves in his presence. When all is said and done, however, Martin loves his family and friends—it just takes dire situations for him to show it.

Caution—The bedrock of the show is the relationship between Martin Payne, a Detroit DJ/talk show host, and Gina, a marketing executive. Problem is, during the first few seasons, the couple is living together without the benefit of marriage. They do get married eventually. Funny show, but caution should be taken for the sex humor, mild profanity, and outrageous insults (usually directed at Gina’s best friend, Pam), and some violence (some of the characters are prone to fist fights).
Hillari Hunter, age 39
MASH

M*A*S*H* 1972–1983 (256 episodes)

also known as “MASH”

MASH (an acronym for Mobile Army Surgical Hospital) is an American war dark-comedy drama series developed by Larry Gelbart that follows a team of doctors and support staff stationed at the 4077th Mobile Army Surgical Hospital in Uijeongbu, South Korea, during the Korean War (1950–53). It stars Alan Alda, Loretta Swit, Jamie Farr, William Christopher, Wayne Rogers, McLean Stevenson, Larry Linville, Gary Burghoff, Mike Farrell, Harry Morgan, and David Ogden Stiers.

Usually Okay—This is hands-down my favorite show. It is one show that’s seemingly geared for the secular audience, but I hear God, Jesus, and the Bible mentioned quite a bit. Not many programs can claim that. I love that the chaplain in the show, Father Mulcahy, is portrayed with good respect. Whereas in many comedy shows if there’s a clergyman that’s not the central character, he’s usually shown as a bumbling buffoon. Of course, the show is not without its sins, but I find that another fave of mine, The Andy Griffith Show has several of the same sins as M*A*S*H.
Rena, age 35
Caution—How do you make a comedy about a war last for 11 years? I don’t know how they did it, but these guys did. The good: The acting in this show was top notch. Frank Burns, Radar, Cornel Potter, Henry Blake, Margret, Charles Winchester, BJ and of course Hawkeye Pierce are some of the most believable characters on TV, thanks to their players. Plus, I don’t care how many times I see Klinger in a dress, I crack up. Father Malchahy (sp?) might still be one of my favorite pastors on TV. Rarely are preachers on TV so giving, caring, and loving. The show was great at being side-splittingly funny at one moment, and painfully serious the next.

The not-as-good: Especially in the earlier years, womanizing and drinking were the main pastimes for the doctors. A few jokes revolved around what doctor was going to the "storage tent" with what nurse.

Also, some of the people could get a little foul with the language. For those who are more "conservative," the show was pretty liberal at times. It seemed that Hawkeye and BJ ALWAYS knew better than anyone else, and the show was a bit “preachy” in its last year or two.

Overall: This is one of the few reasons I ever watch TV anymore. It is a classic show, but not without its rough spots. The Final Episode - the highest rated show in the US - was a real tear jerker.
Justin, age 22
Usually Okay—M*A*S*H is certainly a show that plays a delicate game of balancing 80’s sitcom comedy writing with the serious nature of the Korean War. The goal of the show was to make the struggles of soldiers fighting in the ongoing Vietnam War known to the domestic viewers in the United States. It does a fine job of making those realities reflect the human experience of war, without becoming too gruesome for television at the time. The show also walked the fine line of portraying the realities of war, without openly decrying the efforts of the US Military in Vietnam, as the attitudes of society around the war were an already touchy subject for the pro-war and pro-peace movements.

Skillfully developed writing had to balance the support for American’s fighting overseas, while decrying the notion of war; any war.

While the show uses crude, often sexually hinted humor to drive some of the relationships among the cast, and the promotion of regular alcohol use, I believe M*A*S*H achieves a truthful image of the dangers of war, not only in the physical, mortal sense, but in the emotional and spiritual senses as well. I believe that that overall message that the creators of M*A*S*H tried to inspire their viewers with is one of finding joy in the bearing of one’s cross, and through the development of some of the characters, like Simon of Cyrene, helping others to bear their crosses as well.
Thomas (USA)
Matlock

Matlock 1986-95 (193 episodes)

American legal mystery drama starring Andy Griffith / The show centers on widower Benjamin Leighton “Ben” Matlock (Andy Griffith) who studied law at Harvard, and after several years as a public defender, established his law practice in Atlanta, living in a modest farmhouse in a neighboring suburb. Ben Matlock is a very expensive criminal defense attorney, who charges one hundred thousand dollars to take a case. Fortunately, he's worth every penny, as he and his associates defend his clients by finding the real killer. He is a renowned, folksy and popular, but cantankerous. He is known to visit crime scenes to discover clues otherwise overlooked and come up with viable, alternative theories of the crime in question (usually murder). Usually, at the end of the case, the person who is on the stand being questioned by Matlock is the actual perpetrator, and Matlock will expose him/her, despite making clear that his one goal is to prove reasonable doubt in the case of his client’s guilt or to prove his client’s innocence.

Usually Okay—Matlock is a show about an expensive Southern lawyer named Ben Matlock (Andy Griffith) who always wears a grey suit and eats hotdogs. His client’s are usually people who are wrongfully accused of a crime and indeed innocent. The story centers around Ben Matlock, his two daughters (who appear at different times throughout the nine seasons of the show), and his associates Michelle Thomas, Conrad McMasters, and Tyler Hudson who look for clues to help prove their client’s innocence.

The show is usually ok and really (to me) doesn’t show anything that would be objectionable to Christian’s and the people are shown getting murdered but not in a gory way. The thing about this show that pleases me is the references to Christianity and to Jesus usually mentioned by Griffith’s character. During the show you can most always hear Matlock strumming his guitar or yukeleleh, singing gospel songs and at times getting his client’s to sing along. My favorite episode shows him as a choir director at his church. If you like Murder She Wrote or Diagnosis Murder then I urge you to check this show out!
Jennifer Conway, age 22
Men in Black: The Series

Men in Black: The Series 1997-2001 (53 episodes)

American animated sci-fi series originally aired on Kids’ WB cable TV channel / The show features characters from the 1997 science fiction film “Men in Black.” The show is set in an alternate timeline to the “Men in Black” film universe. The most significant differences in the series are that Agent K did not retire, and Agent J is still regarded as a rookie. Agent L is, however, a part of the organization, as she was following the events of the first film.

Some episodes do incorporate aspects of the film franchise. While the series offers some internal continuity and extended plot arcs, it is primarily presented in standalone episodes. Some recurring themes include exploration of K’s origins, as well as J encountering individuals from his life prior to joining MIB.

Usually Okay—I think it is a better storyline than the movie. It does have some slangs. (H*** D*** and S***.) The violence is very low. The jokes are very funny. Though they believe in aliens it is a very good show. I recommend it for kids 6 and older.
James Garyson, age 32
also see: movie review
Midnight, Texas

Midnight, Texas 2017-18 (19 episodes)

American supernatural-horror drama series based on the book series of the same name by author Charlaine Harris, who also wrote The Southern Vampire Mysteries

On the run from his past, young psychic Manfred Bernardo (played by François Arnaud) is told by the ghost of his grandmother to seek out refuge in Midnight, Texas. There, he will find a community that can help him. Full of diverse characters—including a vampire, a witch, a fallen angel, a half-demon and a werecreature—Midnight faces numerous threats from the outside world as it welcomes the newcomer. Actor Josh Kelly as Walker Chisum plays an openly gay demon hunter who has an intense connection with resident fallen angel Joe Strong (Jason Lewis).

Caution—…I have become addicted to this show and find it very interesting and enjoyable to watch, however if you’re offended by vampires, demons, etc., then probably avoid this show. While it’s a real treat for the eyes, you just won’t appreciate it if you’re offended by those things. I love the action level though, and most characters are lovable. However, I don’t think, as a Christian, I should enjoy them as much as I have been.
chrisman28, age 27 (USA)
Q & A

What are DEMONS? Answer

DEMON POSSESSSION and Influence—Can Christians be demon possessed? In what ways can Satan and his demons influence believers? Answer

Who is Satan, the enemy of God and all people? Answer

Is Satan a real person that influences our world today? Is he affecting you? Answer

Millennium

Millennium 1996-99 (67 episodes)

American occult detective series created by Chris Carter (creator of “The X-Files”) / The show follows the investigations of ex-FBI agent Frank Black (Lance Henriksen), now a consultant, with the ability to see inside the minds of criminals, working for a mysterious organization known as the Millennium Group.

Avoid—Clearly based on occult themes. This show often has evil as an overriding theme. I started watching this when it first came out, but Satan seems to be writing all the current shows.
David Onder, age 29
Comments from young people
Caution—…Each and every episode tends to deal with the occult. But it is not as straight forward as that. The basic plot line is we have an FBI agent named Frank Black. He is approached by the member of an elite group/corporation known as the Millenium Group. As we work through the first series he is baited along an initiation trail for the group. At one stage it gets to the point where his wife separates from him, because he is focused too much on the groups’ goals, and is forsaking his family.

Although “The Millennium Group” is very occultic in its practices, this is in no way glorified. It is clearly a show for adults only, due to graphical content and occultic themes. If you enjoy "X-Files", this is a darker (in content) version along similar themes. An interesting journey into the life of one man tempted by the occult.
Jeremy Martens, age 17
Q & A

What is the Occult? Answer

The Occult—What does the Bible say about it? Answer

Moesha

Moesha 1996-2001 (127 episodes)

American sitcom series starring R&B singer Brandy Norwood as Moesha Denise Mitchell, a high school student living with her upper-middle class Black family living in the Leimert Park neighborhood of Los Angeles

Her father Frank (William Allen Young), a widower and Saturn car salesman (and later dealership owner), has married Dee, the vice principal at Moesha’s high school, much to Moesha’s disapproval. The show deals with teen social issues such as teen pregnancy, drug use, race relations, premarital sex, the death of a parent, and day-to-day issues teenagers faced at home and school. In one episode, the Mitchell family learns from her aunt that Moesha’s father Frank is the biological father of Dorian (Ray J), whom the Mitchells and Dorian himself believed to be Frank’s nephew. The shocking news of Frank’s infidelity during his first marriage turns the family upside-down and results in Dorian’s rebellion and Moesha’s relocation from her home.

Usually Okay—This is the first and only show on TV that tells a story from an African-American female teenager’s perspective. Moesha Mitchell and her family struggle with growing pains every episode. Her father, Frank, is a very strong figure who is not afraid to lay down the law whenever his daughter, his son Miles, or nephew Dorian have overstepped their bounds. It is also a nice touch to have presented the Mitchell family as a church-going one in a few episodes. Mostly free of stereotypes that are found in other African-American sitcoms.
Hillari Hunter, age 37

Monty Python’s Flying Circus 1969-74 (45 episodes)

British surreal live-action sketch comedy (generally satire and black-comedy) series created by and starring the comedy group Monty Python, consisting of Graham Chapman, John Cleese, Eric Idle, Terry Jones, Michael Palin and Terry Gilliam

Avoid—This is the most morally bankrupt piece of trash I have ever seen. Full of blasphemy, sick violence and levels of profanity and nudity that would be unacceptable on network TV in America (which itself contains too much), no decent Christian should go near this trash, and the fact that it is regarded as “classic” shows how this country needs firmer Christian values.
Chet, age 21
My Wife and Kids

My Wife and Kids 2001-05 (123 episodes)

American sitcom series starring Damon Wayans as Michael Kyle, the patriarch of a semi-dysfunctional upper middle class African-American family who rules his household with a unique and distinct parenting style / As Michael teaches his 3 children some of life’s lessons, he does so with his own brand of humor.

Usually Okay—Fairly pleasant sitcom, with an emphasis on how the dad deals with his wife, who’s on a career track, and his kids, who range from teens to little children. Many of dad’s methods involve showing the kids the consequences of unwise actions, such as the episode when he discovered the oldest son was experimenting with drugs. The parents appear to have a lot of love and understanding for their kids.
Hillari Hunter, age 39
Comments from young people
Caution—Though there is underlying humor that can be very enjoyable it does not out weigh the crude and perverse humor scattered throughout. There are continuous references to sex, body parts, and on one episode a young girls pregnancy. I think that supposed role models are models for how kids shouldn’t act.
Nicole Hoffman, age 15
Mysterious Ways

Mysterious Ways 2000-02 (44 episodes)

Canadian/American science fiction drama series produced by PAX TV, in association with Lionsgate Television and CTV

The series focuses on the search for explanations of, and evidence for, seemingly miraculous phenomena. This search is carried out by the protagonist Declan Dunn (Adrian Pasdar). Declan is a professor of anthropology at the Northern University of Oregon and is often compared with Indiana Jones due to his energetic enthusiasm for solving a mystery. His passion for miraculous events has its roots in a self-experienced mischance of being caught in an avalanche and getting out alive. He considers this to be miraculous and attributes it as the turning point in his life.

In several episodes he makes references to this event and the impact it had on his life.

Always ready to help out with the research, though sometimes they appear slightly reluctant, are Declan’s close friends Dr. Peggy Fowler (Rae Dawn Chong), a psychiatrist at a nearby hospital, and Miranda Feigelsteen (Alisen Down), a physics graduate student and Declan’s research assistant. Peggy is the most levelheaded of the three and is generally the one presenting the mundane alternatives to Declan’s theories. Her so-called “rational explanations” often provide no explanation whatsoever, e.g. “It was just a freak occurrence.”

Usually Okay—"Mysterious Ways" is one of those controversial shows that may or may not, depending on the week to week synopsis, be credible family viewing. The pilot episode immediately captured my attention, with a boy who fell through the ice and drowned, but was mysteriously hauled to the surface… and later awoke in the hospital. It as a miracle.

The two main characters are Declan Dunn, an Anthropologist who studies the unknown, and Peggy Flower, the hospital "shrink," who, since her husband’s death, no longer has faith in God. However, as the two explore together the unknown, Peggy’s faith is reawakened to the point where she begins to accept what happened in the past. The under-character is Miranda, a mysterious college student with a high IQ and hilarious dry humor.

The majority of the episodes are pretty good.

They’ve dealt with angels, demons, Christian theology, miracles, and Catholic beliefs.

Unfortunately, every other one in this latest season deals with ghosts, spirit channeling, and the odd “reincarnatedv” theme. A woman attempts to speaks to her dead husband through a medium. A ghost sends a message to his wife through a child.

There’s been so far in the series no sex or immorality between the leads; and the characters are deep and likable. Hardly any language, and a healthy respect for religion. Some definite miracles. But only time will tell what comes of a show that began with a promising glimmer. It’s one of my favorites, but I’ve skipped some of the episodes due to the previews. Keep in mind that some are creepy - one contends with a demon-possessed girl, so this show is definitely not for children. My rating? 6 out of 10
Charity Bishop, age 18
Mystic Knights of Tir Na Nog

Mystic Knights of Tir Na Nog 1998-99 / TV-Y7 (50 episodes)

Live-action adventure drama series / This show is based on Celtic legends. When a tyrant queen from the land of Temra invades the peaceful land of Kells, King Conchobar must rely on an ancient legend which foretells of an orphan who will find the mighty warrior Draganta and “bring peace to Kells for 1000 lifetimes.” The legend also tells of the four Mystic Armors and Pyre the fire dragon. The recipients of the Armors are Angus, a miscreant of sorts; Ivar, a Moorish prince; Deirdre, Princess of Kells; and Rohan, a destiny-bound druid’s apprentice and the young man foretold in the legend. They are joined by Aideen, a young fairy; Fin Varra, the king of Tir Na Nog; and Garrett, the eventual fifth Mystic Knight. Together, the five Mystic Knights continue to defend Kells from the Queen Maeve and all her evil magic.

Avoid—This show promoted as a "children’s show" is a prime example of the slide to evil of our society. It glorifies the working of magical powers both good and evil through the depiction of both witches, warlocks and sorcerers. Clearly, all believers are commanded to avoid “other” powers from the enemy. This show subtlety moves our kids to an acceptance of “other” power sources than from God alone. It is a show to be avoided.
Mike Cobb, age 38
Bridges

Nash Bridges 1996-2001 (122 episodes)

American police crime drama series starring Don Johnson (as Nash Bridges) and Cheech Marin as two Inspectors with the San Francisco Police Department’s Special Investigations Unit

Caution—Nash Bridges is a show that could use some cleaning up but for stronger Christians who like action shows, it’s a good one. Nash Bridges is a show of questionable morals that I wouldn’t suggest for teens and preteens. The main characters have all sorts of problems. Nash is a divorcee with two ex-wives; whom we haven’t seen since the second season; and a daughter who has no more morals than her father. Nash has lived with only one woman since the show began and the season finale a couple years ago made me sick because it showed more than most of the shows had. Nash has a sister who is a lesbian. One character on the show; Nash’s daughter’s fiance; converted to Christianity after cheating on her and screwing up his life. He portrayed a Christian really well except that he slipped up once on the show. They killed him off at the end of last season.

Joe, Nash’s partner, is a pathological liar and the type of person who would do anything for a quick buck. He’s always lying to someone or going out on one hare-brained scheme or another. It’s a cop show, so there’s some violence, though not as often as in some shows. In some ways, it’s a mild soap opera. It’s a good show if you like action and can keep in mind what’s right and wrong but if you can’t, don’t watch it.
Sheila Overturf, age 19
Neon Genesis Evangelion

Neon Genesis Evangelion1995-96 (26 episodes)

Moral Rating: Avoid

Japanese apocalyptic sci-fi mecha anime series / The show is set 15 years after a worldwide cataclysm, particularly in the futuristic fortified city of Tokyo-3. The protagonist is Shinji, a teenage boy who was recruited by his father Gendo to the shadowy organization Nerv to pilot a giant bio-machine mecha called an “vangelion” into combat with alien beings called “Angels.” The series explores the experiences and emotions of Evangelion pilots and members of Nerv as they try to prevent Angels from causing more cataclysms. In the process, they are called upon to understand the ultimate causes of events and the motives for human action.

The series features archetypal imagery derived from Shinto cosmology as well as Jewish and Christian mystical traditions, including Midrashic tales, Kabbalah and Gnosticism. The psychoanalytic theories of Freud and Jung also feature prominently.

Avoid—I have watched this series twice & while the animation is excellent & I enjoyed that aspect of it, this show is definitely one to switch off because in my opinion it portrays man as a creator on a par with GOD. The giant robots in the series (The Eva) are in fact living creatures—men, as such supposedly created by man from a being known as the first angel & named Adam. The series’ story line seeks to glorify man above GOD. It also, in my opinion, twists the words of the Bible and makes nonsense from them. For these reasons alone the series should be marked avoid!
Michael Eggleton, age 28
Usually Okay—While NOT a show for kids (the X-File-ish plot can go over an adult’s head if they aren’t paying attention!), this show makes you think and is a great stepping stone to discuss other religions and how they compare to Christianity. One thumbs down however due to the fact that the series ends on a cliffhanger and unless you can get a hold of a copy of the theatrical movies made after the series ended (called "Death and Rebirth" and "End of Evangelion" respectively) you won’t know how it ends. (By the way as one who HAS seen how it all turns out, it ain’t pretty!!).
Marvin Morley, age 33
Usually Okay—This is a Japanese animated program that takes an interesting perspective on events predicted in the Dead Sea Scrolls. The series is set in the year 2015, fifteen years after the "Second Impact", which devastated much of Earth. Humanity is forced to use the skills of several teenage children to fight the seventeen “angels”, who are seeking the destruction of the human race. The important question is, are the Angels from God? In these apocalyptic times we live in, the series considers many important questions about the nature of humanity and its relationship with the creator. It also encourages research into theology. This show is highly recommended for all Christians as it contains a great deal of insight.
Isamu Dyson, age 26
Comments from young people
Caution—You have to watch the entire series AND the movies to actually know what’s going on.(even then there are no definite answers to your questions). I really enjoy this series. Not only is it thought-provoking, the characters are so complex and detailed that I feel like I know them. The show does deal with man creating a “god” (the Eva), and its true purpose is discovered in the movie--to bring humanity to heaven. However, the results are disasterous. After viewing this, I was thankful that we can trust God for salvation and not have to rely our own doings. This is a very thoughtful (and controversial) show, and I think it is worth watching.
Katherine, age 18
The New Scooby-Doo Movies

The New Scooby-Doo Movies 1972-73 (24 episodes)

American animated mystery comedy series produced by Hanna-Barbera

Avoid—This isn’t your father’s "Scooby Doo." On the old half-hour "Scooby Doo" shows, the monsters and magic were always proven to be fake. With this new batch of "Scooby Doo" movies on Cartoon Network’s Cartoon Theater, that concept has been sent packing. While the “bad” monsters and magic are proven to be fake, there is now a new element of “good” monsters and magic. In one of the movies, a human and her dog turn out to be real aliens who help expose fake aliens. In another movie, "Wiccans" (the "politically correct" term for witches) use magic to assist in solving a mystery. In yet another movie, “good” magic is used to cause the dead to rise as “good” zombies. This is occultic programming at its worst - in the guise of children’s shows! Cartoon or no, I can’t imagine any parent letting their children watch these movies without fear of spiritual corruption!
Jason E. Hubred, age 29
Caution—I’ve never seen such children’s programming with an agenda before. The show was about two girls who called themselves "Wiccan." The plot set it up so they were portrayed as heroes. In the end, the worried father gives up and accepts their very unbiblical lifestyle. It totally glamourizes paganism. I recommend parents be very careful whenever letting children watch anything from Time Warner without supervision. By policy, Time Warner is pushing a humanistic, relativistic, non-biblical agenda. I’m so surprised and upset that they are mixing a political agenda into children’s cartoons.
Andrew Ziem, age 19
Now and Again

Now and Again 1999-2000 (22 episodes)

American sci-fi comedy-drama series starring Eric Close, Dennis Haysbert, Margaret Colin and Heather Matarazzo

When Michael Wiseman is killed in a tragic subway accident, the U.S. government covertly makes him an offer he can’t refuse; they “keep his brain alive” and place it into a new, genetically bio-engineered body. The doctor in charge of the experiment has grand plans for him, but all Michael wants is to get back to his grieving wife and daughter. For security reasons, the government forbids such contact… not that Michael is going to let that stop him.

The show revolves around the governments engineering the perfect human body for use in espionage, but not being able to perfect the brain. In an attempt to get the project up and running, they take the brain of overweight family man Michael Wiseman (Eric Close).

Given a new life, Michael is kept in an apartment where he is trained by government experts, led by Dr. Theodore Morris (Dennis Haysbert), in the art of espionage. Despite his new life and new abilities, Michael longs to return to his wife Lisa (Margaret Colin) and daughter Heather (Heather Matarazzo), who are themselves discovering that not all is as it seems with Michael’s death. Dr. Morris continues to experiment on Michael, testing the limits of his abilities and strength. Michael is occasionally used to complete secret missions or foil criminal activity. Lisa and Heather find themselves running out of money because the insurance company refuses to pay on Michael’s policy leading Lisa to become a realtor.

Usually Okay—This is definitely one of the best serials I have come across for a long time and it is so clean! It has all the positive qualities that you would like to see in a serial. I give this a definite thumbs up!
Allan Gracias, age 23
Usually Okay—Week to week, I continue to be pleasantly suprised by the positive (dare I say it?) family values of this show. In a recent episode, the teen age daughter was struck by lightning and was in the hospital, in a coma and expected to die shortly. A pastor was called in and actually prayed a pretty strong prayer. (When was the last time you saw that on network TV?) Of course the daughter didn’t die, (this is still Hollywood) but woke up out of a coma thinking she was seeing an angel outside her hospital room. (It was in fact her father, lit up while wearing a high energy, anti-gravity suit). The rest of the show explored the questions of existence of angels, belief in God, etc., always remaining respectful of traditional religious beliefs.

The premise behind this show (that a man falls in front of a subway train and the government harvests his brain for a super-human project and he can’t tell his family that he’s still alive or else he and the project will be terminated), is obviously a little far-fetched, but then the producers seem to know enough not to take themselves too seriously either. At times I’m reminded of "Quantum Leap", another "tongue-in-cheek" science-fiction show from a few years back. This show is a good take and from what I’ve seen so far, I have no problems recommending it as a good Friday night family watch.
Jon Campbell, age 42
Comments from young people
Usually Okay—A middle aged man dies and the government places his brain in the body of a twenty year-old superhuman machine. He is now basically government property to be used for capturing terrorists, etc. But he wants to see his wife and daughter who don’t know his brain is still around. "Now and Again" has no pervasive negative elements. It is really fun to watch. I’m guessing those above the age of ten will enjoy it the most.
Maylin, age 15
Once and Again

Once and Again 1999-2002 (63 episodes)

American series that depicts the family of a single mother and her romance with a single father

Lily Manning (Sela Ward) is a suburban soccer mom in her forties, who lives in Deerfield, Illinois. Recently separated from her philandering husband Jake (Jeffrey Nordling), Lily is raising her two daughters, insecure, anxiety-ridden 14-year-old Grace (Julia Whelan), and precocious 9-year-old Zoe (Meredith Deane). For support, she turns to her more free-spirited younger sister, Judy (Marin Hinkle), with whom she works at their bookstore. One of the show’s unique aspects was the “interview” sequences filmed in black and white and interspersed throughout each episode, where the characters would reveal their innermost thoughts and memories to the camera.

Avoid—This show is in my opinion over the top! To be honest I’ve only seen a couple of episodes but just from those episodes and the previews this is what I got out of it. It seems as though they are glorifying lifestyles that are anything but Biblical. From Sela Wards on screen sister having an affair with a married man to the older son using drugs with no remorse or punishment to a young teenage girl openly being gay…you be the judge if this is the kind of example you want your children to follow.
Rae, age 26
Caution—This show is supposed to be ABC’s sleeper hit of the season. They were smart to fill "NYPD Blue’s" time slot this past fall - I’m sure it helped gain their core audience. I’ve only watched this show a few times but it definitely gets under your skin. The positive: Strong acting and excellent chemistry between the main characters Sela Ward and Billy Campbell (show is written by the team that brought us “Thirtysomething”).

Realistic portrayal of struggles—both long-term and day-to-day—of families involved in divorce.

The negative: DIVORCE! The show revolves around a single man (divorced for 3 yrs) and a woman who is separated but not yet divorced who meet and fall in love. The chemistry between these two is undeniable but I am bothered (although not surprised because this is typical of TV) because the female character isn’t even divorced and she’s involved with another man. In addition, she has 2 daughters at home with her who are impressionable and affected by her actions.

I believe she has even slept with her new boyfriend on the show. In summary I am torn because the acting and adult chemistry is good, but the moral message seems to glorify the "if it feels good do it" mentality.

They spend a lot of time considering the consequences but ultimately end up satisfying themselves. Probably typical of our selfish culture but nevertheless another me-first message from Hollywood. I recommend this for adults only if you feel it won’t cause you to stumble. May be too emotional for those who have been involved in divorce.

Definitely not for children due to mature themes.
Martha Hochuli, age 38
OZ — The Final Season poster

Oz 1997-2003 (56 episodes)

American drama series produced for the HBO network / “Oz” is the nickname for the Oswald State Correctional Facility, formerly Oswald State Penitentiary, a fictional level 4 maximum-security state prison. The majority of Oz’s story arcs are set in “Emerald City,” named for a setting from The Wonderful Wizard of Oz (1900). In this experimental unit of the prison, unit manager Tim McManus emphasizes rehabilitation and learning responsibility during incarceration, rather than carrying out purely punitive measures. Emerald City is an extremely controlled environment, with a carefully managed balance of members from each racial and social group, intended to ease tensions among these various factions.

Under McManus and Warden Leo Glynn, all inmates in “Em City” struggle to fulfill their own needs. Some fight for power—either over the drug trade or over other inmate factions and individuals. Others, corrections officers and inmates alike, simply want to survive, some long enough to make parole and others just to see the next day. The show’s narrator, inmate Augustus Hill, explains the show, and provides context, thematic analysis, and a sense of humor.

Comments from young people
Caution—Being a Christian/Catholic, I see that “OZ” has many things that small children shouldn’t see. But I cannot ignore what is right about the show. In a recent instance on the show, a character forgave a man who raped, humiliated, and broke his legs and a man who betrayed him and broke his arms. The character has not been a good role model in the past, but by forgiving those two men, he became one because of that. Another thing it teaches is redemption and punishment.

One man on “OZ” has caused many deaths and hurt many people. But when his younger mentally challenged brother comes to the prison he is in and gets raped, he turns his life around and protects his brother. He may have done after he was sure his brother was safe, but he hasn’t killed or hurt anyone since (but he has done something to the man who raped his brother) I don’t think children should be watching this show, but I think its O.K for mature teens to watch.
Janet Parker, age 16
Avoid—…unavailable except on HBO in the United States. But up here in Canada, where I live, there are virtually no restrictions on what broadcasters are allowed to show on television; thus, films like “Carrie” and "Personal Best" can be witnessed, uncut, by one and all, and impressionable youth like myself can be introduced to a show like Oz through the medium of basic cable.

Oz revels in its complete lack of morality. Set in an experimental wing of a maximum security American prison, its characters are taken from every corner of society, and upon introduction their crimes are revealed in nauseating monochromatic flashbacks. Said crimes seem to be selected as stereotypes from the litany of disgusting offences we read about every day in the newspapers; drunk-driving resulting in death, cannibalism, armed robbery, gang killings, infanticide, etc. Indeed, the entire show seems to be assembled from stereotypes; it deals with unpleasant issues in American society, ranging from sexual harassment lawsuits to neo-Naziism, in as simplistic and outrageous a manner as possible. Homosexuality, gratuitous drug use, official corruption, black marketeering, blatant racism, suicide, religious sacrilige, totally nude male and female characters, incessant profanity, and extremely graphic and intense violence are all nightly mainstays.

…virtually everyone else I know who has watched this show was so disgusted by it that they were unable to watch for more than a few minutes. No parent in their right mind should allow their children to watch it, ever, under any circumstances.
Maxwell, age 17
The Parkers

The Parkers 1999-2004 (110 episodes)

American sitcom spin-off of UPN’s Moesha / The Parkers features the mother-daughter team of Nikki (Mo’Nique) and Kim Parker (Countess Vaughn). The show centers on the two as they both attend Santa Monica College. Nikki Parker was forced to drop out of high school when she discovered she was pregnant with her daughter Kim. After Kim reaches adulthood, Nikki decides to go back to school and graduates along with Kim. When Nikki reveals she wants to attend Santa Monica College too, Kim is initially mortified with this decision, but eventually accepts the situation. Nikki and Kim’s mother-daughter relationship evolves as roommates and as students. Nikki adjusts to the fact that her daughter is old enough to live on her own, while Kim realizes that Nikki has more going on than just being her mom.

Caution—The best thing about this show is the close relationship between Kim Parker and her mother, Nikki. It is explained that Nikki was an unwed mom, but went on to make a better life for her and her daughter. Both mother and daughter attend junior college. Nikki is sweet on Professor Ogilive and Kim is boy crazy; there is a lot of sexual innuendo for a family sitcom. Nikki and best friend Andell are always making references to a brand of wine they like to drink. Otherwise, a funny show.
Hillari Hunter, age 39
Passions

Passions 1999-2008 (2231 episodes)

Morality Rating: Avoid

American soap opera series following the lives, loves and various romantic and paranormal adventures of the residents of Harmony. In the world of power and money, the wealthy and powerful Crane family rule the town of Harmony from their mansion on Raven Hill.

Storylines center on the interactions among members of its multi-racial core families: the African American Russells, the white Cranes and Bennetts, and half-Mexican half-Irish Lopez-Fitzgeralds. The series also features supernatural elements, which focus mainly on town witch Tabitha Lenox (Juliet Mills) and her doll-come-to life, Timmy (Josh Ryan Evans). Prominent character Simone Russell eventually comes out as Lesbian and is shown having sex with her girlfriend Rae Thomas. In later episodes longtime hero Chad Harris-Crane is revealed to be cheating on his wife with another man and the men are portrayed in bed together, committing (albeit unknowingly) incest. The show also portrayed the character Vincent as an intersex person who became pregnant with his own father’s son. A recurring theme on “Passions” is sexual violence.

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Avoid—I was addicted to this soap before I started listening to God more. Not to mention when my discernment meter went up my taste for this show dropped. This is something that will definitely churn your stomach. There’s many objectional things. Such as witchcraft. Charity is a witch with powers (supposedly a good witch.) Sure she’s cool and pretty but we all know where witchcraft comes from! And a clue is in her closet! As well there is a woman who is a witch who tries to get Charity over to the dark side. Charity believes in God right? So how can she be a witch too? There is also a lot of sexual behavior. Like pre-marital sex (almost all the characters), there is also a woman named Ivy although she was married to Julian she tries to have an affair with Sam who is also married with children. Terissa is intoxicated and raped by Julian, her fiance’s father. Murder, death and coming back to life… Stay away from [Passions]. It’s addictive and not of God!
Charlene Hickson, age 18
Pensacola: Wings of Gold

Pensacola: Wings of Gold 1997-2000 (66 episodes)

American action/adventure drama series based at the Naval Air Station Pensacola in Pensacola, Florida. Although set in Florida, it was largely filmed in San Diego particularly at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar (MCAS Miramar). Cast members in season 2 were part of a squadron mimicking VMFAT-101, the F/A-18 instructor squadron based in Miramar. Outdoor scenes were filmed in San Diego and MCAS Miramar while indoor scenes were filmed at Stu Segall Studios in San Diego.

Starring: James Brolin as Lt. Col. Bill “Raider” Kelly, Kenny Johnson, Kristanna Loken, Kathryn Morris, Rodney Rowland, Rodney Van Johnson, Salvator Xuereb, Brynn Thayer, Bobby Hosea, Michael Trucco, Sandra Hess, Barbara Niven, Felicity Waterman, and David Quane
Avoid—…there is too much sexual tension and implied sex. Not only that, but almost every show deals with a political or terrorist or hostage situation that always seems to be solved by violent acts. I think the combination of the two would make the show questionable for pre-teens and younger teenagers.
Carl Fuglein, age 51
The PJs

The PJs 1999-2001 (44 episodes)

American stop-motion animated Black sitcom series starring Eddie Murphy as Thurgood Orenthal Stubbs (aka “The Super”) / The title is an abbreviation for “the projects,” referring to the show’s public housing highrise. Much of the show’s humor is derived from Thurgood’s unwillingness to repair the dilapidated projects or deal with the many frustrations of leading a community of the urban poor. Despite his laughably poor education, he is shown to be kind and a natural leader when the situation calls for it.

Comments from young people
Avoid—The PJ’s are the worst animated show I’ve ever seen. It’s as bad as South Park, but PJ’s comes on earlier, when children can see it. The show revolves around a building superintendent working in the projects. Other characters include a drug addict. No one ever helps the drug addict; he’s just seen as an annoyance. Other characters include a grumpy and senile woman, a voodoo priestess, and a Rastafarian who is always in a cloud of smoke. I can’t believe this show is still on the air. I expected it to be cancelled after the pilot episode.
Josh Johnson, age 18
Pokémon

Pokémon 1997-____ (1,232+ episodes)

Japanese anime series / The shows follow Ash Ketchum, young trainer of fictional creatures called Pokémon. Joined by his partner Pokémon Pikachu and a rotating cast of human characters, currently Goh, Ash goes on a journey to become a “Pokémon Master” and compete in various Pokémon-battling tournaments called Pokémon Leagues.

Avoid—As a Christian parent, I find many things in the Pokémon TV show that I have a problem with. First, is the issue of animals (monsters) fighting. If they were puppies or cats the show would never air. But since they are imaginary monsters, it’s okay if we teach our kids that they can fight, and that we should encourage them to fight.

Second, is the issue of psychic Pokémon. By using their psychic powers the pocket monsters can defeat others. Psychics and Christians shouldn’t mix.

Third, is the evolution question. Pokémon teaches that it’s just a matter of fact that the pokemon can evolve, and they sometimes even have the choice. This is definitely contrary to the teachings of the Bible.

Fourth, it’s the obsession. I personally don’t know of any kid with most of a set of Pokémon cards that isn’t totally engrossed by the game and the TV show. This is contrary to the teachings of Jesus and the Holy Scriptures. I’m amazed at the number of Christian parents who say it’s just a game, it’s just a fad, it’ll go away. In the mean time, what are our children learning about God through this program?
Scott Frederick, age 24
Avoid—I knew little about Pokémon. My first exposure was when my son won a Pokémon GameBoy. I let them watch the show. Then my 9 year old began to play and it was all he did. I became concerned and watched the show for myself. It was appalling. The boy was “possessed” (their word). He was levitating. An evil ghost was trying to take them away. Two of the older boys were becoming charmed by this ghost. The girl tried to scare the ghost away using various charms, garlic, etc, and finally pulled out a cross. I do not like the cross being on the same level as just another charm. It belittles what Jesus did for us.

I threw the GameBoy cartridges in the burn barrel, much to the dismay of their classmates. I just could not in good conscience promote this by giving them away. It is not just a cartoon, and they ARE directly assaulting our children and beliefs. We are influenced by what we see. Just ask the advertisers.
Katherine, age 45
Caution—I think “Pokémon” is cute. Some of the characters are a bit scary—that is true. But with parental supervision, you should be just fine. As for the Evolution theme, my kids have never thought about it. It is the adults that are talking about that. I have more problems with my kids coming home from school and talking about Evolution that they learned from their teachers. After all, if your teacher tells you it must be true! I think as Christians, we can over-do some things and make "mountains out of mole hills"…“Pokémon” will go away one day, just as other cartoons have. I think we need to be more concerned about shows and music that make direct assaults at our children, family and beliefs. There are plenty of them.
Theresa, age 37
Caution—Premise of the series—young Ash Ketchem dreams of becoming the world’s greatest pokemon master. He sets out with his first pokemon, Pikachu to travel the world and earn 8 badges so he can enter the pokemon league championships. Along the way he meets two other youngsters who travel with him to see his dream through. They end up having many adventures together. The show is Japanese anime where everyone is cute, even the bad guys. The show is based on the popular video game Pokémon for Nintendo. The animation is okay although compared to other cartoons today it borders on old style.

The catch phrase of the show and game is "gotta catch them all" which is in reference to the pokemon. The pokemon are the animals, for lack of a better word, that seem to be both wild and domesticated. They all have some sort of trick, power or ability. The humans try to collect all 151 species of these pokemon who they then battle the pokemon against each other.

Some of the things that are good about this show are the ideals of friendship and kindness to animals and humans which is displayed many times in the show. A lot of times the animals will help the humans and vice versa. Another nice thing is the incredible gentle world they are on. Ash is only ten and his friends only slightly older, and yet he travels the world without worry of muggers or any other sort.

Now on to the bad, and this is very serious. First and foremost is that the theory of Evolution is promoted heavily on the show. The basic tenet of evolution is promoted: that all life evolves to become bigger and better. The way this is portrayed and promoted is through the pokemon. Each pokemon has a base first form with starting powers etc. They evolve by battling the other pokemon into better, bigger, stronger and with more powers than before. All of this is wrong if your a Christian because we believe that all things were created by God. The evolving is pretty heavy at times and is given as scientific fact on the show.

Secondly, some of the pokemon names and animals might come off as slightly scary at times. Some of the powers of certain pokemon come off as occult and eastern mysticism is also promoted in the form of festivals.

Overall this show is not too bad to watch if you simply keep an eye and ear out for the things mentioned above. It is a cute show. You should explain to your kids about the things mentioned above so they do not get confused. You may want to scan it first just to judge yourself.
Rachele, age 24
Caution—This show I believe is in the caution/questionable category or to even avoid. I have only watched a few shows with my kids and will not allow them to watch any more. Watch the show and see for yourself. This cartoon has kids using the pokemons to fight (violence) other pokemons to solve differences or problems, and just for no reason. I believe this could influence my kids the same way. The pokemons will “morph” or change to a bigger or worse character. I have also seen a ghost in one episode. Also with the school ban in several states, where kids aren’t getting as much done.
Mark, age 38
Comments from young people
Usually Okay—…I am personally a huge fan of the show… the pokemon [do] evolve ([using] micro-evolution) to adapt to the stress placed on them through growing and [due to] Pokémon matches. Secondly, I do however agree that some of the pokemon’s abilities in the series and movie do hinge on occultist beliefs. There are a few types of Pokémon that have or are referred to as psychic pokemon due to the nature of their powers—such as [the ability to] disable another Pokémon’s moves [as] useless. And psychic. A mental blast projected at the opponent with devastating results…
Stephen Baker
—Pokemon is a show about weird animals called “Pokemon.’ In the show, they capture animals without their consent. They are forced to live in hard red balls. “Team Rocket’ is offensive to animals everywhere. James is seen CROSSDRESSING AS A GIRL. EVEN THOUGH HE ISN'T ONE !!!… Jesse does the same, but instead of dressing as her GENDER, she dresses as a BOY.
Manny, age 78 (United Kingdom)
Popular

American teenage comedy-drama produced for The WB network / The show stars Leslie Bibb and Carly Pope as two teenage girls who reside on opposite ends of the popularity spectrum at their high school, but are forced to get along when their single parents meet and fall in love

Brooke McQueen (Leslie Bibb) and Sam McPherson (Carly Pope), students at Jacqueline Kennedy High School, are polar opposites. Brooke is a popular cheerleader and Sam is an unpopular journalist. Their respective groups are forced to socialize when Brooke’s father and Sam’s mother get engaged and the two girls have to share a house.

Plots revolve around the girls’ school life, rival groups of friends, mutual animosity and plan to separate their parents.

Avoid—This show is highly sexually suggestive. I am a father and watched the first 20 minutes of the show (1/19/01) with my 15 year old daughter. The setting for the show involves teenagers in highschool. They went from one couple to another all about whether or not they will have sex. In one scene two girls were watching a porn movie so that they can find out what guys want in a girl. In another, two guys hired a prostitute for their virgin friend. This is a show kids should avoid!
William Hernandez, Jr., age 36
The Powerpuff Girls

The Powerpuff Girls (reboot) (2016–2023)

An American animated superhero action television series and a reboot of the Cartoon Network series of the same name created by Craig McCracken. It follows Blossom, Bubbles, and Buttercup, a trio of superpowered girls living in the city of Townsville who are frequently called upon by the townsfolk to protect its residents from evil. The girls were created in a lab by the scientist Professor Utonium, who sought to create the perfect little girls by using sugar, spice, and everything nice along with the accidental addition of the ingredient Chemical X, the source of the girls’ superpowers.

Caution—Adult humor… not actually for kids. Only good thing about this is that it teaches teamwork, but at the same time it teaches that violence is the answer to doing bad. Just a little crime, though maybe an accident, can turn you black-and-blue. Like in the episode "Mime For A Change," the clown didn’t know what he was doing when he turned everything into black-and-white, but he still received a punishment. A crime like that should be just forgiven. This show is definitely not for kids, or maybe even christians.
ICQgirl, age 13
Caution—I have watched this program one or two times and find it to be targeted mostly at adults. The humor and story line cannot be understood by children. It is extremely violent and I do not recommend it allowing children to watch it.
Carla, age 28
Usually Okay—This is one of the best cartoon shows I’ve ever seen. It’s sort of like a spoof of classic super-hero cartoons, except that the heroes are three 5-year old girls. Overall, this is a very good show, except for the violence. In one episode, one of the powerpuff girls “finds” a set of golf clubs and gives them to the Professor for his birthday. She later learns that “finding” something and not giving it back to its owner is the same as stealing. This show is full of moral topics that young children deal with, but without being preachy. I showed "Powerpuff Girls" to my younger cousin, and he loves that show. I’m glad. I’d rather he watch "Powerpuff Girls" than those ultra-violent "kid’s shows" like "Mystic Knights".
Josh Johnson, age 19
Usually Okay—Three ultra-cute kindergarten aged girls - Blossom, Bubbles and Buttercup - are created due to a botched expiriment by Professor Utonium. They have super powers and save Townsville from villains and monsters. They are supported by the Professor, who is a VERY good father figure for them. The good: The cartoon is very fun. The girls use teamwork to win. They have much love for each other, their town, and their Professor. Many moral issues are presented, but are not heavy handed at all. The Professor -their father figure- cares for the girls very much, and is not afraid to punish if he needs to (which isn’t much for these girls). He centers his priorities around them, not his work.

The “bad”: this is a somewhat violent cartoon. It’s all cartoonish, but can be excessive for very young kids…or for those hyperactive kids who have a hard time deciding between fact and fiction. Overall: This is a creative, funny, and silly cartoon. The humor is usually found in the idea of 5-year-old, cute-as-a-bug girls beating up giant monsters. It is “adult” humor without the adult language or adult sex (much like "Pinky and the Brain").
Justin, age 22
The Practice

The Practice 1997-2004 (168 episodes)

American legal drama centering on the partners and associates of a Boston law firm / Conflict between legal ethics and personal morality was a recurring theme with light comedy being occasionally present. Stars include Dylan McDermott, LisaGay Hamilton, Steve Harris, Camryn Manheim, Kelli Williams, Michael Badalucco, Lara Flynn Boyle, Marla Sokoloff, Jason Kravits, Ron Livingston, Jessica Capshaw, Chyler Leigh, Rhona Mitra, and James Spader.

Caution—Overall “The Practice” is a high quality show and they usually try to address some issue in court, that is well worth consideration. However, sometimes they end up promoting the wrong thing to do. For instance in one episode, a young girl is being prosecuted for dealing drugs and getting caught with some on her. She gets away scott free even though the judge said himself she thought she was guilty, what’s worse is that she tells her lawyer that the next time she gets in trouble she will come to her again. Watch the show but realize where they mess up and talk it over with your family members, use it as a way to bring up heavy topics for discussion.
Jared Olinger, age 17
Usually Okay—I have been watching “The Practice” for about 3 years now and have enjoyed almost every episode. I like it because they keep the characters mostly on job and don’t show too much of their "personal lives" which is where most shows turn to sex and other questionable things to hike their ratings. The shows are usually just about the cases. Anyway, it’s a great show, and I highly recommend it.
Ray, age 26
The Pretender

The Pretender 1996-2000 (86 episodes)

American action drama series / The shows follow Jarod (Michael T. Weiss), a young man on the run who is a “Pretender”: a genius impostor able to quickly master the complex skill sets necessary to impersonate a member of any profession. In each episode, Jarod assumes a new professional identity (e.g., doctor, lawyer, soldier) in his quest to uncover his origins, deliver justice to criminal wrongdoers who evade the law, and stay one step ahead of The Centre, the sinister think tank that kidnapped Jarod as a child to exploit his Pretender abilities.

Usually Okay—I really enjoy this show. I would recommend this to almost anyone. It is the only show I watch regularly. I think it might be confusing and maybe scary to children, as they can’t understand what going on, but for adults, I think it is great.
Erin, age 19
Caution—Tends to be a bit on the violent side. It can be viewed that what was done to Jerod as he was growing up as being sadistic. Language is bad at times.
Tim Emmerich
Promised Land

Promised Land 1996-99 (68 episodes)

A family devotes their lives to traveling the country to help those in need—an American drama series starring Gerald McRaney. / It is a spin-off from Roma Downey’s series “Touched by an Angel.” Russell Greene (Gerald McRaney) is on a divine mission to “redefine what it means to be a good neighbor and recapture the American dream.”

To do this, Russell and his family traveled around the country in a beat up Airstream trailer, helping people in need, looking for work, and learning from their experiences. Russell’s family included his wife Claire (Wendy Phillips), who was licensed to homeschool their kids while they were on the road; his mother Hattie (Celeste Holm), who updated a hand-embroidered map to show all places they had traveled; teenage son Josh (Austin O’Brien); daughter Dinah (Sarah Schaub); and young nephew Nathaniel (Eddie Karr), who had been abandoned by Russell’s troubled brother Joe (Richard Thomas).

Erasmus is an old friend of the family who lived in Chickory Creek, the small town in Kentucky where Hattie grew up. The family frequently returned to Chicory Creek to celebrate holidays and to rest. Occasionally they were assisted by Tess (Della Reese) or other angels while they tried to help people overcome their personal problems or rekindle their lapsed faith.

Usually Okay—We enjoy watching this show as a family. It shows many family values sadly missing in today’s TV line-up. When the grandchildren come in they know the proper shows will be watched, and this has become a favorite. Was very sorry it has been taken off the Thursday night line up, and hope it will be returned.
Mary Dougherty, age 69
Usually Okay—This is a great wholesome family show in which none of the Trinity are shown in a negative way. While it is certainly not a Bible study, the Lord is glorified and called [upon] frequently. I enjoy watching this with all my family.
Dennis White, age 47
Comments from young people
Usually OkayPromised Land is a quality family show that I recommend to anyone interested in family programming and quality. The Greenes (the family the show is about) travel across the USA and help people with problems while being helped sometimes too. The Greenes started across the USA with word from Tess (angel supervisor on Touched by an Angel) that God wanted the Greenes to travel across America and help people while seeing the country. I love to watch the show each Thursday and look forward to seeing where the Greenes will end up each week. This new season the Greenes will be settling down in a racially mixed neighborhood in Denver, Colorado.

Hopefully with the Greenes settling down the show can develop more plot lines and develop each character more. One of the characters, Josh Greene, who is played by Austin O’Brien, is a Christian. Austin has stood up for his beliefs on the show and in real life. We need some more actors/actresses that will stand up like Austin and say to the world that they are a Christian and not ashamed of it.
Nathanael Worthington, age 17
Providence

Providence 1999-2002 (96 episodes)

American medical drama series starring Melina Kanakaredes / The show revolves around Dr. Sydney Hansen (Kanakaredes), who left her glamorous job in Beverly Hills as a plastic surgeon for the rich, so she could return to her hometown of Providence, Rhode Island, and be with her family. Sydney lives with her father Jim (Mike Farrell), brother Robbie (Seth Peterson), sister Joanie (Paula Cale), and Joanie’s baby Hannah in a large home in suburban Providence that also houses her father’s veterinary clinic. Sydney’s mother Lynda (Concetta Tomei) dies in the first episode but continues to appear to Sydney as a spirit, and to offer advice.

Avoid—A big fan of the show for awhile I quickly changed my tune. Now I would say avoid. 1-The show makes pre martial sex seem common place and a normal part of life against Biblical standards. 2-Most of the characters quickly become corn and/or annoying especially the younger daughter Joanie. The only solid, well-developed character, the father, Jim, gets into a accident which changes him. 3-As a show in general, the plot is flat and disappointing.
Nicole Hoffman, age 15
Usually Okay—This is a sweet family show. It has comedy and drama. Even though it’s not always believable, it is always enjoyable. Younger kids probably won’t find it interesting, but if they do, it’s usually wholesome viewing material.
Ali S., age 22
Quantum Leap

Quantum Leap 1989-93 (97 episodes)

American sci-fiction series created by Donald P. Bellisario / It stars Scott Bakula as Dr. Sam Beckett, a physicist who leaps through spacetime during an experiment in time travel, by temporarily taking the place of other people to correct historical mistakes. Dean Stockwell co-stars as Admiral Al Calavicci, Sam’s womanizing, cigar-smoking companion and best friend, who appears to him as a hologram.

The series features a mix of humor, drama, romance, social commentary, and science fiction.

Usually Okay—I have been a big fan of this show since it first aired back in 1989. The opening scene of the show explains it all. It’s about a scientist named Sam Beckett who while trying to prove his theory that people could travel within their own life time puts himself in his Quantum Leap accelerator and accidentally “leaps” himself into the past. He is guided by his friend Al who is still in the future so he appears to Sam as a hologram who Sam can see but other people can’t, that’s because Al has tuned the head computer named Ziggy to Sam’s brain waves only.

The show centers around Sam leaping into the place of the person back in time while that person leaps to the future and is held in a room called "the waiting room" so Sam can fix what is wrong right again.

He believes he is being leaped around by God in order to help people. Al leaps around with him to tell him why he thinks he’s there to do, every good deed he does causes him to leap to the next place.

Oh yeah, and Sam see’s the persons reflection in the mirror that he replaced. I know my review sounds confusing but believe me it makes sense if you watch it from the very beginning.

My favorite episode is called "A Song for the Soul" where he leaps into the place of a female teenager of an all girls singing group. He must help keep the lead singer out of the clutches of a sleezy nightclub owner named Bobby (Eric LaSalle) and help reunite the girl with her father who is a minister.

The ending is sweet because she sings his eye is on the sparrow to her father and they reunite again. There are questionable scenes in some episodes with sex, but almost all the episodes have wonderful heart warming stories of faith, love, humor, and a good message of helping others. Check this show out and see what you think.
Jennifer Conway, age 23
Quantum Leap revival

Quantum Leap 2022–_____

An American science fiction television series aired on NBC. Set 30 years after Dr. Sam Beckett stepped into the Quantum Leap accelerator and vanished, follows a new team that must restart the project hoping to understand the mysteries behind the machine and its creator.

For reasons unknown, Dr. Ben Song, the new project’s lead physicist, has uploaded new program code to the project systems and used the upgraded accelerator to leap back in time. He becomes lost in the past just as Beckett did, living the lives of other people and changing history in hopes of getting back to the present. Project employee Addison Augustine, who is Ben's fiancée, acts as his liaison with the project, appearing to him as a hologram only he can see and hear, just as the previous project’s observer Al Calavicci did for Beckett.

Starring: Raymond Lee, Caitlin Bassett, Mason Alexander Park, Nanrisa Lee, Ernie Hudson
The Real World

The Real World (1992-2019, 614 episodes)

Reality-TV series / Seven to eight young adults (all strangers) are picked to temporarily live in a new city together in one residence while being filmed non-stop. The individuals are typically chosen to represent different races, sexes, sexual orientations, levels of sexual experiences, and religious and political beliefs. The shows depict issues relevant to contemporary young-adulthood, such as sex, prejudice, religion, abortion, illness, sexuality, AIDS, death, politics, and substance abuse. It also has a reputation for showcasing immaturity and irresponsible behavior. Overt sexual behavior was minimal during the show's early seasons, relegated mostly to discussion. In subsequent seasons, the level of sexual activity greatly increased, beginning with the Miami season, which depicted or touched upon activities such as exhibitionism, frottage, voyeurism, and threesomes.

Avoid—One of the most heinous shows on T.V. [this one’s on MTV]. Casual sex, sexual innuendo, foul language, hedonism…
George, age 36
Avoid—The steady show of homosexuality is pushing children to view it as normal behavior. I strongly disagree with this use and The Real Worlds way of subjecting our children to their way of life.
Micheal Ross, age 21
Caution—An interesting experiment: seven young people in their late teens and early twenties of various genders and races are put into a fabulous house in a different city each season to see how and if they get along. The first and arguably best of the current reality show craze. Roommates get into deep subjects such as racism, politics, sexism, relationships, etc. Some of the roommates have and make questionable lifestyle choices, and this is shown onscreen. A good way to have discussions with teens about what and what is not acceptable behavior.
Hillari Hunter, age 39
Avoid—Contains nudity, homosexuality, fornication, bad language, calumny.
Rosemary Gunsett, age 54
Comments from young people
Caution—…an interesting show. Though it has a lot of things I would object to it provides good topics for discussions on morality, judgement, and lifestyles. It also is a learning experience in topics such as racism, sexuality, and choices.
Rebecca, age 13
The Red Green Show

The Red Green Show 1991-2006 (305 episodes)

Canadian series that combines sitcom and sketch comedy—a parody of home improvement, do-it-yourself, fishing, and other outdoors shows / The shows star Steve Smith (as Red Green)—a handyman who tries to find shortcuts to most of his projects, trusting most of his work to duct tape. Red is the president of the Possum Lodge, a fictional men’s club in the small northwestern Ontario town of Possum Lake. He and his fellow lodge members have their own television show in which they gave lessons and demonstrations in repair work, outdoor activities and advice for men. Other actors include Patrick McKenna, Rick Green, Jeff Lumby, Wayne Robson, and Bob Bainborough.

Caution—This Canadian classic features men at our mechanical worst, and yet also has some redeeming value. Badly-dressed (and probably badly-washed) men band-aid, tape, glue, and otherwise jury-rig everything mechanical together. ("If women can’t find you handsome, they should at least find you handy!") Sometimes features mild comic violence. Red is usually trying to cut corners (accepts an unwarranted tax refund, picks up crates of nectarines that aren’t his which were abandoned after an accident, etc.) and ignore good ethics, and his geeky nephew plays the role of conscience and is proven right at the end of the show, at which Red always ends with a veiled message of love to his wife.

So while not something which will draw you closer to the Lord, this shouldn’t do much damage either. Of course, compared to most *Hollywood* fare, this is fantastic. Given that television is not usually an uplifting medium, this is probably one of the more harmless shows one could watch. I don’t feel damaged in the soul afterwards, and often have a good laugh at myself and my gender.
Tim Williams, age 33
Road to Avonlea

Road to Avonlea 1990-96 (91 episodes)

also known as “Avonlea” and “Tales from Avonlea”

A young rich girl is sent to live with relatives on Prince Edward Island in the early 1900s. This Canadian series is loosely adapted from novels by Lucy Maud Montgomery, with many of the series’ characters and episodes inspired by her stories

The series is set in the fictional small town of Avonlea, Prince Edward Island, in the early 20th century (1903–1912). Ten-year-old Montreal heiress Sara Stanley (played by Sarah Polley) is sent by her wealthy father to live with her two maiden aunts, Hetty and Olivia King, to be near her late mother’s side of the family after an embezzlement scandal results in him being placed under house arrest. The show’s focus shifted over the years from Sara’s interactions with locals to stories about the King family. Later seasons of the show focused more on residents of Avonlea who were connected to the King family.

Usually Okay—Excellent show for the whole family. Not overtly Christian, though the characters do go to church. However, it is clean, and fun. There is no profanity, no sex, etc. The closest thing we see to nudity is a little girl in petticoat and bloomers after she is pushed in the mud by her cousin. First few seasons focus on the relationships between Sara Stanley (Sarah Polley) and the other children, after Sara is sent to live on Prince Edward Island with her stern Aunt Hetty when her father gets into legal and financial trouble. As the show continues, we see the children grow up and the adults have more focus, as well as Sara’s cousin, Felicity, after Sara goes away to study. I would rate this show very highly and recommend renting the videos if it is not in your local programming.
Amy, age 22

Roswell 1999-2002 (61 episodes)

Rugrats 1991-2004 (172 episodes)

Rugrats

American animated children’s series / The show focuses on a group of babies most prominently—Tommy Pickles, Chuckie, twins Phil and Lil, and Angelica—and their day-to-day lives, usually involving life experiences that become much greater adventures in the imaginations of the main characters. The other characters depicted in Rugrats include the babies’ parents, who are portrayed as often being easily distracted, leaving their young children free to emancipate themselves from restraints such as playpens or strollers and venture out to explore.

Avoid—This cartoon uses words that anyone, much less children, should use. The oldest character calls the younger children “stupid” and “dumb”. Attitudes and behavior shown are not something I would like my children to see.
S. Norsworthy, age 33
Caution—In the past, I felt there was no harm in my children watching this program. Today, there is no problem with our 10 year old, but our 7 year old was acting like Angelica showing no respect toward others. There were only two places she learned this behavior, the T.V., or the Christian school (a good school) she attends. She watched Rugrats for years, and is not allowed to watch it anymore. She cannot differentiate between whose behavior is good and whose is not acceptable.
Craig Belmont, age 44
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