The Life of a Real Bug (TV-PG)
The fun nature docuseries comes with a little bug risk.
“A Real Bug’s Life” is a nature documentary narrated by Awkwafina. While it’s not too disgusting, it does feature scenes of bug hunting and eating. Much of the danger of insects is emphasized through narration, eerie music, and dramatic tension. Brief insinuations of bugs include mentions of “reproduction”, but nothing is shown on screen. Otherwise, it’s a fun and educational look at the lives of some of Earth’s smallest creatures. (Five episodes)
Available on Disney Plus.
American Girl: Corinne Tan (TV-G)
Upbeat doll-inspired tale about girls growing up; a certain danger.
“American Girl: Corinne Tan,” based on the popular American Girl dolls, is the story of children who need both family love and individual purpose. There are some potentially scary moments when little sister Gwynn (Kai Cech) gets lost in the snow at night and a search party is sent to find her. The characters discuss dogs searching for people and objects in avalanches. The main character Corinne (Miya Cech), unlike her sister, has not really accepted her parents’ divorce and the new blended family, and she feels like she has not found her “true calling”. The film suggests that young girls and teenagers are capable of many things and learn responsibility when given opportunity and support from parents and other loving and caring adults. The girls, who are Chinese-American, are inspired by Asian American celebrities and professional athletes, and aspects of their backgrounds are part of their daily lives. (61 minutes)
The TV prequel contains swearing, drinking, innuendo, and family.
“Ted,” a comedy TV series about a living teddy bear, serves as a prequel to the popular film of the same name — and it has much of the same irreverent humor, although a bit toned down. Characters swear, drink, sell, and smoke marijuana. There’s also a lot of strong innuendo, as well as high school crushes and crude references to sexual acts. People use bigoted language, family members say, and there is harassment among children and adults. That said, family, friendship and loyalty are key themes. Seth MacFarlane reprises the character of Ted. (Seven episodes, ranging from 33 to 50 minutes)
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