Science + friendship = formula for fun; insults, harassment.
“Popular Theory” is a family comedy about two kids who discover the chemistry behind popularity. Bridging the gap between STEM subjects and interpersonal relationships, it promotes science and friendship and uses humor to convey the importance of social science for children of all ages. Main characters/young scientific geniuses Erwin (Sophia Reid-Gantzert) and Winston (Lincoln Lambert) spout theorems, names of famous physicists, and molecular references – some of which may get kids wondering about pheromones and their connection with attraction. The story applies it primarily to popularity, but in one scene, romantic attraction is implied: a 16-year-old girl is pursued by a crowd of attracted teenagers and adults, including a woman who is licks your lips in the direction of the girl (it’s done). for fun). There’s also a memorable kiss, a few mildly suggestive gestures and comments, and some bullying, but overall the questionable content is minimal. Language is limited to insults like “idiot” and “nerd.” The effects of gum at the film’s popularity could be seen as having parallels with recreational drug use: parents may take the opportunity to start a conversation about the risks of consuming a substance that artificially creates a temporary boost of well-being. (88 minutes)
Masters of the Universe: Revolution (TV-PG)
The action-packed fantasy series continues; lots of fighting.
“Masters of the Universe: Revelation” is the second part of Netflix’s sequel to the popular animated fantasy series that rose to fame in the 1980s. This show picks up where “Masters of the Universe: Revelation” left off. is stopped, with He-Man (voiced by Chris Wood), Teela (Melissa Benoist) and more fighting to protect Eternia from dark forces and evil villains. There’s plenty of violent action and dynamic combat, including fights between human, magical, and animal creatures. Combat also includes hand-to-hand combat, weapons and sorcery. The language mainly consists of name calling and crude comments like “shut up.” The messages focus on teamwork and the importance of using your power to defeat evil. (Five episodes of approximately 26 minutes each.)
A funny and inventive animated show highlights creative thinking.
“Lyla in the loop” is a funny and inventive animated series about Lyla (voiced by Liyou Abere), a 7-year-old Black girl who lives with her parents, older twin sisters, and younger brother in a diverse community. She is the middle child in her close-knit family and loves finding solutions to problems. The show’s curriculum emphasizes STEM skills, creative problem solving, and critical thinking. The upbeat, quirky nature of the show, coupled with its introduction to basic coding and multi-step problem-solving skills (and very little questionable content), makes it an enjoyable watch for kids in kindergarten through early of primary school. (Four episodes of 25 minutes each.)
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