SkimIt
Network: ABC
Genre: Reality TV
TV Rating: TV-14
Other Choices: Dancing with the Stars, The Amazing Race, The X Factor
Available On: Online
Common Sense Says: Big Brother-like show has lots of iffy behavior.
Common Sense Rates It:
Parents need to know
Parents need to know that The Glass House is a Big Brother-type reality show that features lots of iffy behavior, including drinking, partying, catty behavior, salty vocab ("pissed" and "bitch" are audible, "s--t" and "f--k" bleeped), and sexual discussions. Twitter is prominently featured throughout the show, which will no doubt make it appealing to teens, but it isn't a great viewing choice for younger viewers.
- Families can talk about the appeal of reality shows. Why do you think people agree to place themselves in situations where their every move is being watched? Is it the money? Ten seconds of fame?
- Is the contestants' desire to drink too much, party, have sex, and act inappropriately the main reason why people think these shows are entertaining? Are there any positive messages these shows can offer viewers?
What's the story?
In THE GLASS HOUSE, 14 contestants live in a house made completely of glass. From wild bail bondsmen and Playboy models to conservative Mormon moms, the competitors live it up in the state-of-the-art house that's completely wired for online access. As they interact with each other and compete in various challenges, viewers get to vote on things ranging from group activities to which players will be eliminated. Online webisodes and live feeds are also available for viewers to tune in. The last person left in the house wins $250,000.
Is it any good?
The Glass House, which has stirred up some controversy thanks to its similarity to the highly successful Big Brother reality franchise, features the expected drinking, drama, and crazy behavior that reality shows are known for. While some folks seem to show their real personalities while on camera, others seem to play to the suggestions made by viewing audiences.Despite its attempt to offer a uniquely appealing viewing experience by making it as interactive as possible, the show really doesn't offer anything different beyond what's been shown before. Audiences who like this sort of voyeuristic entertainment will probably find it entertaining enough, but it's not a great choice for younger viewers.
The Good Stuff
Messages: The Glass House highlights the different tactics people take to win a reality show competition, including creating alliances, lying, showing off their bodies, etc.
Role Models: Some contestants exhibit sneaky behaviors, while others appear to be more respectful. Contestants are from all walks of life.
What to watch out for
Violence Cat fights are frequent; arguments sometimes lead to screaming matches between contestants.
Sex: Lots of suggestive behavior and conversations, including references to having sex. Party games include kissing and other risqué behaviors. Women are often shown in string bikinis; contestants sometimes walk around in their underwear (or others' underwear). One contestant is a nude model and is sometimes insulted for it.
Language: Words like "pissed" and "bitch" are audible; curses like "s--t" and "f--k" are bleeped, with mouths blurred.
Consumerism: Not an issue
Drinking, drugs & smoking: Frequent drinking (hard alcohol, wine).
