Common Sense Note

Parents need to know that this sci-fi show -- which began its life as a popular Web series -- assumes that monsters are very real and that they need to be tracked down and captured. That process often entails a fair bit of suspense and violence (often involving weapons and occasionally deadly), which could unsettle young viewers -- as could the sometimes-creepy monsters themselves. But on the whole, the series is on the tame side for older tweens and up: There's hardly anything in the way of sexual content, salty language, or drinking and drugs.

Sexual Content

No nudity or sex, though there is some flirting between Will and Ashley.

Violence

Some of the abnormals are benign, but many are quite dangerous, and their attacks can be violent, deadly, and gory. Though the Sanctuary staff has no desire to hurt these creatures, they're often forced to subdue their quarry using stun-guns or darts with sleep-inducing drugs. Ashley is often heavily armed; she's quick with both lethal and non-lethal weapons and sometimes engages in martial arts combat.

Language

Not applicable

Social Behavior

The Sanctuary is a mysterious organization that exists outside standard law enforcement channels, and though Dr. Zimmerman sometimes crosses paths with his former colleagues on the police force, he must keep his true activities and motives secret. The team sometimes deals with black market weapons brokers. The most dangerous creatures are locked up deep within the Sanctuary; some are willing to stay there for their own protection, while others pose a danger to society and are held against their will.

Consumerism

Job-recruiting Web site Monster.com is mentioned.

Drugs / Tobacco / Alcohol

Not applicable