Common Sense Note

Parents need to know that this dramatic and mature series -- which features the residents of the Treme neighborhood in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina -- includes potentially disturbing scenes of the storm's aftermath, including flood damage and military patrols. The HBO series contains lots of profanity ("ass," "damn," "bitch," "p---y," "s--t," "f--k"), and the N -word is occasionally audible. Expect occasional nudity (bare buttocks, breasts) and frequent consumption of wine, Budweiser beer, and hard liquor. There's also lots of cigarette, cigar, and pot smoking.

Sexual Content

Contains some strong sexual innuendo. People are shown getting in and out of bed and in their underwear. Nudity (breasts and back sides) is occasionally visible.

Violence

New Orleans police officers and military personnel are shown patrolling the city streets on foot; police helicopters are frequently heard at night as they protect the city. Scenes of the devastation left behind by Hurricane Katrina are frequent. There are discussions about escaped prisoners. As the series continues, look for occasional fighting and possible injuries.

Language

Words like "ass," "damn," "bitch," "p---y," "s--t," "f--k" are frequently audible. The N-word is occasionally heard, especially in contemporary song lyrics. Rude gestures are also visible.

Social Behavior

The series highlights how the strong and historically important music culture of New Orleans attempts to revive itself in a post-Katrina world. It also offers strong points of view about who is responsible for the city's devastation and slow recovery process. It also shows lifestyles that involve frequent alcohol, cigarette, and sometimes drug use.

Consumerism

Budweiser beer labels, and occasional Apple computers visible. Musicians like Elvis Costello make cameo appearances.

Drugs / Tobacco / Alcohol

Consumption of wine, beer, and hard liquor is frequently visible. Cigarette and cigar smoking also visible. People are occasionally shown smoking joints.