Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

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Screenwise Verdict

Let's be crystal clear: Narcos is not for kids. Period. Full stop.

This is a well-made adult crime drama about one of history's most notorious drug lords. It's violent, disturbing, and morally complex in ways that are completely inappropriate for younger viewers. The fact that it's biographical doesn't make it educational in a family-friendly sense—it's more like watching a documentary about serial killers with Hollywood production values and a lot more blood.

For adults and college-age viewers interested in true crime or modern history, it's reportedly compelling television. The 8.1 TMDB rating suggests it's well-executed. But this belongs firmly in the "after the kids are in bed" category.

If you're a parent considering this for a teen, really think hard about whether they're ready for graphic violence, complex moral ambiguity, and extensive drug content. This isn't Breaking Bad's chemistry lessons—it's straight-up cartel violence and criminal enterprise. The WISE score reflects that this simply doesn't fit the criteria for family-friendly content, even if it has some historical educational value for mature audiences.

Age Fit

This is strictly for adults 18+, or possibly mature 17-year-olds with parental guidance. The violence, drug content, and moral complexity make it completely inappropriate for children and young teens. Even older teens should be carefully considered.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

15

This is a gritty crime drama about drug cartels featuring graphic violence, drug use, morally corrupt characters, and a tone that glorifies criminal exploits. It models illegal behavior, ruthless violence, and features characters who are murderers and drug lords. Not emotionally healthy for younger viewers and lacks prosocial modeling.

Imaginative

55

As a biographical crime drama, it offers some historical context and explores the real-world complexities of the drug trade in Colombia. The storytelling is reportedly well-crafted (8.1 TMDB rating), but it's not particularly imaginative in the sense of sparking creativity or exploration—it's a docudrama retelling of historical events with dramatic license.

Safe

5

Extremely unsafe for children. This is an adult crime drama featuring graphic violence, murder, drug use, likely sexual content, and disturbing themes throughout. The entire premise revolves around violent drug cartels, executions, and criminal activity. No content rating is listed but this is clearly TV-MA territory. Kids mode being available on the platform doesn't make the show itself safe.

Enriching

45

For mature audiences, there's educational value in understanding the history of the Colombian drug trade and its geopolitical impact. It can spark discussions about crime, justice, corruption, and international relations. However, the entertainment value leans heavily on violence and criminal activity rather than meaningful ethical growth. Limited enrichment for younger viewers.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Well-crafted historical drama that educates about a significant period in Colombian and drug war history
High production values and compelling storytelling (8.1 TMDB rating suggests quality)
For college-age viewers and adults, can spark important conversations about crime, justice, and international policy
Bilingual presentation (Spanish/English) offers some cultural authenticity

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What to Watch For

Graphic violence including murders, torture, and executions throughout
Extensive drug use and glorification of cartel lifestyle
Sexual content and nudity
Morally complex characters who are fundamentally criminals and murderers
This is emphatically NOT for anyone under 17—don't let the biographical label fool you into thinking it's educational in a family-friendly way

Conversation Starters

"What do you think drives people to make choices that harm so many others for personal gain?"
"How did the war on drugs shape relationships between countries?"
"Why do you think some people romanticize criminals like Pablo Escobar?"
"What are the long-term consequences of the drug trade on communities?"

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