Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

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Screenwise Verdict

This is the Teen Titans show that millennials and Gen Z remember fondly—and for good reason. It respected its audience enough to go deep on character development and didn't shy away from real emotional stakes.

The animation style (that anime-influenced look with exaggerated expressions) still holds up surprisingly well, and the voice acting is legitimately great. The show knew when to be silly (Beast Boy and Cyborg's ridiculous competitions) and when to get serious (basically any Raven or Slade episode).

Yes, it's over 20 years old, but unlike a lot of early 2000s cartoons, it doesn't feel painfully dated. The themes are timeless, the humor isn't cringe, and the action sequences still work. Kids today who are into superheroes will likely dig it, especially if they're already fans of anime-style shows.

The main caveat: some episodes get genuinely dark. When Raven's dealing with her demon dad Trigon, or when Slade is psychologically tormenting Robin, it's not light viewing. But that emotional weight is also what makes the show memorable and meaningful.

Age Fit

Best for kids 7-14 who can handle superhero action and some emotional complexity. The darker story arcs and psychological elements make it too intense for most kids under 7, while teens and adults appreciate the nostalgia and genuine character work that elevates it above typical kids' fare.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

78

Models strong teamwork and friendship among diverse heroes. The show balances humor with genuine emotional moments about belonging and identity. Characters support each other through challenges, though some episodes deal with heavier themes like loneliness and rejection. The tone is generally upbeat with good pacing, though it can get intense during villain confrontations.

Imaginative

85

Blends superhero action with anime-influenced visual storytelling and creative character designs. Each Titan has unique powers that are used inventively. The show takes creative risks with its format—mixing serious story arcs with comedic episodes, experimenting with visual styles, and exploring character backstories in imaginative ways. Villains are colorful and varied, from interdimensional demons to quirky tech geniuses.

Safe

72

Action violence is stylized and cartoonish without gore or graphic content. Some episodes deal with darker themes (Raven's demonic heritage, Slade's psychological manipulation of Robin, Terra's betrayal) that could be intense for younger viewers but aren't gratuitous. No sexual content or inappropriate language. Common Sense Media rates it for age 7, which aligns with the superhero action level. The emotional intensity of certain story arcs (particularly Raven-focused episodes) may be unsettling for sensitive kids.

Enriching

76

Explores themes of identity, belonging, responsibility, and what it means to be a hero beyond just fighting villains. Characters face moral dilemmas and consequences for their choices. Raven's struggle with her dark side, Beast Boy's insecurity about being taken seriously, Starfire's fish-out-of-water experience, and Robin's obsession with justice all provide meaningful character development. The show doesn't talk down to its audience and trusts kids to handle complex emotions and situations.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Genuinely funny without being annoying—the humor lands for both kids and adults watching along
Each character gets real development and backstory, not just 'the strong one' or 'the smart one' labels
Tackles surprisingly mature themes (identity crisis, manipulation, betrayal) without being preachy or dumbed down
The anime-influenced animation style gives it visual flair that distinguishes it from typical American superhero cartoons
Strong messages about friendship, accepting yourself (especially your darker parts), and teamwork under pressure

⚠

What to Watch For

Some episodes get emotionally heavy—Raven's demon father storyline and Terra's betrayal arc can hit hard for sensitive kids
Slade (the main villain) can be genuinely menacing and psychologically manipulative, especially toward Robin
The tonal shifts between goofy comedy episodes and serious dramatic arcs might confuse younger viewers
A few episodes deal with themes of death, loss, and existential dread (Raven-centric ones especially)

Conversation Starters

"Which Titan do you relate to most and why? What's their biggest struggle?"
"Robin gets obsessed with catching Slade—have you ever wanted something so badly it made you act differently?"
"Raven has to deal with a 'dark side' she inherited. Do you think everyone has parts of themselves they're scared of?"
"Terra betrays the team but then tries to make it right. Can someone make a huge mistake and still be a good person?"
"The Titans are all really different but work together. What makes a good team when everyone has different strengths?"

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