The Bad Batch – WISE Score & Parent Review | Screenwise

The Bad Batch

Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

show2021

73%

WISE Score

Avg. Tomatometer

Elite clone commandos go rogue in this Star Wars animated series—think A-Team meets Order 66, with blasters and found family feels.

7.8/10

88%

8.2

→

The Bad Batch

show

TV-PG, 2021

73%

WISE Score

Avg. Tomatometer

Elite clone commandos go rogue in this Star Wars animated series—think A-Team meets Order 66, with blasters and found family feels.

7.8

88%

8.2

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7.8/10

88%

8.2

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Screenwise Verdict

The Bad Batch is solid Star Wars fare for kids who've already bought into the galaxy far, far away. It's got the action, the lore, the found-family feels, and some genuinely thoughtful themes about identity and resisting tyranny. The squad's dynamic is compelling, and Omega gives the show heart beyond the blaster fights.

That said, this isn't a gentle entry point to Star Wars. It's a war show with constant combat, on-screen (bloodless) deaths, and the emotional weight of the Empire's rise. If your kid loved Clone Wars or Rebels, they'll be fine. If they're new to Star Wars or sensitive to action-violence, start with something lighter.

The TMDB rating of 8.2 suggests fans are happy, and the show does deliver on entertainment and enrichment. Just know what you're signing up for: this is Star Wars for kids who are ready for the darker, more complex corners of the saga.

Age Fit

Best for ages 8-14, especially kids already into Star Wars who can handle consistent action-violence and heavier themes about war, identity, and authoritarianism. Younger fans of Rebels or Clone Wars will likely dig it; total newbies or sensitive kids under 10 may find it too intense.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

Star Wars: The Bad Batch centers on a found family of clone troopers navigating loyalty, identity, and moral choices post-Clone Wars. The show models teamwork and cooperation among the squad, though the military/combat setting means emotional tone skews serious. Pacing is generally balanced for animated action, with character development woven through missions. The clones demonstrate care for each other and for Omega, a young female clone they protect. Some episodes deal with heavier themes like war trauma, betrayal, and the rise of the Empire, which can be emotionally complex but not gratuitous.

Imaginative

As a Star Wars property, The Bad Batch delivers strong world-building across diverse planets and scenarios in the immediate aftermath of the Clone Wars—an era rarely explored in animation. The squad's unique genetic modifications (enhanced strength, tech skills, sharpshooting, etc.) invite creative problem-solving in missions. The show expands Clone Wars lore and introduces new characters and locations. However, it's more mission-driven action than open-ended creative exploration; kids won't be building or creating within the show itself, but it can inspire imaginative play with Star Wars toys/games.

Safe

The Bad Batch is a Star Wars action show with consistent blaster combat, explosions, and military conflict—clone troopers and other characters are shot and sometimes killed on-screen (though bloodless, as is Star Wars style). There's no gore, nudity, or sexual content. Some episodes feature intense sequences: Order 66 flashbacks, characters in peril, and the emotional weight of the Empire's rise. A kids mode is available on Disney+, suggesting some parental awareness is expected. For families already comfortable with Clone Wars or Rebels, this fits the pattern; for younger or more sensitive kids, the relentless combat and darker Imperial themes may be too much without context.

Enriching

The Bad Batch offers meaningful themes around identity (clones questioning their purpose post-war), loyalty vs. orders, and resisting authoritarianism as the Empire consolidates power. The squad's protection of Omega introduces discussions about family, responsibility, and doing the right thing even when it's hard. The show builds empathy for clone troopers as individuals, not just soldiers. It's entertaining with strong action sequences and Star Wars fan service, plus a TMDB rating of 8.2 suggests solid audience engagement. However, it's primarily plot-driven adventure rather than deeply introspective or skill-building content.

Parent Info

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Why It Might Be Great

Explores identity and purpose as clones navigate life after their war ends and the Empire rises—real talk about what happens when your 'programming' conflicts with your values
Strong found-family dynamics with the squad protecting Omega, a kid clone who's learning about the galaxy (and giving them something to care about beyond missions)
Expands Star Wars lore in the Clone Wars-to-Rebels gap with new planets, characters, and political intrigue that fans love
Action-packed missions with creative problem-solving using each clone's unique skills (tech genius, super strength, sharpshooter, etc.)
Themes of resisting authoritarianism and choosing loyalty to people over orders are surprisingly relevant and discussion-worthy

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What to Watch For

Constant blaster combat with on-screen (bloodless) character deaths—this is a war show, even if it's animated
Darker tone than many kids' shows: the Empire's rise, clone decommissioning, and moral ambiguity can be heavy for younger or sensitive viewers
Requires some Star Wars context to fully appreciate—kids unfamiliar with the Clone Wars or the franchise may feel lost
Episodes can be intense with characters in genuine peril; not a lighthearted Saturday morning vibe

Conversation Starters

"The clones were literally created to be soldiers—what do you think they should do now that the war is over?"
"Hunter and the squad disobey orders to protect Omega. When is it okay to break rules you think are wrong?"
"How do you think it feels to be a clone—looking just like thousands of other people but trying to figure out who YOU are?"
"The Empire tells people they're bringing 'order' and 'safety.' How can you tell when a government is actually helping vs. controlling people?"

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