Common Sense Media Review
By Juan Rodriguez Aguilar
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Two friends explore with mythical creatures; light peril.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Listen
Parent and Kid Reviews
What’s It About?
THE WEIRDNESS follows two middle schoolers, Arlo and Sierra, who set off on a perilous adventure across the globe to discover why mythical creatures are disappearing. Early in the show, the kids befriend Beef, a friendly version of Bigfoot, who helps them on their journey as they discover other historical creatures like the Loch Ness monster, the yeti, and more. Episodes usually center around the geographical location each creature inhabits -- whether it's Ireland, Mexico, or under the sea -- all of which helps the kids get a little bit closer to discovering the true identity of the Creep (a mysterious dark force bent on stopping them). The podcast is told in a linear sequence of events, where the kids act out the scenes like a radio play with '80s-inspired synth pop music playing in the background.
Is It Any Good?
Nancy Drew fans are sure to love this fun and sometimes funny podcast. The two main characters in The Weirdness are amateur teens trying to solve a mystery, working together while succeeding and failing along the way. Arlo and Sierra are good friends who are sometimes driven by impulse, showing their flaws in the process, making it easy for older kid, tween, and teen listeners to relate. The stories themselves leave something to be desired, as they lack some substance. Sometimes, the plots feel a little disjointed in coming up with clever ways to tie in the mythical creatures they present. Most of the creatures are also presented as silly buffoons with human traits, making them less interesting. There's the occasional inaccuracy when it comes to referencing the origins of the mythical creatures based on cultural folklore. For example, in one episode they mention the chupacabra as having originated in Mexico, but reported first sightings happened in Puerto Rico. The show is meant to entertain above all else. Still, the story unfolds into a satisfying whole despite its shortcomings. What it lacks in storylines, it makes up for with its '80s-inspired music.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the many mythical creatures featured on The Weirdness. Can you research where the folklore about these creatures comes from? Why are these creatures and beliefs important to certain cultures?
How do Arlo and Sierra work together to solve problems? What makes their friendship strong? Why is teamwork an important character strength?
Conspiracy theorists have tried to explain how mythical creatures actually exist. What is the difference between an assumption and a fact, and why is doing research before believing anything you hear important?
Episodes usually mix in humor with scary situations. How does humor help the characters face difficult situations? Can you use humor to get through some difficult situations in your life?
Podcast Details
- Release date: July 7, 2020
- Genre: Storytelling
- Average Run Time: 15 minutes
- Website: https://gzmshows.com/shows/listing/the-weirdness/
- Production Company and Network: Gen-Z Media
- Pricing structure: Free
- Topics: Middle School , Monsters, Ghosts, and Vampires , Ocean Creatures
- Character Strengths: Communication , Curiosity , Teamwork
- Last updated: January 11, 2024
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