Violence in cartel money laundering and horse racing story.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 14+?
Any Positive Content?
Violence & Scariness
a lot
The docuseries features live footage and audio of shoot-outs between law enforcement and drug cartels, with frequent depictions of assault weapons used by military officers and cartel members. The series describes extreme violence, including strangulations, stabbings, and beatings, and shows disturbing images of car bombs and the emotional toll on those living in constant fear. It covers the assassination of a police chief by Los Zetas on his first day and includes stories of extremely disturbing murders carried out by some cartel members.
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The docuseries centers around the activities of a Mexican cocaine drug cartel and highlights the U.S.-Mexico border as the epicenter of the drug war. It describes the power struggles between rival cartels over the past 40 years and the details of their operations.
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The series delves into the world of the quarter horse industry and circuit, providing historical context and insight into the details of horse auctions and races. It also offers an educational overview of the history of U.S. dealings with Mexican drug cartels and how government agencies like ICE and the FBI operate in border towns. Additionally, it discusses the changing relationship between the sister communities of Laredo, Texas, and Nuevo Laredo, Mexico, and the development of the Los Zetas cartel.
Positive Role Models
a little
FBI agents, especially Scott Lawson, display courage and perseverance in their attempt to take down Mexico's most dangerous drug cartel.
Diverse Representations
a little
Mainly focuses on a White FBI agent and Mexican cartel members. Mexican individuals in both law enforcement and high up in the legitimate quarter horse racing industry are also mentioned.
As a series detailing the takedown of Mexico's most dangerous and deadly cocaine cartel, there are no positive messages.
Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that Cowboy Cartel is a docuseries that includes discussions of the quarter horse industry's history of scandals, such as doping, illegal gambling, and race-fixing as well as the operations of Mexican cocaine cartels. Expect portrayals of significant violence, including live footage and audio of shoot-outs and graphic descriptions of extremely disturbing murders committed by drug cartel members.
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What's the Story?
COWBOY CARTEL is a docuseries that explores how the violent Mexican drug cartel, Los Zetas, used the U.S. quarter horse racing industry to launder money. It follows the investigation and eventual takedown of the cartel, as well as the violence that ensued as law enforcement worked to stop it.
This docuseries is a riveting and educational deep dive into the intersection of the U.S. quarter horse racing industry and Mexican drug cartels. Cowboy Cartel's blend of personal stories, historical context, and dramatic real-life events makes it a compelling watch for those interested in true crime and the complexities of the drug war. The series focuses on Scott Lawson, a relatable and gentle FBI agent who played a crucial role in the operation against Los Zetas. His journey from a rookie fresh out of Quantico to a pivotal figure in the case provides a cohesive and compelling narrative; the incorporation of the U.S. quarter horse industry adds a unique twist. The series excels in creating intrigue with clear organization, compelling interviews, a fast pace, and visual storytelling. Occasional humorous moments recounted from undercover agents also add to its appeal.
Point out the courage and perseverance demonstrated by the FBI agents in the series. Why are these important character strengths in life?
Talk about the cultural connections and differences between the sister cities of Laredo and Nuevo Laredo. How have these relationships evolved over time? Explore the broader implications of the drug war on both sides of the U.S.-Mexico border. What are the social and economic effects on the communities involved?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by
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Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
By Stephanie Morgan
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
