From the Editors of Common Sense Media

August 16, 2007

Friday, the jump-for-joy picture of high school life continues with Disney's eagerly awaited premiere of High School Musical 2. But another popular series, The N's Degrassi: The Next Generation, offers a different perspective.

Far grittier than the candy-colored world of High School Musical, Degrassi examines issues that are much closer to the situations that most real teens face these days. Drug use, sex, social problems, and more are all portrayed realistically -- not in the over-the-top, sensational way that shows like The O.C. and the forthcoming TV series of the Gossip Girl books would treat them. On Degrassi, actions have consequences and alternatives to iffy behavior are debated and shown. Obviously, it's edgy -- it does depict teen sex and substance abuse -- but it tries to be responsible in presenting the dilemmas that really face high school students. If you're intrigued but cautious, preview some episodes or watch with your kids.

Families who do watch will find plenty to talk about. What sets Degrassi apart from other teen shows. Does the fact that the teens look like regular teens make it more realistic? How does Degrassi life compare to life in other teen-oriented TV shows and movies? Finally, because Degrassi shows the consequences of drinking, sex, and social dynamics, it offers a safe way to get into difficult discussions about teens' daily lives and the pressures they face.

Yes, we love the High School Musical world, but we also know that our kids probably aren't going to go to school and dance on the tables. For the times when depression or drug use leaves real-life kids without a song in their hearts, Degrassi can offer a way to sort through thorny problems in a realistic but responsible way.

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