The Artful Dodger
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Screen for YOUR familyParent's Guide to The Artful Dodger
Set in 1850s Australia, "The Artful Dodger (2023)" is an eight-episode historical heist drama that serves as an irreverent sequel to Charles Dickens' "Oliver Twist." The series follows Jack Dawkins, formerly the notorious Artful Dodger, who has reinvented himself as a respected surgeon in the vibrant colony of Port Victory. His new life is upended by the unexpected arrival of his old mentor, Fagin, which pulls him back into a world of crime and subterfuge. Concurrently, Jack navigates a complex romantic relationship with Lady Belle Fox, the ambitious daughter of the Governor, who aspires to become the colony's first female surgeon. The show blends elements of crime, medical drama, and romance, featuring a fast-paced narrative, witty dialogue, and a dark comedic tone. It explores themes of reinvention, betrayal, redemption, and societal expectations, making it suitable for mature teen and adult audiences due to its intense content.
Things to Consider
Violence
The series features frequent and graphic depictions of violence, particularly in its medical scenes, which are set in the primitive surgical conditions of 1850s Australia. Beyond medical gore, there are also various forms of street violence and threats.
The surgical scenes are often described as graphic and bloody, showing blood spurting and gushing, with primitive tools and unsanitized conditions. Threats involving the severing of limbs are also made against characters. Additionally, the show includes bar brawls, sword fights, and depictions of hangings. In Episode 5, 'The Duel,' Sneed and Dodger engage in a duel where bullets are exchanged, resulting in Sneed sustaining a leg wound.
Scary & Intense Content
The series contains significant scary and intense content, largely stemming from its graphic medical procedures, life-or-death situations, and the constant threat of the criminal underworld and law enforcement.
Disrespect & Rebellion
Disrespect and rebellion are central themes, as the protagonist, Jack Dawkins, is a former criminal continually drawn back into unlawful activities. He and other characters frequently defy societal norms, laws, and authority figures through their actions and attitudes.
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Additional Context
Best For Ages
TV-14. This recommendation is justified due to the series containing graphic surgical violence, mature thematic elements including crime and betrayal, sexual innuendo, occasional strong language, and frequent depictions of substance use. While some mature teenagers may appreciate the historical setting and complex characters, the intensity and frequency of these concerns make it unsuitable for younger children.
Good to Know
The series is a sequel to Charles Dickens' 'Oliver Twist' and assumes some familiarity with the original story, though it functions as a standalone narrative. Its period setting in 1850s Australia adds a unique flavor to the crime and medical drama genres. Season 2 has been renewed, indicating continued storylines and potential for evolving concerns, including a 'killer on the loose' and a love triangle which may intensify existing themes.
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