Enjoy Eshaan M.'s review of PBS SoCal’s new disaster-preparedness production What a Disaster!
7Enjoy Eshaan M.'s review of PBS SoCal’s new disaster-preparedness production What a Disaster!
What A Disaster! is an enjoyable family watch, after which you’ll be prepared for any disaster that might come your way. The unique format, engaging challenges and crucial message all make this an amazing movie to watch over Thanksgiving!
What A Disaster! is a game-show style program hosted by Jay Jackson, centering around three Southern-Californian families (The Yang family, the Smith family and the Luna family) competing to be crowned the most prepared for any natural disaster that may come their way. They’re also competing to receive $1,000. The families are led through a series of challenges that include knowing where your utilities are and what to pack if you’re running out of a burning building.
As this is a PBS production, the 40 minute film is stitched together quite well. The contestants are spontaneous and bring life to the film, especially the little kids! I also enjoyed Jay Jackson’s bubbly hosting. He looks upon these families as his neighbors, and the care he has is evident. There are some points where the contestants’ voices seem to echo or reverb, though. It is also a bit obvious that the judges are reading from a script, as their eye line is off-center. But overall, the production value does not drag What A Disaster! down.
As its title would give away, the film promotes disaster preparedness and staying safe in any situation. Also, this film endorses messages of sticking together, especially with family, and teamwork. This is an especially important message for 2020, given the wildfires that SoCal has suffered, and I’m super glad that PBS produced this program.
I give What A Disaster! 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 7 to 18. Adults would enjoy this film as well. What A Disaster! premieres in Southern California this Thanksgiving on Thurs., Nov. 26 at 7 p.m. on PBS SoCal and encores on Sat., Nov. 28 at 8 p.m. on KCET.
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