Masters of the Air

What’s it about?

The historical miniseries, set during World War II, follows the United States Air Force 100th Bomb Group which was instrumental in the war against the Germans. The show focuses on a brave group of pilots and airmen as they deal with challenges in the air and on the ground.

The facts

• Created by John Shiban and John Orloff
• Stars Austin Butler (Elvis 2022)
• English language
• Runtime: Nine episodes, ~60 minutes each
• The series is based on the book Masters of the Air by Donald L. Miller
• Masters of the Air is a companion piece to two other WWII shows made by the same producers- Band of Brothers 2001 and Pacific 2010.

Why did it get this rating?

This series was self-rated by Apple TV+. You can find out more about self-rating by streaming providers here.

Violence, Cruelty and Content that may disturb

Realistic and sometimes graphic violence is shown in the context of air combat during WWII. Violence includes bombing, explosions, aircraft crashes and gun violence. There are, at times, graphic injuries and deaths, including gruesome, but brief, facial injuries and loss of limbs.

Violence on the ground is generally limited to characters being threatened and shot. A group of American prisoners of war (PoWs) are attacked by a mob of angry German civilians in Episode 6. One prisoner has his throat cut and others are shot by a German soldier.

There is a disturbing scene in Episode 9 where a character briefly explores a deserted concentration camp that contains masses of abandoned dead bodies.

Offensive language

There is regular use of coarse and offensive language including, “sh*t”, “b*tch” and “f*ck”.

Sex scenes

The episodes contain occasional sexual references and innuendo as characters banter with each other. Couples are shown kissing intimately and sex is briefly implied by positioning and movements in Episodes 4 and 7.

Further information

• Why are ratings and content warnings important for me and my whānau? - Blog
• Can children watch a movie about war horrors? - Blog