How NBC's 'The Slap' Challenges Viewers' Core Values

By
This video is unavailable because we were unable to load a message from our sponsors.

If you are using ad-blocking software, please disable it and reload the page.

The stars of The Slap chatted with ET on Monday about how the controversial NBC show is starting an important conversation among TV viewers.

PHOTO: Does Uma Thurman Look Unrecognizable?

The miniseries, based on the book by Christos Tsiolkas and the Australian TV series of the same name, is a family drama that centers on a man who slaps another couple's child for misbehaving. When the couple's parents threaten legal action, the chain of events that follows uncovers long-buried secrets within the group of friends and family, and challenges the core values of everyone involved. The show features an all-star cast, which includes Peter Sarsgaard, Thandie Newton, Zachary Quinto, Uma Thurman, Brian Cox and Melissa George.

"I'm extremely non-violent," Thurman told ET at the New York premiere. "I don't see why anyone would think violence would be an effective way to treat a human being with a complex brain."

It's Quinto's character that delivers the slap that starts it all, and he explained the character's rationale.

"He believes he was protecting his son," he said. "He believes that he was protecting his honor."

NEWS: Eminem Praises Ray Rice with Violent Lyric

George pointed out that the incident raises many important questions about deep-rooted beliefs concerning child-rearing.

"I think something as prevalent as slapping someone else's kid can bring about a lot of issues -- the way you are raised, parenting," she said. "All sorts of things are coming out."

Child development and behavior specialist Betsy Brown Braun also weighed in on the topic.

NEWS: NFL Will Air Domestic Violence PSA During the Super Bowl

"In my world, it's never appropriate to hit a child, yours or anyone else's," Braun told ET.

The Slap premieres Thursday, Feb. 12 at 8 p.m. ET/PT on NBC.

Related Gallery