Written by: Samantha Hass
I’m a huge animation fan, and I’m constantly on the lookout for interesting new content to watch. Recently, I was recommended Common Side Effects, an Adult Swim animated series that centers around a mushroom that can heal any illness. The show hooked me instantly and had me excited to see what would come next not only for the story itself but for adult animation as a whole.
Common Side Effects, created by Joseph Bennett and Steve Hely, follows Marshall Cuso, a fungi expert who opposes the unethical practices of the medical industry. Prior to the events of the show, Marshall discovers a rare mushroom and keeps it in his possession. In the first episode, he reconnects with his old lab partner from high school, Frances Applewhite. Marshall’s nostalgia for their past relationship leads him to tell her about the mushroom; he reveals his secrets, unaware that she is the assistant of the chief executive officer of a prominent pharmaceutical company. She quickly recognizes the potential of the mushroom and plans to obtain it for her boss. Plot lines converge once the Drug Enforcement Administration gets involved and agents Copano and Harrington are tasked with pursuing Marshall. These characters are fun to watch not only because of their compelling backstories but because of their goofy demeanors as well. For example, Copano and Harrington have a running visual gag where they dance to music in their car while having serious conversations.
Right from the beginning, the show is refreshingly unique in its subject matter and in its presentation. I have never seen a concept like this executed in an animated series; the show’s focus on criticizing modern healthcare practices is both relevant and fascinating. Additionally, the fantastical elements of the narrative make for an existential viewing experience. Without a doubt, anyone would be questioning the meaning of life and death after seeing the mushroom’s abilities. Its powers extend beyond what humanity deems possible, leading to sequences that are animated in an astounding and surreal fashion. That’s another thing that makes the show stand out: the animation. The series employs a simplistic, cartoonish art style that works exceptionally well with the choppy frame rate and psychedelic imagery. These elements come together to create unforgettable visuals.
Common Side Effects is a breath of fresh air in the sphere of adult animated content. Other shows in this demographic, such as Family Guy or the Simpsons, are predominantly humor-focused and boast a more episodic structure. Common Side Effects, in contrast, sets up a complex, emotional story that does not shy away from opening the floor to heavy topics. In my opinion, we need more animated content like this. I’m looking forward to continuing this show, and I am excited to see how it will inspire other animated stories in the future.
Featured Image Caption: Common Side Effects criticizes modern pharmaceutical practices