The enigma surrounding Common Side Effects has persisted since its initial announcement. The series was touted for having some of the brightest minds in television production, and a visual style distinct from other shows airing on Adult Swim. Interestingly enough, this made it an ideal fit for Adult Swim, as the adult animation block has long been a haven for unconventional animated projects with unique narratives. Common Side Effects, in particular, is one of the most daring attempts in this category thus far, striving to achieve its intended goals.
Common Side Effects offers a distinctly unique viewing experience compared to what many Adult Swim aficionados may anticipate. It’s characterized by a hushed atmosphere and humor derived from subtle moments. This series delves into the intricacies of a vast pharmaceutical conspiracy, featuring numerous parties and layers that unfold with each episode, hinting at a larger mystery that will captivate you week after week. It’s a show that will gradually capture your attention without you realizing it.
The series “Common Side Effects” was developed by Joe Bennett (“Scavengers Reign”) and Steve Hely (“Veep,” “American Dad!”), with Mike Judge (“King of the Hill,” “Beavis and Butt-head”) and Greg Daniels (“The Office,” “Parks and Recreation”) serving as executive producers. This powerhouse team of creative minds is evident from the outset, as the show introduces viewers to Marshall Cuso (portrayed by Dave King), a seemingly ordinary genius who finds himself at odds with big pharmaceutical companies due to their harmful practices towards people and the environment. In his possession is a unique mushroom that has the potential to cure the deadliest diseases and mend even the most critical injuries, making him a key player in the world’s future.
In my observation, it’s not just Marshall who’s privy to this mysterious mushroom’s secret. Shrouded entities from various pharmaceutical conglomerates, potential competitors, the government, and even the Drug Enforcement Administration have taken notice. This revelation sets off a whirlwind of intrigue as Marshall embarks on a mission to share his world-changing discovery. Amidst the chaos, I find myself reconnecting with an old high school acquaintance, Frances Applewhite (Emily Pendergast), who’s employed by one of the globe’s leading medical corporations, desperately seeking this miracle drug. The plot thickens, and that’s what makes this series such an engaging watch.
The Debut of Common Side Effects may initially appear overwhelming with its multitude of details, but it gradually unravels the story bit by bit. The complex central mystery keeps Marshall on tenterhooks, adding to the suspense and excitement of watching. This is even more intriguing given that Marshall is an engaging character at the heart of it all. His unique appearance and character traits, combined with King’s captivating performance, make you cheer for him as he navigates a larger web of mystery.
In every character from the show “Common Side Effects”, whether they’re main or secondary, there’s an impression that they are complete individuals with their own histories and lives. Many jokes appear as seemingly insignificant lines that later turn out to be hilarious payoffs, such as a barista calling out for “Geggory’s” coffee order, followed by Geggory themselves showing up shortly after. The creators of the series seem intent on crafting each scene so that not only the overarching mystery but also the individual moments for each character matter to viewers.
The pivotal characters in this tale are Agents Copano (Joseph Lee Anderson) and Harrington (Martha Kelly), two DEA agents deeply involved in the storyline. Their mission is to apprehend Marshall, yet the specifics behind their mandate remain vague. As orders trickle down from higher-ups, they are resolute in executing their duty while concurrently delving into the rationale for their current predicament. Similarly, Frances, initially portrayed as potentially connected to Marshall, undergoes significant life shifts that ultimately lead her to align with him wholeheartedly.
Beyond its captivating plotlines and witty banter, Common Side Effects boasts an appealing visual style. The characters are vibrant and eccentric, fittingly reflecting their distinct personalities, and the setting is grimy and desolate when it needs to be. Yet, amidst this realism, the hallucinogenic sequences caused by the mushrooms offer a delightful contrast. They aren’t your typical drug-induced scenes, but rather serve as a narrative tool, propelling the story forward. This is where the series truly showcases its animated potential, and each instance results in a visually stunning outcome.
From my perspective, the opening four episodes of “Common Side Effects” exude an air of mystery, character depth, and stunningly crafted animation sequences. It’s evident that Adult Swim is backing this series with confidence, and after witnessing it in motion, it’s not hard to understand why. Each element seamlessly complements the others, offering a refreshingly unique take on animated series that viewers haven’t experienced for quite some time.
Rating: 4 out of 5
Common Side Effects premieres on Adult Swim on Sunday, February 2nd at 11:30PM EST.
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2025-01-29 08:10