As the year in television draws to a close, HBO Max offers a standout addition to its lineup with “Common Side Effects”, an adult animation series that blends psychedelic visuals with a gripping conspiracy thriller narrative. The show, which premiered recently, centers on a rare mushroom with miraculous healing properties and the ensuing battle to control it. Set against a backdrop of shifting allegiances, the series is a timely exploration of power dynamics and human ambition.
The protagonist, Marshall Cuso, played by Dave King, is an off-the-grid fungi researcher who discovers a mystical blue mushroom in a secluded Peruvian valley. This discovery, which holds the potential to revolutionize medicine, places Marshall in the crosshairs of Big Pharma and U.S. federal agents. As he becomes a fugitive, accompanied by his tortoise, Mr. Socrates, Marshall’s idealistic dream of eradicating illness becomes a threat to those in power.
The Battle for Control
Marshall’s discovery is not just a scientific breakthrough but a catalyst for a larger conflict. Swiss financier Jonas Backstein, portrayed by Danny Huston, sees Marshall as a “destabilising force” that could disrupt the financial status quo. The temptation to exploit the mushroom’s potential for profit is a central theme, particularly for Frances Applewhite, played by Emily Pendergast. Frances, burdened by personal debts and ailing family, finds herself torn between loyalty to Marshall and the allure of financial security.
The show’s creators, Joe Bennett and Steve Hely, bring their experience from projects like Scavengers Reign and Veep to craft a narrative that is both a phantasmagorical science-fiction tale and a sharp political satire. The animation style, characterized by muted colors and expressive character designs, enhances the storytelling, offering a visual journey that is as compelling as the plot itself.
Supporting Characters and Subplots
Adding depth to the series are a host of supporting characters, each with their own stakes in the unfolding drama. From drug enforcement agents questioning their mission to Marshall’s mentor, Hildy, driven by obsession, the show weaves a complex web of motivations and consequences. Mike Judge lends his voice to Frances’ boss, an inept CEO whose concerns are more about personal privilege than corporate responsibility, echoing familiar themes from Judge’s previous works.
The animation’s unique style and the mushroom’s hallucinogenic effects create a narrative that is both visually and emotionally engaging.
“Imagine Three Days of the Condor remade by Hayao Miyazaki,”
suggests the creators, highlighting the series’ blend of suspense and whimsy.
Comparisons and Cultural Impact
In the broader context of adult animation, “Common Side Effects” stands out for its ambitious storytelling and thematic depth. While reminiscent of other genre-defying series, it carves its own niche by tackling contemporary issues through the lens of an animated thriller. The show’s exploration of corporate greed, scientific ethics, and personal loyalty resonates with current global narratives, offering viewers both entertainment and reflection.
The series joins a growing list of adult animations that challenge traditional storytelling boundaries, contributing to a vibrant and evolving genre. Its release on HBO Max positions it alongside other innovative series, reinforcing the platform’s reputation for diverse and high-quality content.
Looking Ahead
As “Common Side Effects” continues to captivate audiences, its impact on the landscape of adult animation is likely to be significant. The series not only entertains but also provokes thought, encouraging viewers to question the motivations behind scientific and corporate pursuits. With its blend of humor, suspense, and social commentary, the show is poised to become a defining work in the genre.
For those seeking a series that challenges perceptions and offers a fresh narrative experience, “Common Side Effects” is a must-watch. As the year comes to a close, it serves as a reminder of the power of storytelling to illuminate and inspire.
