Escape by immersing yourself in color...
#1 "Rick and Morty"
Created by Justin Roiland and Dan Harmon
Starring Justin Roiland, Chris Parnell, Spencer Grammer, Sarah Chalke
4 Seasons
2013-present
I almost feel bad putting such a serene image to label such an irreverent show, but, if you're not ready to be surprised, offended, and maybe even a little repulsed, then this show isn't for you. If you're looking for a good laugh delivered by an alcoholic, ass-kicking version of Back to the Future's "Doc Brown", then strap in and get ready. As an extra-special treat, the show is currently airing for FREE in a 24/7 live stream on Adult Swim's website.
Rick (Roiland) is a kooky old scientist, and the smartest man alive, who travels the multiverse with his sidekick and grandson, Morty. This science-fiction/dark-comedy is one of the smartest and funniest things currently on air; just when you think you've got this show figured out, a giant curveball from outer-space comes flying at you, as you suddenly realize that "Get Schwifty" is, indeed, the jam we all need. Peter Libbey of the New York Times called the show "nihilistic and absurdist, in a way that speaks to the skepticism and anxiety experienced by young Americans."
Available to stream on Hulu and AdultSwim.com
#2 "Bojack Horseman"
Created by Raphael Bob-Waksberg
Starring Will Arnett, Amy Sedaris, Alison Brie, Paul F. Tompkins, Aaron Paul
6 Seasons
2014-2020
Getting through Season One of "Bojack Horseman" get be a little shaky if you're not fully onboard for a show about self-sabotage, insecurity, depression, substance abuse, and emotionally abusive parenting. But hey! It's a comedy! If you've never watched it before, I recommend starting with Season Two, when the show really starts to pick up steam. Sure, you'll be thrust into a world occupied by anthropomorphic animals mixed with regular humans, and you won't understand why they all live in "Hollywoo," but just accept the reality, and you'll be fine.
The writing in "Bojack" can often land hard, and stick with you for a long time...
"When you look at someone through rose-colored glasses,
all the red flags just look like flags." -Wanda (Lisa Kudrow)
While other dialogue only sinks in after multiple viewings... The faster than lightning tongue twisters delivered by Princess Carolyn (Sedaris), the unparalleled optimism and obliviousness of Mr. PeanutButter (Tompkins), the unexpected wisdom of slacker/pothead/couch-surfer Todd (Paul) are all reasons why you should give this show a shot. With so many layers and intertwining stories, I would often re-watch prior seasons before the next premiered.
Between comedic moments, the show addresses some really tough issues: miscarriage, asexuality, alzheimer's disease and sexual abuse are just a few. It might sound like I'm trying to scare you away, but I truly adore this show. Check it out, if only for the gorgeous animation! For a lighter episode that's enjoyable even out of context, check out Season 3, Episode 4: "Fish Out of Water". The episode is visually and sonically stunning, takes place entirely underwater, and centers around the difficulties of communication and overcoming obstacles in an unfamiliar environment.
Available to stream on Netflix