Ever since Netflix first started, it has been on a fast track to success. With that success, came change and improvements. It used to be about mailing DVD’s. (Oh my god, do you remember that? Time flies doesn’t it? It had to be like 2007 or something when the service was only mailing DVD’s. Can you imagine if they still did that? Ha-ha that be dumb as f@#k) Then they evolved to streaming tv and movies directly to computers and mobile devices. As popularity grew for Netflix, so did the wallet of founder Marc Randolph. After streaming directly to everyone’s devices, the only logical step was to provide original programing. After successes like "House of Cards", and "Orange is the New Black," we got Netflix’s first original animated show: "Bojack Horseman," which is the subject of today’s Bingeworthy Review. So kiddies, let’s Review: "Bojack Horseman."
So what is "Bojack Horseman" about? On the surface, it seems like some weird [Adult Swim] show you would watch at 3 in the morning stoned off your rocker, when you should be getting some sleep so that you’re ready for your econ test tomorrow. But the show actually has a lot of depth to it. The show centers on titular character, Bojack Horseman (played by Will Arnett). Back in the 90’s he was in a very famous television show. Now, he’s a washed up, alcoholic, self-loathing, actor trying to get back on top in Hollywood, while years of fame and fortune only leaves him with a handful of friends.
One of his friends, and roommate is Todd Sanchez (Played by Aaron Paul. He also is the executive producer. Aaron Paul pretty much dove right into this show right when Breaking Bad was ending. I don’t know if that cool or not. Was it he believed he was afraid he was going out of work as soon as Breaking bad ended? Or was he that sure this show would be great that he was willing to work on it right after five years of working on a hard hitting drama?) The only other friend is his cat talent agent, Princess Caroline (Amy Sedaris). He makes a few friends along the way to re-fame like his ghost writer Diane Nguyen (Allison Brie.) as well as his rival in the sitcom business, Mr. Peanut butter (Paul F. Tompkins).
I could write a lot about this show. Since it debuted in 2014, I’ve been a pretty loyal fan. A while ago, I reviewed a show called “Flaked” and described it as a more serious version of Bojack Horseman. I still believe that statement holds true. Bojack horseman, while being a clever comedy with colorful and warm animation, also has heavy and dramatic undertones to give it a variety of entertainment value. There’s a lot of real comedy to the show, but it’s really evident with it’s use of puns. Mostly animal pun names for real life movies and stores. (i.e. Lululemming, Eel or no Eel) You get the idea, but the comedy more than puns, it can be really smart and make just about any one laugh.
Not only does the show have a lot of funny moments, but it is also very heavy. The more dramatically jarring moments are from Bojack. Bojack through the series is this brooding character who hates himself and anyone around him. But really, he just wants to be happy, and for the people around him to be happy. But when he’s close to finding what he wants, he regularly screws it up for himself and other around him. Will Arnett has become one of my favorite actors because of this show. He develops such a wide emotional range.
Overall I find this show wonderful. Its use of colorful and whimsical animation draw you in, while its emotional and intelligent writing keep you waiting for the new season. I think this show deserve full attention from you as a viewer, but can still be a show you watch with friends. While this show is consistently good throughout the seasons, it is missing a certain pzazz to make it amazing. In the end I think it’s a wonderful show, and everyone should give it a shot.
Score: 4/5