Follows former high school lab mates Marshall and Frances as they unravel a conspiracy involving big pharma and the government to suppress knowledge of a rare fungus secret that may contain ... Read allFollows former high school lab mates Marshall and Frances as they unravel a conspiracy involving big pharma and the government to suppress knowledge of a rare fungus secret that may contain the solution to cure all world's diseases.Follows former high school lab mates Marshall and Frances as they unravel a conspiracy involving big pharma and the government to suppress knowledge of a rare fungus secret that may contain the solution to cure all world's diseases.
- Nominated for 1 Primetime Emmy
- 3 nominations total
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Summary
Reviewers say 'Common Side Effects' is a groundbreaking animated series praised for its dark humor, sharp social commentary, and surreal visuals. The show critiques corporate greed and the pharmaceutical industry, provoking deep reflection. Unique animation style and exceptional voice acting are highlighted. However, some note pacing issues and a meandering story. Mixed opinions exist on animation quality, with some finding it crude. Despite critiques, most reviewers highly recommend the show for its originality and engaging content.
Featured reviews
10wfgle
Common Side Effects feels like the next great high-concept adult animation. The first two episodes blend dark humor, sharp social commentary, and surreal visuals in a way that's thought-provoking and inspiring. The story hits on corporate greed, the pharma industry, and human curiosity-but does so in a way that's weird and unpredictable. The writing is clever, the animation is unique, and the voice acting is spot-on. It's the kind of show that sticks with you after watching, leaving you excited for what's next. If the rest of the season keeps this pace, it'll be one of Adult Swim's GOAT shows for sure.
Had no idea about this show so went in totally blind. Seeing Mike Judge attached as the producer gave me high hopes and it does not disappoint. The animation style is really different and took a couple episodes to get used to but I love it now and it suits the tone of the show perfectly. The voice acting is great and the storyline of a guy being hunted down by big pharma for finding a cure all mushroom in the wild is refreshing and not something that has ever been done, especially when it comes to animation. I really hope that Adult Swim continues with this series and stick with the same writers etc. Because they really got a good one here. I give season 1 a solid 10/10 me and my partner both love it, it's really entertaining and the 22-25 minute episode run-times are perfect. Give it a watch, I'd definitely recommend it if you enjoy mature animation. It's also pretty funny at times and the intro is awesome.
Just when I thought scavenger's reign was one of the best animated shows I've seen this gem comes along and puts me on a new road of awesomeness, I'm truly excited to have experienced this show unexpectedly..I don't know what yo say I loved every single episode like I was a kid Infront of TV diving into his favourite cartoon show.yes..this show actually made me feel that, and for that I'm giving it a solid 8 score, I just humbly hope the creators continue to be respectful towards the plot as well as every viewer who loved watching it, no need to rush anything keep it going as it is and develop characters and branch out to new stories that are interesting and suspenseful like previous episodes. I've been fan from the begining and I hope to continue on that path..best of luck to the team behind this wonderful show and thank you.
10calahao
This series strikes just the right nerve with me. It portrays two people with an all cure drug fighting against Big Pharma, which in the precise moment this was released it is extremely topical and warranted.
The animation is alright, but it really spikes up during psychadelic scenes, in some ways reminescent of Scavengers Reign. The character designs are a bit of a mixed feeling: most characters have rather large heads that make them look like adult babies. Ah well.
The humor is usually pretty subdued, which is great as it allows for comedic moments to hit harder. The characters are just the right mixture of likeable and self-centered.
A strong recommendation.
The animation is alright, but it really spikes up during psychadelic scenes, in some ways reminescent of Scavengers Reign. The character designs are a bit of a mixed feeling: most characters have rather large heads that make them look like adult babies. Ah well.
The humor is usually pretty subdued, which is great as it allows for comedic moments to hit harder. The characters are just the right mixture of likeable and self-centered.
A strong recommendation.
This show is outstanding. The fact that an adult swim animated series is this well written and executed is fairly surprising, The last show they had that was at this level was The Venture Bros, and this show leans significantly further towards the drama side of the aisle. It's highly impressive how good the storytelling and serialization for a late night animated series. The animation style is offbeat yet visually appealing. The voice acting is top notch and well suited for each character in the series. I cannot wait for new episodes, and I'm fairly confident in their ability to wrap up the season. Go watch this now!!
Did you know
- TriviaThe pilot was screened at Annecy Festival 2024 and at San Diego Comic Con 2024 (as part of Adult Swim's annual festival event).
- ConnectionsFeatured in WatchMojo: Top 10 TV Shows of 2025 So Far (2025)
Details
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