In the vast landscape of animated television shows, BoJack Horseman stands out for its unique blend of humour, satire and raw emotional storytelling.
With a staggering IMDB score of 8.8/10 and a 93 per cent score on Rotten Tomatoes, you know you are in for a treat.
Created by Raphael Bob-Waksberg and voiced by an all-star cast including Will Arnett, Alison Brie, Amy Sedaris, Aaron Paul and even Stanley Tucci, this critically-acclaimed Netflix original series received several awards over the years for its thought-provoking narratives and complex characters.
So what’s with the anthropomorphism?
The series’ creator addressed this in a Vulture interview.
“People project themselves on to him more easily because he is not a person, he is a horse somehow. If you see Will Arnett in a show, you think, ‘well, that’s Will Arnett, that’s not me.’ But seeing a horse somehow feels more universal, or it feels more like, ‘that could be me.’”
BoJack Horseman transcends the boundaries of traditional animated series by presenting deeply flawed and multifaceted characters.
The main character, BoJack Horseman, is at the centre of it, posing as a washed-up actor struggling with fame, addiction and existential crises.
Spanning the 77 episodes that make the show, the commitment to genuine character development creates an intimate connection between viewers and the characters, making their triumphs and tribulations deeply relatable.
Beyond the surface-level humour, BoJack Horseman is an eye-opening social commentary on the entertainment industry, mental health, relationships, and our inescapable human condition.
The show also fearlessly tackles issues such as celebrity culture, sexism, racism and the pursuit of happiness in a world that often seems indifferent. The approach invites viewers to reflect on their lives and their society.
While BoJack Horseman is celebrated for deep emotional exploration, it never sacrifices its comedic elements. The show seamlessly blends humour with intense, emotionally charged moments. The clever wordplay, visual gags and witty commentary on pop culture contribute to an intellectually stimulating and entertaining watch.
With its unparalleled character development, social commentary, and unique animation style, this series stands as a testament to the potential of animated storytelling.
Whether you’re a fan of animated shows or not, BoJack Horseman is a must-watch for anyone seeking a heartfelt, thought-provoking and thoroughly enjoyable television experience.
Bojack Horseman’s six seasons are available on Netflix.
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