Adult Swim’s Common Side Effects has burst onto the scene with a sharp blend of satire, surrealism, and social commentary. It’s not every day an animated show juggles medical ethics, magic mushrooms, and emotional depth. But here we are. With a perfect 100% critic score on Rotten Tomatoes, this series has certainly made waves. Let’s dissect what makes it tick — and where it stumbles.
What Makes Common Side Effects Stand Out
1. Stunning and Unconventional Animation
Right from the first episode, the visual style hits you. It’s weird, bold, and almost hypnotic. Think psychedelic realism mixed with cartoon absurdity. It sets the tone, pulling viewers into a bizarre yet oddly believable world. Every frame feels alive. This visual audacity gives the show its edge.
2. Thought-Provoking Themes and Storylines
Beyond the visuals lies a surprisingly rich narrative. The plot taps into timely issues — healthcare failures, pharmaceutical greed, and personal responsibility. But it does so with a wink. It’s dark, yes, but never preachy. The suspense builds slowly, encouraging you to think while keeping things just bizarre enough to entertain.
3. Memorable and Well-Crafted Characters
Characters here aren’t one-dimensional. They wrestle with ethical dilemmas and emotional trauma. That complexity keeps you hooked. From underdog scientists to pharma kingpins, every role serves a purpose and adds weight to the story. You may not always like them, but you’ll want to know what they do next.
Where Common Side Effects Might Lose You
1. Complex Themes Require Mental Investment
The series dives deep into heavy territory. Ethical quandaries, systemic corruption, and corporate science aren’t exactly light fare. Some viewers might find this overwhelming. It’s not a background show — it demands focus and rewards attention.
2. Surrealism Isn’t Everyone’s Cup of Tea
Let’s be honest — the show gets weird. Really weird. Floating mushrooms, mind-bending visuals, and philosophical tangents could alienate more casual viewers. If you like your stories neat and grounded, this might be a tough sell.
3. Short Episodes Leave You Wanting More
Each episode clocks in around 23 minutes. That’s fast when you’re trying to unpack big ideas. Some storylines feel rushed. Just when you’re fully immersed, the credits roll. While this keeps pacing brisk, it sometimes cuts off deeper engagement.
Final Verdict: Common Side Effects Boring?
So, is Common Side Effects boring?
Absolutely not.
The show combines artistry with narrative intelligence, inviting viewers to think and feel in equal measure. It’s odd, occasionally overwhelming, but never dull. For those seeking something different — something with teeth and style — this is worth the watch.
But fair warning: it’s not for everyone. If you’re after escapist fluff, look elsewhere. If you enjoy shows that challenge, engage, and occasionally bewilder, you’ll find a lot to appreciate here.
Boring Score: 9.2/10
It’s sharp, strange, and surprisingly profound. Not boring — not even close.
In fact, it’s so good that we even launched the site dedicated to this show: https://commonsideeffects.tv/