Created by Joseph Bennett and Steve Hely, Common Side Effects is an adult animated series that blends comedy, drama, and conspiracy thriller elements. The show follows Marshall and Frances, two former high school lab partners who stumble upon a mushroom with extraordinary healing properties. Their discovery sets off a chain of events involving pharmaceutical companies, government agencies, and international conspiracies.
The series stands out for its unique animation style and thought-provoking narrative. It tackles themes like the ethics of healthcare, corporate greed, and the power of nature, all while maintaining a quirky and engaging tone. With a blend of humor and suspense, Common Side Effects offers a fresh take on the adult animation genre.
Common Side Effects Date and Streaming Platform
Common Side Effects premiered on February 2, 2025, on Adult Swim, with new episodes airing every Sunday at 11:30 p.m. ET. The series is also available for streaming on Max, Hulu, Amazon Prime, and Sling TV, making it accessible to a wide audience.
The show has garnered critical acclaim, boasting a 100% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and an 80 out of 100 on Metacritic. Its unique blend of genres and timely themes have resonated with viewers, leading to its renewal for a second season.
Common Side Effects Storyline – What’s the Plot?
The narrative centers around Marshall Cuso, a mycologist who discovers the “Blue Angel” mushroom in Peru, a fungus capable of curing any illness. Upon returning to the U.S., he reconnects with Frances Applewhite, his former lab partner now working for a major pharmaceutical company. Together, they navigate the challenges of bringing this miraculous cure to the public while facing opposition from powerful entities.
As they delve deeper, they uncover a vast conspiracy involving big pharma, the DEA, and international businessmen, all intent on suppressing the mushroom’s existence. The series explores the moral dilemmas faced by the protagonists as they grapple with the implications of their discovery and the lengths they’re willing to go to protect it.
Common Side Effects Direction and Screenplay
The series is helmed by creators Joseph Bennett and Steve Hely, with executive producers Mike Judge and Greg Daniels lending their expertise. Their combined experience in crafting compelling narratives is evident in the show’s tight storytelling and sharp dialogue.
The screenplay balances humor and drama, effectively highlighting the absurdities of the healthcare industry while maintaining a grounded emotional core. The direction ensures that each episode builds upon the last, creating a cohesive and engaging narrative arc that keeps viewers invested.
Common Side Effects Acting and Characters
The voice cast features Dave King as Marshall Cuso and Emily Pendergast as Frances Applewhite, both delivering nuanced performances that bring depth to their characters. Mike Judge voices Rick Kruger, the bumbling CEO of Reutical Pharmaceuticals, adding a layer of satirical humor to the series.
Supporting characters include DEA agents Copano and Harrington, voiced by Joseph Lee Anderson and Martha Kelly, respectively. Their dynamic adds a comedic yet menacing presence to the show. The ensemble cast contributes to the rich tapestry of the series, each character playing a pivotal role in the unfolding conspiracy.
Common Side Effects Music, Background Score and Visual Appeal
The series’ score, composed by Nicolas Snyder, complements the show’s tone, enhancing both its comedic and suspenseful moments. The music underscores the narrative’s shifts, adding depth to the viewing experience.
Visually, Common Side Effects boasts a distinctive animation style that sets it apart from other adult animated series. The animation, produced by Green Street Pictures and Le Cube, employs a blend of surreal and realistic elements, effectively conveying the show’s themes and mood.
Should You Watch Common Side Effects? – My Final Verdict
Absolutely. Common Side Effects offers a unique blend of humor, suspense, and social commentary, making it a standout in the realm of adult animation. Its engaging storyline, compelling characters, and distinctive visual style create a viewing experience that’s both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Whether you’re a fan of conspiracy thrillers, dark comedies, or animated series that push the envelope, Common Side Effects is a must-watch. Its timely themes and sharp wit ensure that it resonates with audiences long after the credits roll.
Common Side Effects Details Table
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Genre | Animation, Comedy, Drama, Thriller |
| Language | English |
| Platform | Adult Swim, Max, Hulu, Amazon Prime, Sling TV |
| Release Date | February 2, 2025 |
| Creators | Joseph Bennett, Steve Hely |
| Executive Producers | Mike Judge, Greg Daniels |
| Runtime | Approximately 23 minutes per episode |
| Seasons | 1 (Renewed for Season 2) |
| Episodes | 10 |
| Composer | Nicolas Snyder |
| Production Companies | Green Street Pictures, Bandera Entertainment, Tell Me More, Williams Street |
Common Side Effects trailer
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Common Side Effects FAQs
Where can I watch Common Side Effects?
You can watch Common Side Effects on Adult Swim, Max, Hulu, Amazon Prime, and Sling TV.
How many episodes are there in Season 1?
Season 1 consists of 10 episodes, each approximately 23 minutes long.
Has Common Side Effects been renewed for a second season?
Yes, the series has been renewed for a second season.
Who are the main characters in the series?
The main characters are Marshall Cuso, a mycologist who discovers a healing mushroom, and Frances Applewhite, his former lab partner who works for a pharmaceutical company.
What themes does the show explore?
Common Side Effects delves into themes such as the ethics of healthcare, corporate greed, government conspiracies, and the power of natural remedies.
