Why Adult Animation Deserves More Than Just Laughter

The Overlooked Depth of Adult Animation

When you hear the term 'adult animation,' your mind might jump to iconic shows like "Family Guy" or "South Park," or perhaps indie hits like "King of the Hill" or "Smiling Friends." While these series have earned their acclaim, adult animation is often pigeonholed into the comedy genre, overshadowing its potential for deep storytelling and intricate narratives.

Comedy certainly has its place, and series like Adult Swim's classics, such as "Space Ghost," have thrived on episodic comedy with amusing resets each episode. Yet, there’s an untapped potential in the medium that could deliver truly captivating stories. It's a shame that more studios, especially in the West, haven't embraced this narrative potential more enthusiastically.

Hidden Gems and Talented Creators

Despite a slew of narrative-driven shows, many go unnoticed. "BoJack Horseman" occasionally garners attention, but other gems like "Scavenger’s Reign" remain in the shadows. Despite its brilliance, "Scavenger’s Reign" struggled for visibility, and the heartbreaking news of its lack of a second season only underscores the issue.

“The fact that it is not even getting a second season is heartbreaking to me.”

Creators like Genndy Tartakovsky have showcased the narrative potential of the genre with works such as "Samurai Jack" and "Primal." These series highlight the depth and creativity possible in adult animation, proving it’s not just about humor.

The Industry's Irony and Potential

It’s ironic that networks view adult animation as a risk. Originally, animation wasn't child-centric; it was only when TV networks sought content for children that the genre shifted. Yet, successes like "Invincible" demonstrate the genre's appeal and potential for popularity.

The enthusiastic following of "Invincible" is evidence that audiences crave more than just comedy from their animated content. If only studios would recognize this and greenlight more projects, the future of adult animation could be as diverse as it is entertaining.