Many of you who know me personally are aware that I can go from acting out an absurd persona and instantly switching to a serious demeanor if the situation required it. A few years ago, I found a show that reflected everything I though defined my personality. I noticed a banner at the top of the Netflix homepage that advertised a new adult animated series called BoJack Horseman. My curiosity couldn't keep me from clicking on that link and watching the pilot – I was instantly hooked.
I never expected a television series about a washed-up, alcoholic, depressed celebrity (who is a horse), a homeless young adult, a cynical ghostwriter, a workaholic cat, and an overly-enthusiastic dog actor to foster the most introspective moments in my life. No other art piece has made me reflect more deeply about who I am and what i strive to be than this show.
After six-and-a-half seasons, I can't count the number of times I've been rolling on the floor in a fit of laughter then immediately having a mental breakdown and thinking that I'm not worthy of anything good. I believe that anyone who enjoys witty humor and meaningful contemplation will appreciate what this series has to offer. The only other show that comes close to craftily balancing the comedy and tragedy as well as the BoJack Horseman did is Scrubs with JD, the protagonist, regularly bouncing between absurd daydreams and existential crises.
The animals and humans in BoJack Horseman live lives so different than anything I could ever imagine living, but they still prove to be relatable and sympathetic. And the show effectively shows that forgiveness is not something that should be expected for those who hurt others. This show expertly reminds the audience that bad people exist, and they tend to have a habit of staying bad even after they apologize. The show has not turn me into a cynic by any means, but it has shaped a part of my worldview that believes that it is not enough for someone to be good; they must do good to truly be considered good.
If you haven't given BoJack Horseman a chance, hold onto you Netflix subscription ("But Disney+"... I know, I know), and get caught up before the final half of the last season of this remarkable show is released at the end of this month.
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