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There are many shows that seem nonsensical at first, but a closer look reveals them to be more intelligent than they first appear. Many shows such as Adventure Time, Avatar: The Last Airbender and Steven Universe have become more prevalent and received fantastic reviews from opinion sources such as Metacritic and Rotten Tomatoes. This begs the question: are the strangest shows on television secretly the smartest?

Television shows such as Steven Universe and Adventure Time have been critically acclaimed not only for their characters, scenarios and writing, but also for their connection to social norms.

Steven Universe tells the story of a boy named Steven who is born with a gem on his belly. At first, it seems ridiculous but as the show progresses, it gradually develops a more adult-oriented tone. We learn that the gems on people’s bodies are able to transform people physically and mentally, allowing the show to cleverly touch on themes such as intimacy, sex, gender identity, puberty and transitioning into adulthood.

For example, in the episode “Alone Together,” Steven and his best friend Connie dance together and fuse to form a cohesive being known as Stevonnie. The creation of Stevonnie is followed by narration and dialogue that is careful to avoid referring to the character as a he or a she. Throughout the episode, Stevonnie is admired, and even flirted with, by both boys and girls. This elaborate theme stems from nothing more than a simple plot centered around a boy and a girl’s friendship.

Working reality into a ridiculous premise has been implemented in adult black comedy. Nowhere is this more evident than in Bojack Horseman. The show is about a horse who starred in a sitcom called “Horsin’ Around” back in the 90s, but has since grown into a self-loathing, depressed washout who struggles with addictions and self-destructive behavior.
In one episode, Horseman’s slacker housemate, Todd, writes a rock opera. Horseman reluctantly helps Todd with the plot and music, giving him the chance to be in the spotlight. However, through a series of events, Horseman sabotages Todd’s opera in order to remain housemates. Despite how much Horseman insults Todd, he is insecure about letting him go and realizes that Todd is a source of joy and happiness in his otherwise miserable life.

The show’s first season relies on subtle humor, but as the show progresses, we see the troubled sides of the characters. Rather than the typical punchlines of an animated series, we are given harsh realities of how society has poorly affected the characters. Bojack Horseman is unique from other shows because not only is it a blend of comedy and drama, its storytelling is some of the best I’ve ever seen.

Many of these weird and intelligent shows are animated, and because cartoons are often one of the first types of television shows we are introduced to as children, we are immediately drawn to them and connect with the characters. Some people only see animation as immature, which is unfortunate, because animation nowadays can appeal to both adults and children. It is a medium that all age groups can appreciate.

Weird shows have always existed, but now it seems there are more of them than ever, each one carrying a subtle message. They subject viewers to being entertained as well as questioned. These shows might seem strange now, but they may be considered honorable classics 10 or 20 years down the road.