Dec 13, 2024

Trailer for “Common Side Effects” showcases satirical jabs at health care

Joe Bennett of “Scavengers: Reign of Terror” and “Veep” and “American Dad! The Office” and Steve Herry, and executive producer Mike Judge and Greg Daniels of ‘King of the Hill’ fame, Adult Swim has released the trailer for the satirical thriller ”Common Side Effects.”

A preview of the animated series was first shown at Annecy in June, followed by a six-minute clip on Youtube at Comic-Con in July.

Serial episodes will premiere on Adult Swim on Sunday, February 2, 2025 at 11:30pm ET/PT, followed by a new episode each Sunday. New episodes will also be available on Max on Mondays.

The story follows two former high school lab partners who stumble upon a mushroom that can cure almost anything, apart from the interests of corporations like the DEA, big pharma, and international businessmen, and earlier this month, UnitedHealth Group CEO Brian Thompson struck a chord with pop culture critics after the murder. One Youtube pundit noted, “The timing of this trailer couldn't be more perfect.”

While not directly addressing the topic of the times, Adult Swim president Michael Uwelin stated in a press release for the series:

Joe and Steve have created something incredibly original in a series that is thrilling, beautiful, and deeply funny.

Joe and Steve have created something incredibly original in a thrilling, beautiful, and deeply funny series. It's top-level television that challenges expectations and asks deep questions. It's a truly special series, unlike anything I've ever seen before. I'm trying not to exaggerate, but it's true.

Bennett and Helly wittily added, “‘Common Side Effects’ will hopefully be enjoyed by anyone who has ever taken drugs.”

“Common Side Effects” is produced by Green Street Pictures and Bandera Entertainment. The founders of both companies are featured on Cartoon Brew's 2024 U.S. Animation Power List. The list describes Green Street Pictures as “the most exciting new independent studio in Los Angeles.”