Common Side Effects: Where to watch? Episodes, Casts & Reviews
Dive into the wild world of Common Side Effects, an innovative adult animated series that blends conspiracy, comedy, and thrilling narratives. This article explores the number of seasons and episodes, the intriguing storyline, the talented voice cast, reviews from various platforms, and where you can stream this unique show online.
How many seasons and episodes does Common Side Effects have?
Common Side Effects currently features one season with 10 episodes. The series premiered on Adult Swim on February 2, 2025, with two back-to-back episodes, followed by weekly releases through March 30, 2025. On March 28, 2025, it was announced that the show has been renewed for a second season, though no specific release date has been confirmed. The first season offers a complete yet open-ended story, setting the stage for further adventures in the upcoming season.
What is the plot/storyline of Common Side Effects?
Common Side Effects, created by Joseph Bennett and Steve Hely, is an adult animated thriller that premiered on Adult Swim in 2025. The series centers on Marshall Cuso, a quirky fungal expert voiced by Dave King, who stumbles upon the Blue Angel Mushroom, a rare Peruvian fungus with the astonishing ability to cure nearly every disease, including potentially death itself. This groundbreaking discovery sparks a chain of events that reconnects him with his former high school lab partner, Frances Applewhite, voiced by Emily Pendergast, as they uncover a sprawling conspiracy.
The plot kicks off when Marshall shares his find with Frances, who initially hesitates but soon recognizes its potential value, especially to support her mother battling dementia. Their investigation reveals a sinister plot involving Reutical Pharmaceuticals, a major drug company, and the DEA, who aim to suppress the mushroom’s existence to protect corporate profits and global health control. The narrative escalates as Marshall becomes a target, forcing him to evade mercenaries, government agents, and corporate hitmen while experiencing hallucinatory side effects from the mushroom, including visions of tiny white humanoid figures.
The story introduces DEA agents Copano and Harrington, voiced by Joseph Lee Anderson and Martha Kelly, who track the duo with a mix of incompetence and curiosity. Meanwhile, Frances navigates her own challenges, torn between her boyfriend Rick and the allure of the mushroom’s promise. The season unfolds across 10 episodes, blending dark humor with suspense as the pair races to expose the truth. Key moments include Marshall seeking advice from his mentor Hildy, a raid on a compound with dire consequences, and a climactic finale where the mushroom’s fate hangs in the balance.
Unlike typical animated comedies, Common Side Effects dives into serious themes—corporate greed, healthcare ethics, and the power of nature—while maintaining a satirical edge. Inspired by real-world mycologists and the Coen Brothers’ films, the series uses its surreal animation and offbeat humor to critique the pharmaceutical industry. The pacing can feel rushed at times, especially in the setup of episode one, but the evolving conspiracy and character-driven stakes keep viewers engaged. The season ends on a satisfying yet mysterious note, hinting at deeper explorations in the confirmed second season.
What are the casts of Common Side Effects?
Common Side Effects boasts a talented voice cast led by Dave King as Marshall Cuso, the eccentric fungal genius at the story’s heart. Emily Pendergast voices Frances Applewhite, his determined former lab partner. Mike Judge, known for Beavis and Butt-Head, lends his voice to Rick, the distracted CEO, adding a layer of comedic irony. Joseph Lee Anderson and Martha Kelly bring DEA agents Copano and Harrington to life, infusing the pursuit with quirky energy. Additional voices include Sue Rose, Shannon Woodward, and Danny Huston, enhancing the ensemble with diverse characters like mentors and corporate figures, directed by Camille Bozec and Sean Buckelew.
What are the reviews of Common Side Effects?
Reddit Reviews
Posts on Reddit praise Common Side Effects for its fresh animation style and topical take on big pharma, with some binging it in one sitting. Some users note the pacing feels fast initially, but the humor and unique vibe win them over, hoping for a second season.
Douban Reviews
Due to regional access limits, Douban reviews are scarce, but available feedback highlights the show’s innovative approach and social commentary. Non-Western viewers suggest cultural context might enhance appreciation of its satire.
IMDB Reviews
IMDB users rate Common Side Effects around 8.2/10, lauding the storytelling, characters, and Mike Judge’s involvement. Some critique the early rushed plot, but many see it as a standout adult animation with potential for growth.
Rotten Tomatoes Reviews
Rotten Tomatoes gives a 100% approval rating based on 26 critic reviews, with an average of 8.7/10, calling it an “addictive mix of expressive animation and heady concepts.” The audience score aligns with praise for its originality, though some find the animation style challenging.
Where to watch Common Side Effects online?
Common Side Effects is available on Adult Swim, where episodes can be streamed for free with ads, and on Max, with new episodes added the day after airing, starting at $9.99/month with a 7-day trial. It’s also accessible via HBO Max Amazon Channel, YouTube TV, DIRECTV Stream, and for purchase on Amazon Video, Apple TV, and Fandango at Home. International viewers may need a VPN like NordVPN for access. Check regional availability, as the show remains exclusive to these platforms.
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