Bojack Horseman started off as a strange Netflix animated series about a fictional Hollywood where animals walk and talk alongside humans. But over the course of the previous five seasons, it has revealed itself to be so much more than the sum of its parts. Surprisingly, the everyday adventures of a washed-up horse actor has become one of the best depictions of depression around. This is still a cartoon comedy so there are plenty of funny moments but the show’s true nature is as a character study of a self-destructive alcoholic.

This is the first part of the final season which will be followed by the second part in January. The main focus here is on Bojack (Will Arnett) who has decided to check himself in to rehab after years of struggling with substance abuse. The usual colourful cast of characters also return, including reporter Diane (Alison Brie), homeless drifter Todd (Aaron Paul) and agent/cat Princess Carolyn (Amy Sedaris). Creator Raphael Bob-Waksberg is more comfortable than ever mixing quirky cartoon comedy with weightier themes which is what makes this final season stand out.

Bojack Horseman is a show in which a character can go across America on the search for his kidney (which he sold for sock poppets) one moment and has other characters suffer the very real consequences of alcoholism the next. This season, the focus on real-life issues is more prominent than ever for better or for worse. It does get tiring at points to listen to cartoon animals constantly talking about their feelings but in a way, that is the point. It is easier (and more entertaining) to address complex human emotions when you are using a talking horse to do so.

It’s not all doom gloom as the show is still as funny as ever with Aaron Paul continuing to provide the best comedy moments. Still, there are real consequences for each of the characters. There has never been a reset at the end of each episode of Bojack Horseman like The Simpsons or Family Guy. Each episode continues exactly where the last one left off which is why you may be lost if you start watching it this season. Either way, you should definitely check this out before the final part arrives as it is one of the best TV shows around.

Disclaimer Notice: Any thoughts and opinions expressed here are solely my own. Any images (copyrighted or otherwise) have been used according to Creative Commons and if needed, have been referenced to the best of my knowledge.

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