Sealab 2021

Sealab 2021 was a pioneering adult animated television series that aired on Cartoon Network's late-night programming block, Adult Swim, from 2000 to 2005. This comedic show was created by Adam Reed and Matt Thompson and produced by 70/30 Productions.

The series adopted an unconventional approach to animation by reusing footage from a lesser-known 1970’s animated series, Sealab 2020, produced by Hanna-Barbera. The original Sealab 2020 was a sober, environmentally conscious show, centered around a team of scientists stationed in an underwater laboratory, exploring the mysteries of the ocean. In contrast, Sealab 2021 took this premise and added comedic absurdity and a postmodern twist, converting a once-serious science exploration show into a zany, unpredictable comedy. The reuse of animation from the original show, combined with new dialogues, situations, and characters, lent an idiosyncratic, retro aesthetic to the series, making it all the more unique.

The show's primary plot revolved around the crew's daily life in an underwater lab and their often-absurd investigations and interactions. The SeaLab is supposed to be run by a competent team of scientists and professionals who are meant to conduct critical oceanic research. Still, the reality is far from it. The crewmembers frequently found themselves embroiled in dilemmas of their own making, where bouts of insanity, irresponsibility, and incompetence reigned supreme. Every episode subtly commented on a broad range of topics from the trivial to the political, often descending into chaos and hilarity.

One of the key elements contributing to Sealab 2021’s uniqueness was its ensemble cast of character, each more eccentric than the last. The Sealab crew included Captain Hazel "Hank" Murphy, a once-competent seafarer who has deteriorated into an unpredictable, whimsy stricken leader; Lieutenant Commander Quentin Q. Quinn, the rare voice of reason amidst chaos; Debbie Dupree and Dr. Quentin Q. Quinn, the on-off romantic duo with Dupree's characterization swinging between intellectual and ditzy; Marco Rodrigo Diaz de Vivar Gabriel Garcia Marquez, the angry, violent, yet oddly philosophical character; and several others, all bringing diverse comedic energies to the show.

Reed and Thompson's unconventional approach to the show was evident not only in their reuse of animation but also in their handling of the narration style. Fluency of story or continuity of plot was not a priority in Sealab 2021. Instead, the creators preferred an anarchic storytelling style, with episodes frequently ending in a disaster or explosion stimulated by the crew's ineptitude. The show often broke the fourth wall, took surreal narrative digressions, and embraced the chaotic, often foregoing traditional storytelling norms which further heightened the sense of absurdity the series reveled in.

The voice acting in Sealab 2021 was a critical component in the series' appeal. The voice artists included the likes of Harry Goz, Erik Estrada, Ellis Henican, Kate Miller, and others who brought the eclectic cast of characters to life with their skillful voice acting and comedic timing. The dialogue ranged from the hilariously bizarre to snappy comeback exchanges, adding yet another layer of comedy for viewers to enjoy.

Comparing Sealab 2021 to its contemporaries, the series may not have been as widely recognized or as mainstream, but its impact on the pantheon of adult animation and comedy is undeniable. It is regarded as a landmark show for Adult Swim that paved the way for more innovative adult animation.

In terms of animation style, voice acting, comedic styles, or narrative audacity, Sealab 2021 managed to offer something different from the regular animated television fare, striding boldly in a direction less traveled by other shows of the time. Beyond the absurd humor, it offered thoughtful commentary on a vast array of societal themes, wrapped in an unpredictably entertaining package. This show certainly holds a special place in the sphere of animated television and continues to enjoy a cult following even years after its first broadcast.