Sugar and Toys

Sugar and Toys, which premiered on Fuse in 2019, is a cutting-edge and subversive animated show. Filled with social commentary, hip-hop culture, and a dash of nostalgia, the series is a unique and unusual take on Saturday morning cartoon shows, but now reimagined for grown-up audiences who still enjoy animations, albeit with a matured and insightful perspective.

Created by Carl Jones and Brian Ash, who were also behind celebrated shows such as ‘Black Dynamite’ and ‘The Boondocks,’ Sugar and Toys breathes a new life into the animation landscape with its ability to blend contemporary critical observations with humorous and absurd storytelling.

Set in an alternative universe focussed on adult animation, Sugar and Toys thrusts viewers into culturally relevant topics, incorporating issues that cover politics, race, social media, and pop culture. Each episode serves a platter of animated sketches that offer both a satirical and raw view of controversies and cultural phenomena. It’s a roller coaster of fun and thought-provoking satire that challenges norms, pushing boundaries of thought and creating a conversation among its viewers.

To add a layer of authenticity to the show's hip-hop ethos, the first season was hosted by rap artist KYLE, who is known for his hit song "iSpy". His laid-back persona complements and balances the often audacious and elaborate narratives of the sketches. Also, the show features a variety of guest appearances from well-known figures in the entertainment industry, creating an exciting and edgy experience for its audience.

The animation in Sugar and Toys is as vibrant and diverse as the theme of the series itself. With its mix of rough-edged graffiti-like animations, to smooth and glossy mainstream animation styles, the series doesn't shy away from delving into different aesthetics, creating a visually interesting and engaging portrayal of its stories. Beautifully sketched, well-animated sequences successfully become the bedrock for the delivery of impactful plotlines, further highlighting the essence of each sketch.

At its heart, Sugar and Toys is a bold animation show that wants to start a dialogue, a thought process through its imaginative plots. It serves as a mirror to societal realities featuring diverse skits like 'Schoolhouse Trap,' a hilarious yet heartbreaking commentary on gun violence, 'Plastic Yeezy,' a hilariously absurd skit questioning our cultural infatuation with material objects, and 'Thirsty Cops,' which serves hard truths about police brutality through humor. By taking on such themes, Sugar and Toys refuses to merely entertain the audience but educates them in a fresh and unique manner.

Furthermore, the show's clever use of its soundtrack, primarily rooted in the hip-hop genre, serves as a thread that binds everything together. The beats match the tempo of the narrative, enhancing the overall viewing experience. At times, the music serves as a secondary narrative influencing the mood of the skits, thereby amplifying their effect.

The creators of Sugar and Toys, Carl Jones and Brian Ash, have pushed the envelope with this show. And their effort can be truly appreciated for their dedication to amplifying societal issues through the medium of adult animation, while still ensuring that the program stays engaging and fun. It is a distinctive approach to dealing with contemporary themes, that sends out a key message to the audience in a unique and riveting manner.

In conclusion, Sugar and Toys is a unique combination of elements from Saturday morning cartoons, hip-hop music, and socially astute commentary. It is challenging and eye-opening, sometimes shocking and always entertaining. Whether it’s hip-hop enthusiasts, fans of adult animation, or just someone who wants an unconventional satirical take on societal issues, this show caters to all. It delivers humor, edginess, and relevant discussions, wrapped in a package of ingenious animations and storytelling, making it a show unlike any other. It is sure to keep you thinking long after the credits roll.