The Freak Brothers

The Freak Brothers is a 2020 animated comedy series available to stream on Tubi, adapted from the quirky 1970s underground comic series, 'The Fabulous Furry Freak Brothers.' The series is an eclectic blend of counter-culture ethos of the comic strips, modern humor, and imaginative storytelling. All these elements are mixed into a goofy and surreal brew, thriving in the free, but often challenging, waters of eclectic animated comedy.

The Freak Brothers introduces us to Freewheelin’ Franklin Freek, Fat Freddy Freekowtski, and Phineas T. Phreakers, who are roommates and freaks in every sense of the word. They're an endearing cast of underachievers and misfits with a fondness for recreational plants – a rather direct nod to the comic's 1970s roots. True to the comic’s spirit, the show is full of high-spirited, lowbrow humor, zany adventures, and a penchant for psychedelic indulgences. It maintains a firm grasp the comic strip's 'flower power' ethos, embracing the decadence, anarchy, and anti-establishment sentiments that shaped the 70s counterculture.

The animation style of The Freak Brothers reflects the bright, vibrant, and exaggerated art style reminiscent of its comic forerunner, but with a polished, modern look. The visuals are appealingly whimsical, full of nods to the comic's era and ties to the present day. The series takes advantage of the animated medium to do things that live-action simply can't, from outlandish physical comedy to wacky universe-jumping adventures.

In the first season, the trio, along with their mischievous cat, Kitty, are propelled from the 1960s stoner culture to the 21st century after ingesting some ‘special’ herbs. Their transition from the hippie days to the technologically advanced present times is brilliantly set up for hilarity and chaos. The culture shock is immediate and poignant, serving as a recurring humor point throughout the show, as well as a subtle comment on the seismic shifts in socio-political climates between the two eras.

Adding to the fun is the rogues’ gallery, vibrant side characters and cameos who brilliantly mirror and mock the conventional 'straight society.' The show pulls no punches in its caricature of the mundane and the morally rigid, repeatedly pitting the brothers against such forces in its comedic extravaganzas. Their interactions with these side characters often result in some of the most hilarious moments of the show, affirming the fluidity of The Freak Brothers in striking a balance between social critique and peals of laughter.

In terms of voice acting, the series boasts a talented ensemble cast, including Woody Harrelson, Pete Davidson, Tiffany Haddish, and John Goodman, who all bring an authentic touch to the characters. Their chemistry is palpable, and they perfectly voice the spirit of their oddball characters, infusing every line with the right balance of absurdity and charm. They effortlessly embody their characters, voicing their slacker slang and ill-fated escapades with an energy that’s equal parts infectious and hilarious.

The Freak Brothers also contains a fantastic soundtrack. The series is a love letter to the era of classic rock and folk music, with many scenes accentuated by brilliant tunes. From touching acoustic numbers to psychedelic rock anthems, the show’s score always adds a delightful layer to the visuals.

Even though The Freak Brothers is unapologetically silly in its antics, the series isn’t entirely devoid of thoughtful moments. At times, its explorations of brotherhood, free will, status quo resistance, and cross-generational dialogues lend quiet profundity to the cloud of smoke-tinged hilarity.

Overall, The Freak Brothers is a strange, overstated, wildly imaginative, and daringly different animated comedy series. It’s an eccentric joyride through the worlds of counter-culture, friendship, and timeless humor, with storytelling as colorful and offbeat as its central characters.