In the animated series “Long Story Short,” Raphael Bob-Waksberg crafts a unique narrative that intertwines personal and universal themes, offering viewers a heartfelt exploration of family dynamics.
Exploring the Universal Themes in the Heartfelt Animated Series “Long Story Short”
Raphael Bob-Waksberg has transitioned from the realm of talking animals in “Bojack Horseman” and “Tuca & Bertie” to present a deeply personal family animated sitcom titled “Long Story Short.” This 10-episode Netflix comedy resembles a powerful anthology of short stories more than a traditional season of humor-filled television. Collaborating with his writing team, Bob-Waksberg navigates through the lives of the Schwooper family, jumping between characters and timelines in each episode. These self-contained narratives gain added depth through their accumulation. I recall a moment after the funeral of a cherished uncle during my teenage years, sitting in a back room, listening to his brothers and nephews share stories about him. “Long Story Short” captures that essence, serving as a melancholic yet joyous tribute through comedic storytelling to a family that may not be yours but feels remarkably relatable.
A Unique Take on Family Dynamics
The Ben Stiller figure in this variation of “The Royal Tenenbaums” is Avi (Ben Feldman of “Superstore”), the eldest child of the Schwooper clan, which also includes Shira (Abbi Jacobson of “Broad City”) and Yoshi (Max Greenfield of “New Girl”). We check in with these characters at various stages of their lives: a young Avi and one post-divorce; Shira at a disastrous prom and as a mother; Yoshi as an awkward troublemaker who later embraces Orthodox Judaism. All these events unfold under the influence of a significant figure in the storytelling, matriarch Naomi Schwartz (Lisa Edelstein), wife to the kind-hearted Elliott (Paul Reiser). While Naomi embodies some stereotypical traits of a Jewish mother in comedy, Edelstein imbues her with such depth that even in her absence, her presence is profoundly felt.
Character Development and Storytelling
The Schwoopers are surrounded by significant others, friends, and children, including Avi’s wife Jen (Angelique Cabral), Shira’s partner Kendra (the wonderful Nicole Byer), Avi’s daughter Hannah (Michaela Dietz), and Yoshi’s foolish friend Danny (Dave Franco). The writing remains unpredictable, branching out to explore the backgrounds of these characters. My favorite episode reveals unexpected backstory for Kendra, offering a developmental anecdote that allows viewers to perceive her in a new light. “Long Story Short” introduces its ensemble cast and then delves into their backgrounds, enhancing our understanding of them when they reunite in the present day during the eighth episode.
Animation Style and Voice Acting
Co-animated by ShadowMachine, known for diverse projects like “Tuca” and “Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio,” “Long Story Short” may not be the most visually striking show on TV. At times, its animation style feels simplified, resembling sketches that one of the characters, perhaps Shira, might have drawn in a memory book. While it takes some time to acclimate to the style, it’s deceptively simple, capable of expressing emotions and narratives that live-action could not achieve. The animation also facilitates the time jumps, which would necessitate recasting voice actors if it were a traditional sitcom.
Strong Voice Acting and Writing
The voice acting is uniformly impressive, particularly Feldman, Jacobson, and Edelstein, who resonate on the same comedic wavelength. Importantly, the voice actors seamlessly embody their characters, avoiding the typical celebrity detachment often found in voice work. Greenfield, Byer, Reiser, and Franco also deliver excellent performances, showcasing a vocal ensemble invigorated by exceptional writing.
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Empathy and Tenderness in Storytelling
While some of the writing leans towards traditional sitcom tropes, especially with the teenage Schwoopers’ antics, it carries an empathy and tenderness that is often lacking in contemporary shows. Many series feel cynically crafted by writers who struggle to connect with their characters; however, the team behind “Long Story Short” genuinely loves the Schwoopers, embracing their flaws and wonders. You will too.
Whole season screened for review. Now on Netflix.
