New Indie Animation Series Offers Fun for Rick and Morty Fans

Fans of the acclaimed animated series Rick and Morty have a new source of entertainment while they await the next season. The indie series Sunny Side Down consists of a series of animated shorts that offer a similar blend of emotional storytelling and sci-fi comedy. Set in a diner situated on the edge of a black hole, the series taps into themes that resonate with its audience while delivering humor akin to that of Rick and Morty.

The creators at MAKE Studios have crafted this series entirely independently, showcasing the growing trend of artists utilizing the internet to find their audiences. At LightBox in Pasadena, California, Screen Rant’s Brandon Zachary spoke with director and writer Natalia Poteryakhin about what makes Sunny Side Down unique.

Exploring the Galaxy of Sci-Fi Parodies

“Indie animation is a wellspring of amazing work. We can tell different kinds of stories,”

Poteryakhin stated, emphasizing the creative freedom that comes with independent production. The series introduces viewers to Nat, a beleaguered waitress trapped in the gravitational pull of her diner job. The format comprises six episodes, each approximately two minutes long, which parody various sci-fi tropes.

The first episode features a humorous take on iconic characters reminiscent of Star Trek‘s Captain Kirk and Spock, infused with the irreverent humor characteristic of Rick and Morty. Poteryakhin elaborated on the collaborative nature of the project, highlighting contributions from storyboard artist Andy Vella, who added visual gags that enhanced the comedic elements of the script.

Balancing Humor with Deeper Themes

Initially focused on punchlines, the series has evolved to incorporate more substantial narratives. Poteryakhin explained how the shorts have grown from one-minute segments to two-and-a-half-minute episodes that delve into the lives of the characters and their relatable struggles. The traditional animation style of Sunny Side Down stands out in an industry increasingly dominated by digital art.

While the series excels in humor, it also addresses more somber themes, similar to the emotional depth found in Rick and Morty. Poteryakhin noted,

“I think everyone feels like there’s this big, looming, dreadful thing behind them. To live with that and to find humor in it is what the show is all about.”

This balance is evident in the first episode, which combines quirky animation and absurd alien humor with a relatable sense of life’s inevitabilities.

Poteryakhin reflected on the decision to create shorter episodes, stating,

“We’re making two-minute shorts. We know that’s an unusual format, but that’s how we’re making the best-looking animation possible.”

By focusing on brevity, the team aims to deliver high-quality animation without compromising the storytelling.

As the first episode of Sunny Side Down becomes available online, it promises to engage fans of sci-fi parodies and those seeking a fresh take on animated storytelling. The series captures the essence of independent creativity while resonating with audiences who appreciate humor that also touches on deeper themes.