BoJack Horseman is a critically acclaimed animated series that aired on Netflix from 2014 to 2020. Created by Raphael Bob-Waksberg, the show follows the life of a washed-up 90s sitcom star named Bojack Horseman (voiced by Will Arnett) as he tries to make a comeback in Hollywood.
The show is known for its sharp wit, dark humour, and unflinching portrayal of mental health issues. In this article, we’ll be looking at 10 of the best Bojack Horseman episodes. As usual, you are welcome to drop your thoughts in the comments below:
“The Telescope” (Season 4, Episode 9)
“The Telescope” features a flashback to Bojack’s early days in Hollywood, where he meets his hero, a writer named Herb Kazzaz (voiced by Stanley Tucci). The two become fast friends, but their relationship is shattered when Herb is fired from their show for being gay. Years later, Bojack tries to make amends with Herb, only to find that he is dying of cancer.
This episode is a poignant exploration of regret and the consequences of one’s actions. Bojack’s attempts to make amends with Herb are complicated by his own guilt and the realization that he may not be able to fix the past. The episode is a reminder that actions have consequences, and sometimes the only thing we can do is learn from our mistakes and try to be better in the future.
“Free Churro” (Season 5, Episode 6)
“Free Churro” is a tour de force of a single monologue delivered by Bojack at his mother’s funeral. The episode is shot entirely as a close-up of Bojack’s face as he delivers a eulogy for his mother. The monologue is a masterclass in acting from Will Arnett, who manages to convey a wide range of emotions through his voice alone.
The episode is a powerful depiction of grief, trauma, and the complicated relationship between Bojack and his mother. Bojack’s speech is a raw and emotional confession that shows the depth of pain he feels and the complexity of his relationship with his mother. It’s a haunting and beautiful moment that encapsulates the series’ ability to balance comedy and drama.
“Fish Out of Water” (Season 3, Episode 4)
“Fish Out of Water” is a visually stunning episode that sees Bojack travelling to an underwater film festival to promote his new movie. The episode is mostly silent, with Bojack unable to communicate with the other characters due to the underwater setting.
The episode is a commentary on communication and the difficulty of connecting with others. Bojack’s attempts to navigate the festival lead to a series of mishaps and misunderstandings, but the episode also has moments of beauty and wonder. The episode is a testament to the show’s ability to experiment with storytelling and create visually striking moments.
“Stupid Piece of Sh*t” (Season 4, Episode 6)
“Stupid Piece of Sh*t” is a unique episode that shows Bojack’s inner monologue as he deals with feelings of self-doubt and worthlessness. The episode is a raw and honest portrayal of mental health issues, and it’s a reminder that we all have moments of self-doubt and insecurity.
Bojack’s inner monologue is often harsh and critical, but it’s also a reflection of the expectations he has for himself. The episode is a powerful reminder that we should be kinder to ourselves and that we should try to be more understanding of others who struggle with mental health issues.
“Time’s Arrow” (Season 4, Episode 11)
“Time’s Arrow” is a heartbreaking episode about the life of Bojack’s mother, Beatrice (voiced by Wendy Malick), and her struggle with dementia. The episode is a masterclass in storytelling, with the narrative jumping around at different times as Beatrice’s memories begin to fade.
The episode talks about the nature of memory and the toll that dementia takes on individuals and their families. The episode is also a reminder that our past experiences shape who we are and that we should strive to be empathetic and understanding of others.
“Escape from L.A.” (Season 2, Episode 11)
“Escape from L.A.” sees Bojack reconnect with his old flame, Charlotte (voiced by Olivia Wilde), and her family in New Mexico. The episode is a nostalgic trip down memory lane as Bojack reminisces about his past and the missed opportunities that have led him to where he is now. The episode is also a commentary on the idea of the “one that got away” and the danger of trying to recapture the past.
Bojack’s attempt to win Charlotte back leads to a confrontation that changes the course of their lives. The episode is a strong reminder that sometimes the past should stay in the past and that we should focus on moving forward instead of dwelling on what could have been.
“The Old Sugarman Place” (Season 4, Episode 2)
“The Old Sugarman Place” is another poignant episode of Bojack Horseman that explores the generational trauma that is passed down in families. The episode follows Bojack’s family history, focusing on his grandparents and their troubled relationship.
It’s a powerful episode that reminds us that our past experiences shape who we are and that we should strive to break the cycle of pain and trauma that’s passed down. The episode is also a commentary on the way in which mental health issues can go untreated and the toll they can take on families.
“That’s Too Much, Man!” (Season 3, Episode 11)
This is a devastating episode that sees Bojack and Sarah Lynn relapse into drug use as they try to cope with the pain of their past. The episode explores addiction and the ways in which we try to numb our pain.
“That’s Too Much, Man!” is also a commentary on the nature of fame and the pressure to constantly be “on.” The final moments of the episode are tragic and heartbreaking, as Sarah Lynn succumbs to an overdose. It’s a reminder that addiction is a disease and that we should strive to be more understanding and compassionate towards those who struggle with it.
“Ruthie” (Season 6, Episode 8)
“Ruthie” is a beautifully crafted episode that explores the idea of legacy and the impact we have on those around us. The episode follows Bojack’s former co-star, Sarah Lynn (voiced by Kristen Schaal), as she grapples with the consequences of her own choices and the legacy she will leave behind.
The episode sends the message that our actions have consequences and that we should be mindful of the impact we have on others. This episode is a powerful commentary on the nature of fame and the pressure to leave a lasting legacy.
“The View from Halfway Down” (Season 6, Episode 15)
In “The View from Halfway Down,” Bojack confronts his own mortality in a surreal and haunting episode that sees him imagining himself at a dinner party with deceased loved ones. As he struggles to come to terms with his impending death, the episode offers an exploration of the fear of what comes next. It’s a powerful lesson, reminding us that life is precious and we should cherish the time we have with our loved ones.
The episode’s dreamlike visuals and haunting score create an atmosphere of unease and dread, as Bojack subconsciously battles to come to terms with his own mortality. It’s a fitting conclusion to Bojack’s journey, as he finally accepts that he is drowning in his own self-destructive behaviour.
There we have it, our list of the 10 best BoJack Horseman episodes. What do you think about our picks? Which one would you have included? Let us know in the comments below: