Buddy Review

Buddy, a feature-length adaptation of the Adult Swim series Too Many Cooks, hits theaters on August 28. Created by director Casper Kelly, Buddy is a subversive and innovative take on 80s and 90s sitcom intros, evolving into a surrealist nightmare. Though Kelly previously experimented with this style in 2021's Adult Swim Yule Log, Buddy is recognized as the film's true spiritual successor.

The movie opens as a children's enrichment program, using its saccharine trappings to deliver edgy and clever content. Buddy the Unicorn, voiced by Keegan-Michael Key, serves as the central character, enamoring children with his dulcet tones and teaching them about various topics. As the film progresses, it becomes increasingly clear that Buddy conceals more sinister intentions.

Key's vocal performance is commendable, subtly conveying danger within the song-like nature of Buddy's voice. The film's early focus on blurring the lines between reality and Buddy's world gradually wears thin as the pacing becomes a notable weakness. Though the movie's visuals are generally consistent, the shift to widescreen displays of the program occasionally disrupts the illusion of reality.

Buddy also features standout performances from Patton Oswalt as Strappy, Michael Shannon as Charlie the Train, and Freddy's character, played by Delaney Quinn. The production design by Anna Kathleen and puppet design by Devon Hawkes Ludlow are also noteworthy, creating a visually appealing balance between the movie's inspirations and its unique tone.