Ep 3. Milo Interrupted

The Oblongs season 1 episode 3 "Milo Interrupted" follows the misadventures of the titular family as they navigate the corrupted world they inhabit. The show is set in the fictional town of Hill Valley, where the toxic pollution from the neighboring factory has caused the residents to develop various mutations and disorders.

The episode begins with the Oblong family dealing with a power outage, which leaves them without any electricity. They soon realize that their neighbor, Tommy, has not been affected by the blackout, and has been hoarding electricity for himself. However, their attention soon turns to Milo, their teenage son, who has been acting strangely.

Milo, who is usually a lazy and apathetic teenager, suddenly becomes motivated and productive, much to the confusion of his family and friends. He starts exercising and working on art projects, and even volunteers to clean up the town's polluted lake. However, his enthusiasm turns into obsession, as he becomes increasingly fixated on his art and ignores his responsibilities and relationships.

As Milo's behavior becomes more erratic and dangerous, his family realizes that he has been secretly taking a medication that enhances his focus and creativity. The medication was prescribed to a high-achieving student who accidentally gave it to Milo, thinking it was an energy drink. The medication is revealed to have dangerous side effects, and Milo's family must race against time to find an antidote and save him from the drug's effects.

The episode is a satirical take on the cultural pressure to constantly be productive and successful, even at the cost of one's well-being and relationships. Milo's behavior and the medication he takes are a commentary on the damaging effects of performance-enhancing drugs, as well as the societal expectations placed on high-achievers.

Throughout the episode, the Oblong family's dysfunctional dynamic is on display, with each member having their own flaws and quirks. The patriarch, Bob, is a hardworking but often callous father who works at the factory responsible for the town's pollution. The matriarch, Pickles, is a vain and frivolous woman who is obsessed with her appearance and social status. Their children are similarly flawed, with Milo's siblings Helga and Biff suffering from various mutations and disorders.

Despite their dysfunctions, the family members care for each other and try to do what is best for one another. The episode ends on a heartwarming note, as Milo's family comes together to find a way to cure him of the drug's effects and save him from himself.

Overall, "Milo Interrupted" is a darkly comedic and poignant episode that explores themes of family, societal expectations, and personal well-being. Its witty satire and lovable characters make it a standout episode of The Oblongs' first season.