Ep 5. Heroine Addict

The Oblongs season 1 episode 5 - Heroine Addict is a dark comedy that follows the dysfunctional lives of the Oblong family, a group of misfits who live in the toxic and polluted valley beneath a wealthy hilltop community. This episode opens with the family watching a cheesy superhero TV show, which inspires Mikey, the middle child, to transform himself into a superhero called the Pickler. Equipped with dill pickle nunchucks and a green jumpsuit, he sets out to rid the valley of crime and villainy.

As the Pickler, Mikey quickly gains popularity among his peers and becomes a local hero. However, his fame leads to trouble when he gets addicted to a prescription drug called Heroine, which he's given by a corrupt doctor who's been paid off by a group of villains known as the Debbies. The Debbies, led by a ruthless queen bee, are a clique of popular girls who have taken over the middle school and use Heroine to maintain their power and control over the other students.

As Mikey's addiction worsens, his behavior becomes erratic, and he begins to neglect his obligations as the Pickler. His sister, Beth, tries to intervene, but Mikey is too proud to admit that he needs help. Meanwhile, the Debbies plot to destroy the Pickler and take over the valley completely.

The episode explores various themes such as drug addiction, peer pressure, corruption, and the abuse of power. The characters are well-developed, and the humor is edgy and often satirical. The animation style is unique, featuring sketchy, almost grotesque designs that emphasize the ugliness and decay of the Oblongs' environment.

Despite its dark and disturbing themes, the episode maintains a sense of humor and doesn't take itself too seriously. It also manages to deliver a poignant message about the dangers of drug abuse and the importance of seeking help when needed. Overall, Heroine Addict is a compelling and entertaining episode that showcases the show's twisted sense of humor and its ability to tackle serious issues in a lighthearted way.