Netflix’s “BoJack Horseman” has outdone itself with an outstanding fifth season that delves further into the human psyche. The season was released on Sept. 14 to well-deserved hype. Show creator Raphael Bob-Waksberg (“Undone”) somehow manages to make his animal characters more relatable than most human characters on other TV shows. 

“BoJack Horseman” revolves around the titular personified horse-actor (Will Arnett, “Teen Titans Go! To the Movies”), who has lost popularity years after starring in a hit TV show. The setting of this world is Hollywoo (a satire of Hollywood), where humans and animals interact. Arnett is brilliant at showing all the layers of the troubled BoJack with his voice depicting an entire range of emotions. BoJack’s storyline this year was very intricate and more depressing than ever.

He has finally started to make his resurgence with his new hit show “Philbert.” Everything seems to be going in the right direction for him, as he begins a relationship with his co-star Gina (Stephanie Beatriz, “Brooklyn Nine-Nine”). His underlying need for affection and peer approval eventually gets the best of him, however, as his reliance on drugs and alcohol leads him on yet another unsettling path.

The standout moment of the season and possibly the whole series is the sixth episode titled “Free Churro.” BoJack’s vulnerability is on full display in this 26-minute work of art. He is forced to deliver a eulogy for a loved one, and the writing flawlessly demonstrates all human emotions. It would be a shame if Arnett does not get an Emmy nod for his voice-over in this episode.

Alongside BoJack is his former roommate Todd (Aaron Paul, “American Woman”), who is a human. Todd is struggling with his newfound asexuality and running his own time-keeping business. BoJack and Todd’s relationship has drifted through the years, but Todd’s zany antics were toned down this season, and he was finally given a linear storyline.

Human journalist Diane Nguyen (Alison Brie, “Glow”) shined in this turbulent season, as well. The ghost writer for BoJack’s autobiography stood out during the episode “The Dog Days are Over.” She visits Vietnam after divorcing Mr. Peanutbutter, a dog who is BoJack’s rival and Todd’s friend (Paul F. Tompkins, “Duck Tales”), with her goal being to find out more about her ancestry. Diane is emotionally lost, and the episode does a great job at showcasing cultural division in society. BoJack’s feline agent Princess Carolyn (Amy Sedaris, “Handsome”) also evolves in this 12-episode season with her desire to adopt a baby.

One of the most unique qualities about “BoJack Horseman” is its ability to discuss and satirize current events. One notable storyline revolves around a talented actor who continuously degrades women and breaks the law. The show tries hard to decipher if it is normal to separate the art and the artist. This was made in response to celebrities such as Harvey Weinstein and Kevin Spacey, who abused their power in Hollywood. This is not the first time the show has expressed its views regarding controversial issues. Last season’s episode “Thoughts and Prayers” portrayed gun violence in the United States, and there was also a storyline dealing with abortion. The writers make these polarizing topics fit surprisingly well into an animated adult dramedy.

The show got renewed for a sixth season due to its originality and critical reception.  If one is a fan of a well-written series with great visual humor and wordplay, then BoJack is the show for you. This is the epitome of an animated show done right and with a purpose.

Image from Netflix via YouTube