As children, we all enjoyed watching cartoons, but as we grow older, we sometimes start to think of cartoons as something only for kids. However, that’s not true. There are cartoons for every age, and many of them are just as enjoyable and meaningful for adults. The themes and topics addressed in these adult-oriented cartoons are more relatable and thought-provoking, allowing grown-ups to find something that resonates with them.
In this post, I want to talk about cartoons that are specifically made for an adult audience. These cartoons tackle issues and themes that are much more complex and mature, often exploring relationships, society, and even existential questions. They offer a deeper layer of meaning that adults can appreciate, and sometimes even find humor in a way that’s just not possible for younger viewers.
So, if you’re an adult who’s curious about the world of animated shows for grown-ups, or simply looking for something beyond the typical cartoon fare, I hope you’ll enjoy reading about these fantastic animated series. Happy reading!
Avatar: The Last Airbender.
The world of Avatar: The Last Airbender is divided into four distinct nations: the Water Tribes, the Earth Kingdom, the Air Nomads, and the Fire Nation. Each nation is home to individuals who can control one of the four elements — Water, Earth, Air, or Fire — and are known as the benders of that element. However, only one individual, the Avatar, has the power to bend all four elements, and it is their duty to maintain balance among the nations and preserve world order.
The story begins when the Fire Nation, led by the Fire Lord, launches a ruthless war to conquer the other nations. The responsibility of stopping this conflict falls on the young shoulders of Aang, a twelve-year-old airbender who learns that he is the Avatar. With the fate of the world at stake, Aang embarks on a challenging journey to master all four elements, accompanied by his courageous friends Katara and Sokka from the Water Tribe. Along the way, Aang faces numerous trials, conquers his own fears, and must eventually defeat the Fire Lord in order to end the war and restore balance to the world.
I’m sure many of you have heard of or even watched this amazing series, but if you haven’t, I highly recommend it. Avatar: The Last Airbender is a visually stunning and emotionally powerful show divided into four seasons (or books), each focusing on a different element. It beautifully explores important life values like friendship, love, family, and honor. Each character is so well-developed, and you’ll surely find a hero to root for.
What I love most about this cartoon is the incredible character development, especially that of Aang. We get to see his evolution from a frightened, reluctant boy who initially shies away from his responsibility to a courageous young man willing to risk everything for the greater good — all while staying true to his core values.
There is also a sequel, The Legend of Korra, which I’ve started watching but haven’t finished yet. But regardless, I wholeheartedly recommend watching Avatar: The Last Airbender to experience the incredible journey of Aang and his friends. It’ll transport you back to a time when you could still feel the wonder of a well-told adventure, no matter your age.
So, if you’re looking to relive the magic of childhood, or if you’ve never seen it before, give Avatar: The Last Airbender a try. It’s a timeless story that’s as powerful today as when it first aired.
Samurai Jack.
Set in 16th century Japan, Samurai Jack begins with the evil demon Aku attacking the capital, destroying everything in its path. The emperor, desperate to save his people, calls upon three wise men with mystical powers to forge a magic katana imbued with the forces of good. Armed with this sword, the emperor fights Aku and, with the help of the forces of good, defeats the demon, sealing him in stone deep in the mountains.
However, eight years later, during a solar eclipse, Aku rises again. By this time, the emperor has grown old, and his son, who will later become known as Samurai Jack, is young. Aku attacks once more, capturing the emperor. But the emperor’s wife and son manage to escape. The young boy travels the world, meeting skilled craftsmen and warriors, learning various martial arts such as horseback riding, judo, Greco-Roman wrestling, kung fu, and weaponry. After many years, the young samurai returns to his homeland, now under Aku’s tyrannical rule.
With the help of his mother, the boy receives the magic katana, the key to Aku’s defeat. He rescues his father and frees the enslaved people, but Aku is not easily defeated. The demon transforms into various monstrous forms, trying to overpower the warrior, but Samurai Jack proves to be his match. Just as Jack prepares to deliver the final blow, Aku opens a time portal and sends him 25,000 years into the future. Now, the samurai, who the people of this future time call Jack, must find a way back to his original time to restore the future and destroy Aku once and for all.
Though created by the same team behind Avatar: The Last Airbender, Samurai Jack offers a unique experience, particularly in its art style. At first glance, the cartoon might seem childish, but deep beneath the surface lies a rich philosophy about the samurai, war, and humanity. The show masterfully blends action, intriguing characters, and deep themes, making it far more than just a simple adventure series.
The long-awaited Season 5 finally gave fans a proper conclusion to Jack’s journey, and the finale is deeply emotional. Samurai Jack fulfills his mission, but at what cost? The series’ resolution is both touching and thought-provoking, and you’ll find yourself reflecting on it long after watching.
The cartoon’s art may be minimalist at times, but its storytelling is anything but simple. The dynamic action, memorable characters, and the constant battle between Jack and Aku keep you hooked throughout. The villains, in particular, are a standout, offering a thrilling antagonist for our hero.
So, if you’re in the mood for a fun, action-packed cartoon with philosophical undertones, Samurai Jack is the perfect choice for an easy evening of viewing. It’s not just about the battles — it’s about what it means to be a true warrior.
Gravity Falls.
Gravity Falls is set during the summer in the mysterious town of Gravity Falls, Oregon, where twins Dipper and Mabel Pines go on vacation to stay with their great-uncle Stan. He runs a tourist trap called the Mystery Shack, a bizarre souvenir shop that attracts curious visitors. At first, Dipper and Mabel are bored in this sleepy town, but they quickly discover that Gravity Falls is anything but ordinary.
Dipper stumbles upon a mysterious journal — Diary #3 — hidden deep in the forest. The diary, written by an unknown author, documents the strange and supernatural occurrences in the town. With the diary in hand, Dipper becomes determined to uncover the secrets of Gravity Falls and discover the identity of the journal’s author. Along with his twin sister, Mabel, Dipper embarks on an adventure filled with bizarre creatures, cryptic messages, and dangerous encounters. The town is full of mysterious places, from haunted forests to hidden caves, and every corner holds a new enigma to unravel.
While Gravity Falls might initially appear as a cartoon aimed at children, it offers so much more beneath the surface. The series is filled with hidden clues, symbols, and coded messages that unlock deeper themes about family, growing up, and personal relationships. Each episode brings a new puzzle to solve, and the clever writing invites viewers to pay close attention to even the smallest details. The show balances light-hearted fun with moments of real emotional depth, making it a show for all ages.
One of the most appealing aspects of Gravity Falls is the town itself. From the eerie Mysterious Forest to the legendary Gnomes, each location adds to the mystical charm of the town. The characters encounter new strange creatures and solve cryptic riddles in every episode, making it a thrilling ride from start to finish. As the show progresses into Season 2, the stakes grow even higher. Secrets are revealed, and the mysteries of Gravity Falls become darker and more dangerous.
The show also delves into themes of mysticism, magic, demons, and supernatural creatures, offering viewers a chance to explore a world filled with intrigue and wonder. As the story builds, you’ll find yourself more and more eager to solve the mysteries and uncover the truth behind the supernatural occurrences in Gravity Falls.
So if you’re in the mood for a mix of adventure, mystery, and comedy, Gravity Falls is the perfect show to watch. It’s not just a kids’ cartoon — it’s a captivating series that invites you to explore a world full of secrets and wonder. Watch closely, and you’ll want to uncover every hidden font and puzzle in this quirky, magical town.
Over the Garden Wall.
Over the Garden Wall tells the story of two brothers, Wirt and Greg, who find themselves lost in a mysterious forest called “The Unknown.” In their journey to find their way home, they are joined by an old, wise lumberjack and a talking bird named Beatrice, who each bring their own quirks and wisdom to the group.
Wirt, the older of the two brothers, is a cautious and anxious teenager, always overthinking and avoiding risks. He finds solace in playing the clarinet and writing poetry, but he hides these passions out of fear of ridicule. His younger brother Greg, on the other hand, is carefree, naive, and full of boundless energy. His innocence and optimism serve as a contrast to Wirt’s more reserved nature. Together, the brothers complement each other in a way that makes their journey both heartwarming and endearing.
The series itself has a fairytale-like quality, not unlike Gravity Falls, but with its own unique charm. The relationship between the two brothers is at the core of the story, and their interactions are full of both conflict and love. While they have their disagreements and moments of frustration, there is an undeniable bond between them. They protect and care for each other in their own ways, and this dynamic forms the emotional heart of the show.
The forest they wander through is a strange and magical place, inhabited by both wondrous and terrifying creatures. However, the cartoon presents these creatures in a way that’s more charming than frightening. Rather than focusing on scares, the show invites viewers to embark on a journey with the brothers, exploring the forest and meeting the peculiar characters they encounter along the way.
The series balances whimsy, adventure, and heart with themes of growth, family, and finding one’s way. Over the Garden Wall is a beautifully crafted tale that’s perfect for anyone looking for a magical, emotional journey filled with quirky characters and timeless lessons. It’s a story about family, about taking risks, and about the strange yet beautiful paths we walk in life.
Legend of Vox Machina.
The Legend of Vox Machina
In The Legend of Vox Machina, seven friends have long been seen as losers by everyone around them. They’re the kind of people who wander the city, drink heavily, and are often dismissed as incapable of anything important. But this misjudgment is about to change. These friends, eager to prove everyone wrong, are thrust into a dangerous and incredible journey that will challenge everything they’ve ever known.
The group discovers that monstrous creatures have infiltrated the world, threatening to seize control and subjugate humanity. With the fate of the world on the line, the once-aimless friends must band together and become a cohesive, unstoppable force. Along the way, they’ll face unimaginable challenges, but they are determined to fight back, even if it means sacrificing themselves for the greater good.
What’s more, the journey not only tests their strength but also their bonds. They may not have been appreciated before, but through their trials, they discover what truly matters: a family forged in adversity. Through these hardships, they become more than just a team—they become a real, supportive family that cherishes each other.
The series is set in a dark fantasy world, filled with magic, monsters, and conflict. The story is packed with action, humor, and heart, and it’s all wrapped in stunning animation. If you’re a fan of Dungeons and Dragons or enjoy fantasy adventures where heroes are forged through adversity, The Legend of Vox Machina will captivate you. It’s a tale of growth, sacrifice, and the realization that true happiness comes from being loved and valued by those who matter most.