Creating joy for others often proves to be quite a challenge, a lesson that Charlie, Pim, and their companions in Smiling Friends learn repeatedly, often with dire consequences. Regardless, their adventures consistently bring a smile to my face! Below is a complete ranking of all episodes from worst to best.
17. Who Violently Murdered Simon S. Salty
In this whodunit episode, the Smiling Friends are on the case to solve the gruesome murder of Simon S. Salty. Tasked with identifying the perpetrator, the crew hopes to deliver justice with a smile. Although the interrogation scenes featuring fast food mascots are inventive, the jokes here don’t quite match the cleverness found in stronger episodes.
16. The Smiling Friends Go to Brazil
Regarded as one of the least enjoyable episodes, “The Smiling Friends Go to Brazil”delivers a discomforting experience. Upon arriving in Brazil for a holiday, the team finds themselves stranded at the airport without a hotel reservation. While the premise offers potential for humor, the episode devolves into exhaustive arguments among colleagues, and its boldness earns it a few points, standing out for its unique approach—an episode devoid of traditional jokes.
15. Mr. President
Though Smiling Friends had an opportunity to deliver sharp political commentary, it didn’t fully capitalize on the moment. The gang finds themselves working with the universally despised President Jimble as he fights against Mr. Frog in a losing election. Instead of insightful political humor, the episode resorts to absurd restroom jokes. It remains enjoyable, yet could have offered more.
14. Brother’s Egg
In another rather unsettling episode, “Brother’s Egg”follows Daniel, also known as Professor Psychotic, who has bizarre plans involving injecting his DNA into chicken eggs to assume control. When his older brother Doug confronts him, there is a breakdown in familial relations, highlighted by unsettlingly realistic dialogue that echoes the tragedy found in sensational TV. The result is decidedly dismal.
13. Silly Halloween Special
Halloween tales are universally loved, yet this episode seems to lack a narrative. At the company Halloween gathering, Mr. Boss instructs Pim to gather firewood while steering clear of a spooky bridge. Nevertheless, Pim’s curiosity leads him to a creepy 3D animated demon in a harrowing chase. Despite the plot’s shortcomings, the episode houses one of the finest animated sequences in the series.
12. Pim Finally Turns Green
In this holiday special, the Smiling Friends embark on a wintry adventure reminiscent of Frozen as they construct a snowman named Rotten, who is burdened with existential questions about life and death. Throughout the episode, the friends strive to alleviate Rotten’s worries while also featuring a cameo from Bill Nye the Science Guy in an unexpected scene.
11. Magical Red Jewel (aka Tyler Gets Fired)
“Magical Red Jewel”showcases the Smiling Friends at their best. Mr. Boss directs Pim to accompany him to Spamtopia, a bizarre neon environment, as his Spamish interpreter. The critical rule? Don’t make eye contact or face dire consequences. Of course, Pim breaks this rule almost immediately. The creative animation and hilarious voice acting make this episode uniquely enjoyable.
10. Shrimp’s Odyssey
Focusing on a lovesick shrimp named Shrimp, this episode follows the Smiling Friends as they attempt to rekindle his romance with Shrimpina. While Charlie suggests moving forward, Pim believes in mending the relationship. The delight comes from seeing these characters evolve alongside the introduction of Smormu, a delightful addition to the crew.
9. Mr. Frog
Mr. Frog finds himself at the center of controversies surrounding celebrity downfall after a shocking incident where he consumes a reporter. Hired by Mr. Frog as his public relations team, the Smiling Friends must navigate the chaotic aftermath. Featuring themes of celebrity culture and the uncomfortable reality of idolization, this episode delivers laughs and profound insights.
8. Charlie Dies and Doesn’t Come Back
This spoiler-heavy episode kicks off with Charlie being crushed by a tree, only to find himself in a frozen Hell where a despondent Satan simply doesn’t care to run the inferno. He learns that making the Devil smile is the key to returning to life. A delightful season finale filled with ironic humor and entertaining scenarios.
7. Erm, the Boss Finds Love?
In their second attempt at a Halloween-themed episode, the Smiling Friends present a standout story where Mr. Boss’s new demon girlfriend threatens to exploit him. Under the guise of love, her sinister intentions become evident as the crew seeks to expose the truth. This thrilling episode is accompanied by cleverly executed jump scares for maximum comedic impact.
6. Charlie, Pim, and Bill vs the Alien
This episode introduces Bill, a conspiracy theorist with a belief in aliens, making for a comically tragic arc. The trio is eventually abducted, but unbeknownst to them, their real adventure lies ahead. Their journey culminates in a wild space party, yet the comedic twist is that Bill’s beliefs about the earth being flat turn out to be true.
5. Enchanted Forest
Featuring a whimsical 1970s inspired animation style, the “Enchanted Forest”episode showcases Pim and Charlie on a quest alongside a hobbit-like character named Mip to bring joy to a princess. As Pim garners accolades for his efforts, Charlie is left in the shadows, consumed by envy, leading him down a dark path.
4. Gwimbly: Definitive Remastered Enhanced Extended Edition DX 4K (Anniversary Director’s Cut)
This episode’s title is perhaps the most unforgettable of all, earning its place not just on a title basis but as a source of comedic delight. The absurd plot involves Pim and a new partner attempting to revitalize a forgotten video game character. Meanwhile, Charlie faces his own trials with a madcap creature, blending zany storytelling with surreal animation that makes this episode a must-watch.
3. Frowning Friends
As a new rival company emerges to profit off of misery, Charlie and Pim confront their shadowy doppelgängers, Gnarly and Grimm. This engaging episode explores themes of optimism versus pessimism, reminding viewers of the importance of spreading positivity, even in the face of adversity. With emotional depth intertwined with humor, it becomes a memorable installment.
2. A Allan Adventure
In this unique episode, “A Allan Adventure,”Allan, the laziest employee, takes on a deceptively simple task: picking up paperclips. What follows is an epic journey punctuated by unexpected chases and fantastical battles, showcasing the wild and unpredictable essence of Smiling Friends from a fresh narrative angle.
1. Desmond’s Big Day Out
The series’ premiere episode remains its crowning achievement. With a mission to show the distressed Desmond that life is still worth living, Pim and Charlie attempt to brighten his spirits throughout an outing while he clutches a revolver at his temple. Meanwhile, Allan contends with chaos back at the office. This blend of humor, darkness, and heartfelt moments exemplifies Smiling Friends at its finest.
(Featured Image: Adult Swim)
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