Side Quest: Comic Store Dreams & MMORPG Tributes

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Apart from “Slow Horses” and “For All Mankind,” Apple TV+’s workplace comedy “Mythic Quest” is one of their longest-running series and without a doubt one of the funniest. Having just concluded its fourth season, enthusiasts of this sitcom delving into the behind-the-scenes action at a fictional video game company won’t have to wait long for more, as a new spin-off anthology series titled “Side Quest” is set to delve deeper into the “Mythic Quest” universe, focusing on players, staff, and fans of the multiplayer online role-playing game.

The creators of Mythic Quest, Charlie Day, Megan Ganz, and Rob McElhenney, are no strangers to standalone episodes; the exceptional “Dark Quiet Death” from season one, featuring Jake Johnson and Cristin Milioti, set the stage for this tradition. While the first standalone episode is undeniably the best and most impactful, “Backstory!” from season 2 ranks a strong second. It’s no surprise then that they chose to follow this pattern in their debut spin-off series. However, does Side Quest measure up to the same high standards set by the initial two self-contained episodes?

Simply put, while the spin-off episodes lack the same level of quality and depth as those from Mythic Quest, they still provide a nice change of pace by delving into different aspects of the universe. There’s enough continuity and shared elements to keep viewers invested, including recurring themes centered around community.

“Pull List” feels like a pilot for an Mythic Quest spin-off

In the first episode, titled “Song and Dance,” the art director Phil (Derek Waters) from Mythic Quest is further explored as he navigates his complex work-life balance with Ian (Rob McElhenney) during a lavish vacation, delving deeper into his personal life. However, the second episode takes a different approach, disconnecting directly from these storylines. Instead, it focuses on several customers at Comics Galore!, a black-owned comic book store, as they eagerly anticipate the arrival of the latest Mythic Quest comic book issue. This issue contains a significant revelation about the first black character in the series.

Under the guidance of Mo Marable (direction) and Leann Bowen & Javier Scott (writing), the series “Pull List” delves into the rich tapestry of nerd culture as seen through a black perspective, highlighting underrepresented aspects of diversity. The show boasts a lively cast of genuinely portrayed characters, including a memorable guest spot by William Stanford Davis from “Abbott Elementary”. At times, it seems like a charming blend of “High Fidelity” and “Comic Book Men”.

Apart from an engaging central enigma, the episode showcases a unique aesthetic style that sets it apart from others. It blends Scott Pilgrim-style split screens, comic book motifs, and lively animated elements into the live-action sequences. With a talented cast, sharp humor, and a fresh perspective, “Pull List” has a pilot-like feel for a potential Mythic Quest spin-off. Keep an eye out!

“Fugue” is the biggest departure totally.

The third episode takes a significant shift in tone and topic compared to the initial series, focusing on a contemporary trend in entertainment – live orchestra soundtrack performances, specifically for the show “Mythic Quest.” We accompany a traveling group of musicians as they set off on a busy global tour.

In a turn of events, touring cellist Sylvie (Annamarie Kasper) fulfills her ambition and becomes part of the Mythic Quest ensemble. However, she encounters exhaustion and mounting stage anxiety. Reminiscent of the professional musician’s struggle between expectations and reality in Whiplash, “Fugue” offers a deeply moving character development, as Sylvie undergoes a painful identity crisis that tugs at the heartstrings.

This episode presents a significant change in mood compared to previous ones, leaning heavily towards the dramatic, which may not appeal to all viewers. In fact, some scenes can be quite challenging due to their growing intensity and disturbing imagery. However, it’s hard to ignore the talent showcased here, with an exceptional soundtrack, a deeply emotional portrayal by Annamarie Kasper in the lead role, and visually stunning representations of music.

“The Last Raid” is Side Quest’s MVP

Without a doubt, the fourth and concluding installment stands as the most impactful segment of the spin-off, skillfully wrapping up the series by offering a genuine, heartfelt, and poignant homage to the influence of community and online platforms on fostering human connections.

The Last Raid” seamlessly combines gameplay footage from an MMORPG and real-life video chat scenes, similar to Felicia Day’s show The Guild. This production masterfully integrates the charm and humor of Mythic Quest, set within a fitting virtual world and group dynamic. The narrative appears as a logical evolution from the initial series, where an assorted group of characters confront their toughest in-game adversaries, while offline friendships start to strain and unravel.

Individuals who have experience with role-playing games like World of Warcraft or Dungeons and Dragons will recognize the authenticity in this episode’s depiction of a typical gaming session. By focusing on voice acting to convey the action, the creators have made a daring yet fitting choice. This method shares similarities with documentaries such as Grand Theft Hamlet (based on GTA) and The Remarkable Life of Ibelin, both known for their emotional impact.

Is Side Quest worth watching?

In essence, the show “Side Quest” comprises just four episodes, giving it an uneven, sporadic flow that unfortunately makes it seem more like a supplementary expansion pack rather than a complete spin-off series. Nevertheless, the episodes “The Last Raid” and “Pull List” are exceptional gems that offer promise for potential future shows within this beloved universe.

All four episodes of Side Quest are streaming now on Apple TV+.

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2025-04-02 21:00