Among the long-standing original series on Apple TV+, workplace comedy Mythic Quest stands tall alongside titles like Slow Horses and For All Mankind. As the fourth season wraps up, fans are in for an exciting new treat: the spin-off anthology series Side Quest. This show delves deeper into the enriching Mythic Quest universe, examining the experiences of players, employees, and devoted fans of the multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG).
The creative minds behind Mythic Quest, including Charlie Day, Megan Ganz, and Rob McElhenney, have a knack for producing standalone episodes. Season one’s standout installment, “Dark Quiet Death,”featuring Jake Johnson and Cristin Milioti, set a high bar, and season two’s “Backstory!” is a worthy follow-up. Given this backdrop, fans were eager to see whether the first spin-off series could capture similar heights of storytelling and creativity.
While Side Quest doesn’t quite match the profound impact of the original episodes, the series does offer a refreshing detour from the familiar headquarters of Mythic Quest. It successfully retains enough core themes and character connections to engage existing fans while exploring new narrative territories.
“Pull List” Sets the Stage for Future Spin-offs
The season opener, “Song and Dance,” presents a sweet yet forgettable introduction, showcasing the personal life of Mythic Quest Art Director Phil, portrayed by Derek Waters. The storyline takes him on a luxury holiday where he juggles a vacation lifestyle with the demands of Ian, played by Rob McElhenney. The second episode, “Pull List,” shifts gears considerably, taking place in a vibrant black-owned comic book store, Comics Galore!.
Focusing on a diverse range of customers eagerly awaiting their latest Mythic Quest tie-in comic, this episode is notable for its rich character interplay and witty observations. It also introduces a significant narrative moment revealing the first black character in the series. Featuring a memorable cast, including a guest appearance from William Stanford Davis of Abbott Elementary, “Pull List” brilliantly merges elements of High Fidelity and Comic Book Men.
Visually distinctive, this episode employs techniques reminiscent of Scott Pilgrim, such as split screens and comic-style overlays, providing an invigorating palate cleanser within the anthology. Its engaging plot and character-driven humor make “Pull List” feel like a soft launch for a prospective spin-off.
“Fugue” Represents a Bold Thematic Shift
Characterized by its dramatic depth, the third installment, “Fugue,” offers a significant divergence from the series’ usual tone. Set against the backdrop of the growing trend of soundtrack concerts in the entertainment industry, it follows the journey of concert cellist Sylvie (Annamarie Kasper) as she joins the touring company and grapples with the pressures of performance.
This episode delves into themes of anxiety and identity crisis, drawing parallels with movies like Whiplash. While its heavier tone may not resonate with all viewers, “Fugue” showcases striking artistic achievement and a moving lead performance, augmented by a powerful musical score.
“The Last Raid” Emerges as the Standout Episode
The fourth and final episode, “The Last Raid,” is undoubtedly the most compelling chapter of the series, presenting a heartfelt tribute to community and connection within the digital landscape. By blending in-game MMORPG footage with video chat interactions, reminiscent of Felicia Day’s The Guild, this episode encapsulates the essence of Mythic Quest’s blend of humor and heart.
As we follow a long-established raid group’s avatars during a climactic in-game battle, the narrative poignantly illustrates how the dynamics of friendship can shift in real life. Gamers familiar with titles like World of Warcraft or tabletop sessions of Dungeons & Dragons will appreciate the authentic portrayal of gaming culture. The innovative use of voice performance adds another layer, echoing concepts seen in documentaries like Grand Theft Hamlet and The Remarkable Life of Ibelin.
Is Side Quest Worth the Watch?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0D2IT2qPA7A
In conclusion, while Side Quest consists of only four episodes and presents an uneven narrative approach, it shines with standout offerings like “The Last Raid” and “Pull List.” These episodes hold promise for potential future entries in this beloved universe. All four episodes of Side Quest are currently available for streaming on Apple TV+.