By Chidi Ohia, Contributing Author
Don’t let its whimsical characters and bright colors fool you, this show is a dark comedy whose themes revolve around death, psychological horror, trauma, and existentialism. The Amazing Digital Circus (TADC) is a brand new, independent animated series that airs primarily on YouTube and Netflix. With over half a billion views across its three released episodes, and a frighteningly large fandom, it has quickly become one of the most popular series to date.
Brief Synopsis
TADC follows a group of human characters trapped in a cartoon world where they are forced to complete adventures for the amusement of their captor, all while said characters try to avoid their own mental health crises.
Existential Crises in TADC
In Episode 2, the main cast of characters go on an adventure to return a stolen truckload of maple syrup to the candy kingdom from a group of bandits called the “Gummy Gators”. Things go awry and our main character Pomni ends up alone with the leader of the Gummy Gators, Gummigoo. Yes, these are their real names. Through the two’s interactions, Gummigoo realizes that his entire identity, his love for his family, his friends, and his reason for being are not his, and that he isn’t real. He’s just an AI with a fake backstory specifically created to be a sympathetic antagonist for this adventure. After this realization, Gummigoo experiences an existential crisis, and feels that his whole existence is meaningless. Eventually, Pomni manages to cheer up Gummigoo and convinces him to return with her and the main cast, but as he does, he’s found by the host of the circus and deleted. The episode ends with Pomni coping with all that’s happened, and suffering through her grief at the loss of a friend.
Navigating existential crises with Teens and Adolescents
Though the themes of the show are mature, its target audiences are teens and young adults. Children in this age range often struggle with identity issues and begin to question their own purpose in life. Chances are that your child has either heard of or seen episodes of TADC, encountered its themes, and have some questions about what they’ve watched. Here are some simple ways to discuss the show’s themes and impact with your child:
Ask your child what decision they make at school feel the most important to them. Discuss these decisions you kid faces and offer advice where you can, if they are needed.
Ask your child what they feel the most important thing they do is. Kids these ages are faced with more complicated life choices than when younger. For instance, college decisions, friendship groups.
Ask them which of their choices are most or least significant and how this affects their views of self or the world. Offer words of advice or comfort where you can, if they are needed.
Explain to your child that existentialism is the idea of how people find their own purpose in life and what that could mean to them.
Reassure them of the excitement of choosing your own purpose rather than focusing on the potential overwhelming nature of it.
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