Adult animation

Animated films, television series, and web series in this medium could be considered adult for any number of reasons, which include the incorporation of dark humor, violence, adult humor, mature themes, shock value, toilet humour, nudity, sexual content (either explicit or suggestive), profanity, political themes, or other thematic elements inappropriate for children and/or younger viewers. Works may explore philosophical, political, satirical, or social issues.^[1] Some animated productions are noted for their complex and/or experimental storytelling and animation techniques; the latter with many distinct styles.^[1]

Many working in animation feel that the public perception is that animation is either a genre for children or a sitcom for adults. The expression, “Animation is a Medium Not a Genre” has become a way to advocate for more variety in animated projects with compelling mature stories and intricate artistry. Creators and young adult audiences crave narratively sophisticated animated shows with a commitment to aesthetics and complex mature themes.^[2] Series like Primal, Arcane, Love Death and Robots, Hazbin Hotel, Scavengers Reign, Blue Eye-Samurai, and Invincible showcase the narrative potential of adult animation. Some critics have called this artistic evolution the "Adult Animation Boom"^[3] or the "Adult Animation Revolution."

Adult animation is typically defined as animation that is aimed at an adult audience.^[4][5][6][7] It is described as animation that has adult humor, themes, situations, and/or "explicit language" that adults, and often teens, are more likely to understand or relate to.^[8][9][10] It can come in various genres,^{[11][12][13][14]} but sitcoms and other comedies are the most common.^[15] On television, such animations often run in the evening, but they are not generally pornographic or obscene.^[16][17] AdWeek called adult animation "animated projects aimed at grown-ups, not kids."^[18] They also focus on issues that adults handle,^[19] and often use irreverent humor "that has no limits—bouncing between funny and offensive" while evoking a "balance of reality and fantasy." They may also contain violence or sexual themes.^[20][21]