Step into the whimsical world of ‘Bubble,’ where laughter and adventure collide in a satirical sci-fi odyssey like no other. As Jordan Morris and Jesse Thorn craft a tale of monster-killing misfits within the confines of Fairhaven’s protective bubble, listeners are transported on a journey of absurdity and delight. With its unique blend of humor and imagination, ‘Bubble’ captivates audiences, earning praise from critics and fans alike. As Jordan Morris aptly puts it, ‘Bubble is a wild ride through a world that’s simultaneously familiar and completely absurd.’ Embark on this comedic escapade and discover why ‘Bubble’ is a podcast phenomenon.
Podcast Review : Bubble
In the realm of scripted science fiction podcasts, “Bubble” emerges as a delightful yet quirky addition to the auditory landscape. Created by Jordan Morris and Jesse Thorn, and backed by the production prowess of Maximum Fun, this satirical odyssey invites listeners into the fantastical town of Fairhaven. Here, amidst a protective bubble encased in wilderness, protagonist Morgan embarks on a monster-slaying escapade with an unlikely band of companions, delivering an eight-episode saga infused with sitcom-style humor.
While “Bubble” garners praise for its addictive absurdity and cartoonish sound engineering, it’s not without its critique. Some listeners find the rapid-fire humor occasionally lacking in depth, as the barrage of jokes leaves little room for reflection. However, the podcast’s female voices, from the deadpan narration of Tavi Gevinson to the nuanced performances of Alison Becker and Eliza Skinner, offer moments of redemption in this whimsical journey through the bubbleverse. As “Bubble” continues to captivate audiences with its charm and satire, it poses intriguing questions about the future trajectory of audio fiction in the ever-evolving podcast landscape.
Background: Entering the Protective Bubble
At the heart of “Bubble” lies the town of Fairhaven, ensconced within a protective bubble amidst a wilderness teeming with monsters. Our protagonist, Morgan, hailing from beyond the bubble’s confines, finds herself embroiled in a monster-killing escapade alongside two unlikely companions. With a sitcom-style delivery, the podcast unfolds over eight episodes, offering a whimsical glimpse into this dystopian bubble.
Reception: A Symphony of Praise
Critics and audiences alike have showered “Bubble” with accolades. Becca James from BuzzFeed News describes it as “addictive as it is absurd,” while Laura Jane Standley and Eric McQuade of The Atlantic applaud its “appropriately cartoonish” sound engineering. Megh Wright from Vulture notes that the podcast “gets funnier the deeper you go,” earning its spot on Apple Podcasts’ best of 2018 list. Cory Doctrow of Boing Boing and Nicholas Quah of NiemanLab chime in with their praise, labeling the podcast as “hilarious” and “super zany,” respectively.
Adaptations: Expanding the Bubble Universe
Expanding beyond the auditory realm, “Bubble” has spawned a graphic novel adaptation. Penned by Jordan Morris and Sarah Morgan, with artistry by Tony Cliff, this 272-page journey delves deeper into the bubbleverse. Publishers Weekly lauds it as a “recklessly fun, hoot and holler of a ride,” while Caitlin Rosberg of The A.V. Club offers a nuanced critique. Nominated for a 2022 Eisner Award, the graphic novel catapults “Bubble” into new dimensions of storytelling.
Additionally, the podcast’s popularity has paved the way for an animated film adaptation by Sony Pictures Animation, with industry heavyweights Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg onboard as producers.
MaxFun: The Home of Creativity and Community
At the nexus of this creative whirlwind stands Maximum Fun, a pioneering podcast network spearheaded by Jesse Thorn. With a legacy tracing back to Thorn’s college radio show, The Sound of Young America, Maximum Fun has blossomed into a beacon of comedy and culture. Their commitment to fostering community engagement and supporting independent creators underscores their ethos of putting good into the world.
While “Bubble” basks in the glow of critical acclaim, it’s not immune to scrutiny. The podcast’s rapid-fire humor, while impressive in its breadth, occasionally falls short in depth. The incessant barrage of jokes, ranging from John Mayer jibes to suburban parenting satire, leaves little room for reflection or resonance. However, the podcast finds redemption in its female voices – from the deadpan narration of Tavi Gevinson to the nuanced performances of Alison Becker and Eliza Skinner.
Conclusion: A Bubble Waiting to Burst?
In the ever-evolving landscape of audio fiction, “Bubble” stands as a testament to the boundless imagination of its creators. While not devoid of flaws, its quirky charm and satirical flair have garnered a devoted following. As the podcast navigates the precarious balance between humor and substance, listeners find themselves pondering the future of audio storytelling. Will “Bubble” burst forth with newfound depth, or will it remain suspended in its whimsical realm? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain – the bubbleverse continues to expand, inviting audiences to embark on a journey of laughter and exploration.
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FAQs
Q1: What is the premise of the podcast “Bubble”?
A1: “Bubble” is a scripted science fiction podcast that centers around the town of Fairhaven, nestled within a protective bubble amidst a wilderness filled with monsters. The story follows protagonist Morgan and her companions as they navigate the gig economy of monster-killing.
Q2: Who are the creators of “Bubble”?
A2: “Bubble” was created by Jordan Morris and Jesse Thorn, with production by Maximum Fun.
Q3: What is the reception of “Bubble” among critics and audiences?
A3: Critics and audiences alike have praised “Bubble” for its addictive and absurd storytelling. It has been lauded for its cartoonish sound engineering and has earned a spot on Apple Podcasts’ best of 2018 list.
Q4: Has “Bubble” been adapted into other forms of media?
A4: Yes, “Bubble” has been adapted into a graphic novel published by First Second Books, with a screenplay adaptation in development by Sony Pictures Animation.
Q5: What is Maximum Fun, and how does it relate to “Bubble”?
A5: Maximum Fun is a podcast network known for its commitment to comedy and culture. It serves as the home for “Bubble” and many other shows, showcasing a diverse range of content.
Q6: What are some criticisms of “Bubble”?
A6: While “Bubble” has received praise for its humor and creativity, some critics note that its rapid-fire jokes occasionally lack depth. However, it has been commended for the performances of its female voice actors.
Q7: What can listeners expect from “Bubble”?
A7: Listeners can expect a satirical journey through a fantastical world filled with monsters, humor, and unexpected twists. The podcast offers a unique blend of comedy and science fiction storytelling.
Q8: How can I listen to “Bubble”?
A8: “Bubble” is available for streaming on various podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts.
Q9: Are there any plans for future seasons or episodes of “Bubble”?
A9: As of now, there have been no official announcements regarding future seasons or episodes of “Bubble.” However, fans can stay updated by following the podcast’s official channels and Maximum Fun’s announcements.
Q10: How can I get involved with Maximum Fun or support “Bubble”?
A10: If you’re interested in working with Maximum Fun or supporting “Bubble,” you can reach out to Maximum Fun via their website or social media channels. Additionally, supporting the podcast through subscriptions or sharing it with friends can help sustain its production.
About Author
The Podcasting Research Team is a dynamic and passionate group of young researchers who are dedicated to exploring the world of podcasting. Whether you’re a podcast creator, a marketer, or simply a curious listener, the work of The Podcasting Research Team can provide valuable insights into the trends and best practices in the podcasting world.
