AlongsideSlow HorsesandFor All Mankind,Apple TV+workplace comedyMythic Questis one of the streaming services' longest-running shows - and undoubtedly one of its funniest. With the fourth series recently coming to a close, fans of the sitcom exploring the inner workings of the fictional video game company haven’t had long to wait for the next installment, with the new spin-off anthology seriesSide Questfurther exploring theMythic Questuniversethrough the lens of players, employees and fans of the multiplayer online role-playing game.
Mythic Questcreators Charlie Day, Megan Ganz, and Rob McElhenneycertainly aren’t strangers when it comes to standalone episodes, with season one’s excellent “Dark Quiet Death” - starringJake Johnson and Cristin Milioti - kick-starting the seasonal standalone tradition. While the first standalone installment is unquestionably the best and most impactful, season 2’s “Backstory!” comes a close second, so it’s understandable that the creative team decided to go in the same direction for their first spin-off series. But doesSide Questlive up tothe same lofty heights of the first two self-contained episodes?
Well, to put it frankly, none of the four spin-off episodes are of the same quality and depth as the aforementionedMythic Questepisodes. However, it is refreshing to step outside theMythic Questheadquarters to further explore other corners of the universe, with just enough connective tissue and familiar community-based themes to keep fans engaged.
“Pull List” feels like a pilot for an Mythic Quest spin-off
While the sweet-but-forgettable season opener “Song and Dance” delves deeper into the personal life ofMythic Questart director Phil (Derek Waters) as he juggles his tricky work-life balance with the ever-demanding Ian (Rob McElhenney) whilst on a luxury holiday, the second episode refreshingly steps away from any direct ties. Set in the black-owned comic book store Comics Galore!, the promising installment spotlights a variety of customers as they await the delivery of the latestMythic Questtie-in comic issue, which features a major reveal involving the first black character of the series.
Directed by Mo Marable and written by Leann Bowen and Javier Scott, “Pull List” explores the varied intersections of nerd culture through a black lens, while spotlighting key issues relating to diversity which aren’t often explored. Featuring an electric array of authentically crafted regulars - includinga welcome appearance byAbbott Elementary’s William Stanford Davis- who often bickers over who’s the biggest nerd, this installment feels like an endearing crossover betweenHigh FidelityandComic Book Men.
Along with a fun central mystery, the episode also features a distinct visual identity from the other episodes, incorporatingScott Pilgrim-esque split screens, comic book panel effects and fun animated overlays into the real-world action. With a strong cast, witty comedic script and a distinct angle, “Pull List” genuinely feels like a backdoor pilot or soft launch for a whole otherMythic Questspin-off - watch this space!
“Fugue” is the biggest departure totally.
The third episode marks thegreatest pivot from the original series tonally and thematically, as the installment centers on a growing trend in the gaming, film and TV industry - soundtrack concerts with full orchestras. In this case, the music ofMythic Questin concert, as we follow a touring company as they embark on a packed worldwide schedule.
Concert cellist Sylvie (Annamarie Kasper) achieves her dream and joins theMythic Questtouring company, but soon experiences burn out and a growing anxiety on stage. Thematically similar to the expectations vs. the reality of being a professional musician inWhiplash,“Fugue” features a particularly empathetic character arc, with Sylvie experiencing a particularly heartbreaking case of identity crisis.
The episode is undeniably a drastic shift in tone from the other episodes, with a far more dramatic lean, so it certainly won’t be to everyone’s taste. (Plus, the increasingly grim abscess/hallucination makes for a tough watch at times!) However, there’s no denying the artistry on display, with a particularly excellent score, a moving central performance from Annamarie Kasper and a beautiful visual representation of music.
“The Last Raid” is Side Quest’s MVP
The fourth and final episode is undoubtedly the show’s strongest chapter, rounding the spin-off series out with an authentic, relatable and touching tribute to the power of community and digital spaces in connecting people.
Using a mix of in-game footage from an MMORPG and screen capture from the character’s video chat mode - à la Felicia Day’s web seriesThe Guild -“The Last Raid”embodies the perfect blend ofMythic Quest’s heart and humorin an accurate setting and group dynamic. The concept feels like a natural progression from the original series, as we witness a long-running raid group’s eclectic avatars face their biggest foes yet in-game, while friendships begin to come apart IRL.
Anyone who’s playedWorld of WarcraftorDungeons and Dragonscampaigns can attest to how accurately this episode portrays a typical gaming session. Watching the drama unfold via the game (relying heavily on voice performance) is also a bold but perfect move, with a creative concept similar to theGTAdocumentaryGrand Theft Hamletand the incredibly movingThe Remarkable Life of Ibelin.
Is Side Quest worth watching?
With only four episodes in total and a somewhat inconsistent scatter-gun approach,Side Questunfortunately feels more like a DLC expansion pack than a full-blown spin-off. However, “The Last Raid” and “Pull List” are genuinely excellent installments which could hopefully lead to further shows set in the much-loved universe.
