“Human Resources” Review

Story posted March 28, 2022 in

Fans of Netflix’s “Big Mouth” are in luck as the same creative team behind the hit animated series put out the first season of the spin-off series “Human Resources.”

Rather than focusing on the pubescent tweens of “Big Mouth'', “Human Resources” centers around the different creatures that control different feelings and aspects of human beings.

Much of “Big Mouth’s” popularity can be attributed to the raunchy humor provided by the hormone monsters. The addition of other creatures like Tito, the anxiety mosquito, depression Kitty, lovebugs and more.

“Human Resources” was hinted at in the finale of “Big Mouth” season five, and the office building that these creatures work at has been slightly featured throughout the series.

While “Human Resources” still has the same vulgar and meta-humor as its predecessor, shifting the setting away from a middle school and into an office building opens more opportunities for the writers.

The show even called itself out in the first episode, saying that they sold the show as “Big Mouth meets''The Office.” Comparisons can also be drawn to “Inside Out,” but despite the clear parallels between these other projects, “Human Resources” manages to be rather distinctive.

“Human Resources” started somewhat slowly. While many of the characters were featured in “Big Mouth” to some capacity, shifting these creatures to main characters was rather difficult to get used to.

Once the characters were firmly established and compelling, the show became addicting. It is a true testament to the writers that they were able to create compelling characters that also had to be truthful to the creature they are.

For instance, there are three different Love Bugs, and while they all have similar instincts and energy, they are three other characters that bring something else to the table.

Meanwhile, Pete, the Logic Rock, has legitimate emotions and feelings even though he is driven by logic. Giving depth to characters with such intense defining characteristics is impressive and was done exceptionally well.

“Human Resources” is genuinely a character-driven show that was able to create an ensemble of compelling characters by the end of the season.

Similar to “Big Mouth,” “Human Resources” has a cast stacked with some great comedic performances.

There were new additions to the “Big Mouth” cinematic universe (in theory, a thing now) like Aidy Bryant as Emmy a lovebug and Randall Park as Pete the Logic Rock. Both are known for their comedic skills and can utilize them well this season.

Maya Rudolph returned to her award-winning role as Connie the Hormone Monstress and was hilarious as ever.

Nick Kroll (creator of the series) also returned to voice many characters, notably Maury the Hormone Monster. Kroll’s versatility as a voice actor is extremely impressive, and while he may not voice as many characters as he does in “Big Mouth,” it’s still remarkable.

The only real issue with “Human Resources” is the slow start and sometimes struggles from juggling too many storylines in an episode. The episodes drastically improved once the characters and their dynamics became better established.

“Human Resources” has legitimate longevity as the office-based sitcom balanced its crass humor with earnest storylines. Not only does it have captivating characters from which viewers want to see more, but its premise allows the show to become more profound than an average sitcom.

This show can separate itself from other workplace sitcoms due to its mythical nature. The commentary this series has on humanity is sincere and honest.

Watching a Logic Rock be beguiled by an Addiction Angel illustrates how many people become addicts. It also offers up a surplus of hilarious moments without being insensitive.

“Human Resources” toes the line of providing commentary on humanity without coming across as too preachy. This balance makes the show unique, whether it’s from jokes within the more moving scenes or a C plot featuring chaotic comedy.

Comparing “Human Resources” with “Big Mouth” isn’t fair considering “Big Mouth” is five seasons in, and “Human Resources” only has one. However, it is evident that “Human Resources” has the potential to become as beloved as “Big Mouth” if not more.

It’s like comparing “The Office” to “Parks and Rec.” Both shows are created/written by a similar group resembling the same sense of humor. However, both these shows have different themes and end goals. Both are great series but one being better than the other is likely up to personal preference.

Any fans of “Big Mouth” will decidedly love “Human Resources,” but it is its show and doesn’t require a watch of its predecessor to enjoy.

It will be exciting to see what the future holds for “Human Resources,” but it has made a great initial impression with its first season.

Rating: 4/5 stars

Sophia D’Ovidio is a first-year majoring in communications. To contact her email sgd5184@psu.edu.