In the animated sci-fi comedy “The Second Best Hospital in the Galaxy,” created by Cirocco Dunlap, we follow the adventures of Dr. Sleech and Dr. Klak, two intergalactically renowned surgeons who happen to be aliens and best friends. Season One throws them into a whirlwind of bizarre medical cases, from anxiety-eating parasites to illegal time loops and deep-space STIs, all while navigating their own personal struggles.
What sets this series apart is its complete lack of human characters, immersing viewers directly into an alien world without any familiar touchstones. Klak (voiced by Keke Palmer) and Sleech (voiced by Stephanie Hsu) tackle a variety of medical emergencies with creativity and humor, navigating through each challenge with their underground cartoonist charm.
While the show delivers plenty of laughs and creative medical scenarios, it also delves into deeper themes, particularly surrounding mental health. Klak’s struggles with anxiety and familial expectations are juxtaposed with Sleech’s single-minded focus on her career, leading to compelling character dynamics and emotional depth.
The series also weaves in a larger narrative arc involving a deadly parasite that feeds off anxiety, raising ethical questions about the pursuit of a “cure.” As Klak and Sleech navigate their professional and personal lives, they encounter a colorful cast of supporting characters, including the empathetic Plowp (voiced by Kieran Culkin) and the ambitious intern Vlam (voiced by Maya Rudolph).
Despite occasional critiques of its host platform, the show manages to deliver a satisfying blend of humor, creativity, and emotional resonance. With a second season already greenlit, “The Second Best Hospital in the Galaxy” promises to further explore its richly imagined world and continue delivering compelling stories that will resonate with fans of adult animation.
