English Dub Season Review: Tear Along the Dotted Line Season One

Tear Along the Dotted Line is an original animated comedy bringing to life the existential angst of real-world Italian comic artist Zerocalcare (Zero). The celebrated cartoonist has brought his popular graphic novels to Netflix as the writer and director while performing as himself. The six-episode first season is celebrating a worldwide release available in six languages, including its original Italian. But if Squid Games has taught us anything, it is to never underestimate foreign content.

The series operates in a unique formula. Each 15–20-minute episode features multiple vignettes of the artist narrating his life and thoughts. The individual stories can span the creator’s life as a child to his mid-30 present-day self. Subsequently, the mindful memories are generationally relatable for the millennial. Conflicts the main character faces are the same simple obstacles we all face, whether that be meeting girls, finding a job, or changing a flat tire. Meanwhile, modern first-world problems such as finding something to watch on Netflix can be just as daunting for the cynical lead.

At the core of the series is this struggling artist facing an existential crisis. Amongst the everyday jargon, Zero faces some of life’s biggest questions. Dreams, goals, the consequences of free will, and purpose are common themes. However, the comedic tone helps smooth out the heavy themes by including elaborate rants, parodies, and characterizations.

It is hard to keep hold of emotions throughout the series. In one moment, you will be cracking up listening to the no-bullshit armadillo that represents the consciousness of the primary characters. The next moment, life seems bleak and meaningless as Zero explains how pointless life can be. Finally, prepare for tears as this silly cartoon about life, the universe, and everything, becomes sincere and sensitive.

The final vignette of each of the sixth episodes continues the ongoing story of a particularly bad day for Zero. A flat tire and a cold train seem meaningless when the cartoonist must face a significant loss. Worst still is the blame and guilt that Zero must face when he realizes the consequences of his actions.

Magically and thoughtfully, the last episode brings the entire season together by putting the pieces together. Akin to the 2000 film High Fidelity, Zero spends the span of the series reviewing his own life, mistakes, and failures. The way this story concludes is a surprisingly far contrast to the dry comedic tone that the series introduces early.

Far more than a cynical and narcissistic comedy, Tear Along the Dotted Line is more depth than expected at first glance. The title itself is a metaphor for flowing through life in a precut and established direction. Not your average animated sitcom; this series can be thought-provoking and inspiring. Meanwhile, there are plenty of laughable moments and generational commentary to move the story forward.

Tear Along the Dotted Line is highly unique to other similar programs on Netflix. The season can be consumed in a smooth hour-and-a-half and is worth watching for anyone desiring something a little different. Though a warning may be necessary for those already facing depression, this series could likely make you feel more miserable.