Raphael Bob-Waksberg Returns to Netflix with Animated Sitcom 'Long Story Short,' Tackling Grief and Jewish Identity

Five years after the critically acclaimed "BoJack Horseman" concluded its run, creator Raphael Bob-Waksberg is back on Netflix with "Long Story Short," an adult animated sitcom that delves into themes of grief, memory, and Jewish identity. The series, which premiered this month, utilizes a non-linear narrative structure to explore the Schwooper family's experiences with loss, particularly the deaths of their matriarch and, later, their mother. "Long Story Short" distinguishes itself from Bob-Waksberg's previous work with a more grounded and realistic portrayal of family dynamics and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

A Non-Linear Exploration of Grief and Memory

The series opens with the Schwooper family – Naomi (Lisa Edelstein), Elliot (Paul Reiser), and their children Avi (Ben Feldman), Shira (Abbi Jacobson), and Yoshi (Max Greenfield) – grieving the loss of Naomi's mother in the 1990s. Subsequent episodes reveal that the adult children are also mourning Naomi, who succumbed to COVID-19 in the early days of the pandemic. This non-linear approach, according to Bob-Waksberg, is intended to mirror the way memories are triggered and interconnected, particularly in the context of loss.

"I wanted it to feel like leafing through a family photo album," Bob-Waksberg told Variety. "Or when you remember something that makes you think of something else, which makes you think of something else, which makes you think of something else. It's not always chronological, the way you think about people, the way you think about your own family."

Drawing on Personal Experiences, Avoiding Autobiography

While Bob-Waksberg emphasizes that "Long Story Short" is not autobiographical, the series draws inspiration from his upbringing as an observant Jew in the San Francisco Bay Area. The show tackles Jewish themes with a level of earnestness and depth rarely seen in mainstream animation. One episode centers on Yom Kippur, offering a thoughtful exploration of atonement and spirituality. The character of Yoshi's journey into Orthodox Judaism is treated with respect, even as the family grapples with the implications of his decision.

Dr. Miriam Heller, a professor of Jewish Studies at the University of Southern California, notes that "Long Story Short" offers a nuanced portrayal of contemporary American Jewish life. "Unlike some representations that rely on stereotypes or caricature, this show presents a complex and relatable picture of a Jewish family navigating faith, tradition, and modernity," Heller stated. "It's a refreshing and welcome addition to the landscape of Jewish representation in media."

The Absence of Israel: A Deliberate Choice

One notable absence in "Long Story Short" is any direct mention of Israel or the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Bob-Waksberg acknowledged this omission in his interview with Variety, explaining that he deliberately chose to focus on other aspects of Jewish identity. He told Variety, "I wanted to focus on all the other things that being Jewish is."

This decision, while potentially controversial, reflects a broader trend in entertainment towards more cautious and nuanced portrayals of politically sensitive topics. According to media analyst Paul Dergarabedian, "In today's hyper-polarized environment, creators often face intense scrutiny and criticism for their handling of complex issues. Bob-Waksberg's choice to sidestep the issue of Israel may be a strategic one, aimed at avoiding unnecessary controversy and keeping the focus on the show's core themes."

A Departure in Visual Style

Bob-Waksberg collaborated with Lisa Hanawalt, his high school friend and the creator of "Tuca & Bertie," to develop the visual style of "Long Story Short." The show features a more realistic and subdued aesthetic compared to the surreal and often grotesque imagery of "BoJack Horseman" and "Tuca & Bertie." This stylistic shift reflects the more grounded and emotionally resonant themes of the series.

"Long Story Short" represents a significant evolution in Raphael Bob-Waksberg's career. While maintaining his signature wit and insightful social commentary, the show demonstrates a newfound sensitivity and willingness to explore complex emotional terrain. With its nuanced portrayal of grief, family, and Jewish identity, "Long Story Short" is poised to resonate with audiences seeking thoughtful and engaging adult animation.