Light Hearted Toon

“When it comes to Flash-animated comedy, does the scenario of a depressed Swedish playwright and a happy lil’ blob of lighter-than-air gas come to mind? If so, then have we got the cartoon for you: Strindberg and Helium.

Creators Eun-Ha Paek (artist/animator) and James Bewley (who voices Strindberg) met in San Francisco and decided to collaborate. Thus came Strindberg and Helium, which James says utilizes “pretty basic comedy building blocks – the odd couple.”

And, yes, they certainly are odd, which is what makes the cartoon singularly funny. As Strindberg rants about his depressed state, Helium manages to burble out half-formed words with oblivious joy. And what, exactly, is Helium?

“I’m sure everybody has their own take, but for me he’s an emissary of a spiritual force of happiness,” said James.There you go!

You can decide for yourself at www.strindbergandhelium.com.

Also, visit http://milkyelephant.com while you’re at it.”