SCRIPTS WITH A DOSE OF A MEDICAL PRESCRIPTION IN AFRICA: LOOKING AT THE CONSPIRACY GENRE IN AFRICAN ANIMATION THROUGH THE LENS OF ADULT SWIM'S LAZARUS AND COMMON SIDE EFFECTS



In recent years, African animation has been expanding beyond traditional tales and educational content, venturing into exciting new genres that blend science, suspense, and social commentary. 

However one of the places that seem to be rather untouched or even unexplored involve the of Conspiracy Theory STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics), which include stories that weave scientific concepts with mystery, government secrets, and philosophical questions.

Apart from the untouched aspects of the genre in African animation, the highlight and spotlight of the genre has been brought into focus in recent times, in hit shows like Lazarus and Common Side Effects which are leading this charge, captivating audiences with narratives that challenge perceptions and spark curiosity about science and society. 

Therefore, given that this genre has been put into focus, in this post, we’ll explore what makes conspiracy theory STEM animation unique, why it resonates with African audiences, and how it’s shaping the future of storytelling.

What is Conspiracy Theory STEM Animation?

Conspiracy theory STEM animation combines, cutting-edge scientific ideas (like genetics, artificial intelligence, or quantum physics), mysteries involving secret organizations, cover-ups, or hidden agendas and philosophical questions about reality, ethics, and human nature

This genre invites viewers to question official narratives and explore “what if” scenarios grounded in scientific plausibility.

Unlike traditional sci-fi or fantasy, when it comes to conspiracy theory STEM has a gritty, sometimes darker tone, playing with suspense and skepticism. It often features protagonists who are scientists, hackers, or whistleblowers unraveling hidden truths.

Why Does This Genre Matter in the African Context?

Let us shift the lens, for this genre. A lot of the times, when this genre props up, it is mostly thought about in the perspective of western science laboratories, and other aspects that happen outside Africa, however, a lot of science still exists in Africa, and what about all the things we see in the news that are talked about but not explored in African animation?

While a lot of Africa's countries are mostly still developing, it present both an ironical and debatable situation. 

Often for STEM people and also creatives jumping into this genre, they are questions that rise, such as, Africa having an abundance of resources to be worked with, but then again, there is the lack of resources to fully exploit the opportunity which presents itself to provide solutions. 

This eventually, provides a proper ground for African animation stories to explore the area, in terms of the questions, debates, discussions and answers that audiences seek to explore.

Therefore, with Africa’s rapid technological growth and complex political history create fertile ground for stories blending science and conspiracy. These include, 

- Technological leapfrogging: As African nations adopt new tech (mobile money, biotech, AI), questions about control, ethics, and access naturally arise.

- History of mistrust: Post-colonial experiences and contemporary political challenges fuel interest in stories about hidden power structures.

- Youth engagement: With a young population eager to engage with STEM, these stories make science exciting and relevant.

Animation provides a flexible medium to explore these themes visually and conceptually, reaching audiences who crave intellectually stimulating content.

Therefore, let us look at the two animated series that are bringing this genre into focus in the recent times, and are headlining a lot of streaming services, and how they are ways in which we can seen the genre shape out in African animation.

Case Study: Lazarus 

Science, Suspense, and Secrets

Lazarus is a groundbreaking Japanese animated series that follows a brilliant and world-renowned neuroscientist, Dr. Skinner, in utopian year of 2049, who discovers a miracle analgesic drug known as "Hapna" that completely relieves the user of any pain, shortly before disappearing on the face of the earth.

Three years later in October 2052, Dr. Skinner shows up to the public, to announce that the drug has a 3-year half life, and soon everyone who took it will die.

Below is the trailer.

Lazarus anime trailer

Key features include, realistic scientific concepts explained accessible, complex characters navigating ethical dilemmas and a tense, layered plot that keeps viewers guessing

Lazarus demonstrates how animation can handle mature, complex STEM themes while staying thrilling and engaging.

Case Study: Common Side Effects

Medicine, Mystery, and Morality

Common Side Effects is a hit American animated series that follows two former high school lab partners, who stumble upon a mushroom, that can heal almost anything, apart from the corporate interests of the DEA, big pharma and international business men. 

It explores the dark side of pharmaceutical research in the global pharmaceutical industry, which highlighting stories of medical experimentation, corruption, and resistance.

Below is the trailer.

Common Side Effects trailer

It blends, medical science and biotechnology, social justice and activism and psychological thriller elements

This show raises awareness about real-world issues through suspenseful storytelling, making science and ethics tangible.

The appeal of the genre and African animation: What draws audiences to Conspiracy Theory STEM Animation and how does it sit for African animation?

Let's bring this all back towards, African animation and Conspiracy theory STEM animation meet. It is good that the conspiracy genre in animation has grown and been able to reach audience, but why is it and also, what kind of pot does this stir for African animation stories?

Firstly, audiences are drawn by:

- Intellectual engagement: Complex plots that challenge viewers to think critically.

- Relatability: Stories grounded in African realities and concerns.

- Visual innovation: Creative animation techniques that visualize abstract scientific concepts.

- Escapism with depth: Suspenseful, high-stakes narratives that entertain and provoke.

Now, when it comes to Africa, the land may not be riddled with the famous conspiracies that people talk about but in the hidden aspects, they are a couple conspiracies that fill the African space of pharmacy, from vaccine and clinical  trials and funding that seemed with ulterior motives and diseases assumed to be dropped in Africa, for advancing corporate moves for more cash gain.

Below are articles from Al Jazeera and France 24 in 2020 that touches on some medical and pharmaceutical conspiracies.

Medical colonialism in Africa 

Bill Gates medical conspiracies through Africa

This genre fills a gap in African media, offering smart, sophisticated content beyond mainstream fare. It helps African animators have a chance to carry the torch for truth, debate and ultimately new voices being represented as well as, breaking ground for discussions.

Challenges and Opportunities

Despite the hype and rise of all of this, it does not go without having its challenges. As intriguing and engaging as conspiracies might be, the battle between truth, fair representation of both sides and a way in which unravelling of matters can be done in an unbiased matter is often at the fore front of ensuring that content can be consumed without causing ethical matters or debates.

In addition, the possibility of handling costs.

Challenges include:

- Balancing accuracy and drama: Making complex science understandable without oversimplifying.

- Funding and production costs: High-quality animation with scientific rigor requires investment.

- Audience education: Some viewers may find the themes dense or intimidating.

All is not doom and gloom, as some opportunities could arise. Some of these opportunities include:

- Collaborations with scientists and educators to enhance authenticity.

- Using animation as a gateway to STEM education.

- Engaging youth in discussions about ethics, technology, and society.


Looking Ahead: The Future of Conspiracy Theory STEM Animation in Africa

As African animation studios grow more ambitious, this genre could:

- Expand into interactive and VR formats for immersive experiences.

- Inspire a new generation of STEM professionals and storytellers.

- Influence global perceptions of African creativity and intellectual contribution.

By blending science with suspense, African animation is carving out a bold new path, one where curiosity and critical thinking lead the way.

Conclusion: More than just stories, and a call to question and Imagine

Conspiracy theory STEM animation isn’t just entertainment, it’s a catalyst for dialogue, pushing viewers to question, learn, and imagine futures shaped by science and society.

As Lazarus and Common Side Effects show us, African animation is ready to take on big ideas and tell stories that matter. What are some of the conspiracies you would like to see tackled in African animation stories? Let us know in the comments

 

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