In this Netflix remake and sequel of the hit web series by Natasha Allegri, “Bee and Puppycat: Lazy in Space” recreates the warmth fans have come to love while continuing the stories of the show’s characters. This otherworldly ride brings together more aesthetic vibrance, and closure to some questions viewers have raised in the original web show.
As a refresher, the show reintroduces us to Bee (Allyn Rachel), a young adult in her 20s who’s been fired from every temp gig she’s had. After recently being laid off from her job, Bee offhandedly wishes to have a cat to take care of. The universe suddenly responds by beaming down an adorable creature into Bee’s hands. Unable to make out if the creature is a dog or cat, Bee calls it “Puppycat,” and it is now her new pet. Strangely enough, Puppycat (Vocaloid Oliver) speaks in a high-pitched computerized manner that seems only Bee can understand.
Unsure of how Bee will provide for herself and her new companion, Puppycat suggests a way for both of them to make some quick cash. Hitting his collar bell, Puppycat materializes a letter that transports him and Bee to a void wherein a massive computer-like bot named TempBot offers them jobs to do across several planets, starting their stellar escapades. Over the series, TempBot is voiced by a different voice actor per episode, including Marina Sirtis, Hannah Hart, Terri Hawkes, and even Natasha Allegri herself, among others.
Blasting off to a familiar yet new adventure
Similar to the original web series, the first few episodes set up the lore covering some of the characters in the show. This includes the story of the Space Outlaw (Steve Blum), who was betrayed by an unvoiced Space Princess. There’s also the subplot of discovering Bee’s identity as she doesn’t seem as human as she looks, as seen with her strange fear of water and unnatural strength when doing temp job tasks or battling hand-like creatures.
With the introduction of the young landlord, Cardamon (Alexander James Rodriguez), and his seemingly comatose mother, viewers become more hooked on the show. By doing good deeds, Cardamon finds a way to wake up his mother in a fairytale-like manner. He believes that doing good will allow him to become a prince, granting him a wish, hence wishing for his mother to awaken.
Several of the subplots in this second season are taken from the first and are developed further story-wise. Instead of being a repetitive remake, Netflix’s take on this remake-sequel allows familiarity and curiosity to blend into a narrative that enchants its viewers.
Crafting a cosmic narrative
The dynamic storytelling and world-building it offers makes both seasons of the show worth watching. One can note the allusions evident in episode one of Puppycat telling the story of the Space Outlaw. After his retelling, the tale’s character is visually reflected onto Puppycat himself which hints at his identity. There’s even the “Birthday” episode in which Bee powers up her dad’s old arcade by kissing it, which generates a spark to power the entire building—tying it back to the question of Bee’s identity as well.
The characters don’t have to say much to reveal crucial plot points and grab viewers' attention. Many allusions are used throughout the series, prompting viewers to pay further attention to every moment and experience a character goes through in each episode.
Spacewalking through adulthood
With the show intended for older audiences, its themes cover the struggles of adulthood. Many young people struggle at first, just like Bee, who is in her 20s. Moreover, there’s the topic of moving forward, as seen in Puppycat’s struggles with his past. We also learn of Deckard’s (Kent Osborne) hurdles in pursuing culinary school as he lacks self-confidence and worries about his abilities.
The absurd universe of the series is just the surface of the relatable experiences one can pick up from its characters. It’s comforting to see these experiences of young adults on screen as it reminds us we aren’t alone. It reminds us that the challenges we face each day while “adulting” are valid, and we’ll eventually get through them.
Heavenly visuals and music
Visually, “Bee and Puppycat: Lazy in Space” offers a more aesthetically-pleasing experience that the web series lacked. Colors are more vibrant yet still true to the art direction intended for the series. Artists who worked on the series created specific palettes used for each planet, such as the saturated hues of Racetrack Planet to the soft pastels seen in Cat Head Planet.
Audio-wise, watching the show feels like being immersed in a video game. The score and soundtrack range from lo-fi loops to 8-bit beats fit well with the celestial setting of the show. It’s comfy and relaxing enough that one can put on the show and watch it while doing work.
Flying through the asteroid belt
While this Netflix remake of the series has done some justice, there are still a few points where this season has missed the mark.
One such fatality was condensing some episodes of the web series into one episode in the Netflix series, such as episode two of the second season being a compilation of elements from the web episodes "Farmer," "Beach," and "Cats," among others. Doing this prevents new fans of the show from wholly appreciating each slice-of-life moment given by the series.
Furthermore, there’s a slight lack of charm in this remake-sequel, as initially seen in the web series. Iconic deadpan lines from the series are modified in the remake, which takes away from the characters’ individuality. Bee’s straightforwardness as seen in her line “I’m such a loser,” is less emphasized with its remade version, “I guess I feel like a loser?” Likened by that, when Cardamon’s mom is revealed to be bedridden, it was much lighter than the original web series, which was more emotionally impactful.
This follow-up of the hit web series still brings a lot of wonder and fun for longtime fans and new ones. It still has that sense of maturity while interplaying with the beloved characters' comedic slice-of-life experiences and struggles.
Additionally, “Bee and Puppycat: Lazy in Space” serves engaging narratives that expand the lore established in the web series. All of these elements are certain to pique the interest of any curious viewer.
While the show's finale seems to leave the door open for future stories, one can hope that we’d be returning to the stars to see Bee and Puppycat’s adventures again soon.
For now, buckle up your seatbelts and tune into the out-of-this-world stories of “Bee and Puppycat: Lazy in Space,” streaming only on Netflix.
