This show’s theme song says it best: “Way, way back in the 1980s, secret government employees dug up famous guys and ladies and made amusing genetic copies.” Clone High follows the teenage clones of Abraham Lincoln (Will Forte), Gandhi (Michael McDonald), and Joan of Arc (Nicole Sullivan) as they live their caricature of an American prime-time teen drama lives. Other notable figures are heavily featured including clones of JFK (Christopher Miller) and Cleopatra (Christa Miller). Principal Scudworth (Phil Lord) controls the school, hired to observe and protect the clones by a mysterious Board of Shadowy Figures.
They plan to somehow use these clones as super soldiers in an attempt to overthrow world leaders and form a new world order. The clones are unaware of this plot and spend their time attending beer parties, awkwardly dating, and trying to lose their virginity. Many notable celebrities make guest appearances as the clones explore teenage angst and common issues that arise in teens’ lives.
A lot of comedic content from this era hasn’t aged very well. Clone High has avoided most of the pitfalls of the 90s and 00s by mocking common media portrayals instead of people or groups. Many jokes hold up even if viewers are unaware of early 00s celebrities. The characters are ridiculous and charming, each playing out a specific teen drama trope (Abe as the dweeb, Joan as the pining friend, JFK as the jock, etc.). The voice acting is out of this world: The main cast does an outstanding job and many famous actors and musicians lend their voices for cameos or episodes.
Special episodes, including a short rock opera with guest star Jack Black, are common fare for Clone High. This short-lived MTV animation from 2002 has enjoyed status as a cult classic since its release (and canceled just a year later). Rumblings of a second season have been recently confirmed by HBO Max, so requests for this series may be ticking up as soon as next spring. If your patrons love adult animation, consider adding Clone High to your collection. Highly Recommended.
Where does this title belong on public library shelves?
Clone High belongs on adult animation shelves. Consider placing it next to animated and live-action comedy series.