‘My 2 Cents’ (2026) Netflix Series Review - A Soulful and Complicated Reflection of Adulthood

Handling adulthood isn’t easy in any way. And through this animation, Italian animator Zerocalcare has shown us the same. The plot revolves around Zero and his friend Wild Bear, who struggle to keep their small bar alive and running. With mounting misunderstandings and financial troubles, things are getting out of hand. But even with all this, there is another thing that surrounds Zero- loneliness that has crept in in adulthood. Zero continues to voice the other characters this time, too, a way of showing his version of themselves. He begins by showing how video games consumed him, and of course, there is no doubt that they contributed to him being socially awkward as ever. For Zero, he has understood that adulthood is more like a low blow panic and not some catastrophe that has taken place.

What makes “My Two Cents” stand out is how it manages to elicit laughter while also making you feel sad. One scene will have you laughing a lot, and then the next will make you feel sad. That contrast is something you will get to see all through the run time. Zero’s character development is significant right from the start to the end. For many adults, it will feel like a mirror of themselves watching. The chaos he undergoes in his life feels relatable. That is an amazing aspect that “My Two Cents” discusses. Even though it relies a lot on humour, some deep topics such as social anxiety, loneliness, a failing business, etc., have all been discussed and depicted well.

But even with all this, let me warn you, some of the viewers might not be able to understand “My Two Cents” in one go of watching. It took some time for me, too, to sit and figure out what exactly was happening. Perhaps that is the storytelling way that Zerocalcare follows. For example, I still don’t know why he used a chicken to depict Zero’s mother. Whatever the reason, if you are interested in watching it, then I suggest you brace for the uncertain pacing and a different kind of storytelling that comes your way. However, once you get the hang of what they are trying to tell, you will actually understand the depth of the whole series. That is when you understand that it is a reflection of what many adults undergo in real life.

Visually, “My Two Cents” is a great watch. The animation is good, especially the expressions used by Zero’s character. A sense of anxiety is always visible on his face, all in all, which is what his character is all about. Those expressions support the storytelling that Zerocalcare tries to tell us. The colors used also make the entire viewing experience worth watching. The series is a deeply personal project, from what it appears to be. Past figures returning while trying to figure out adulthood is what makes the entire plot worth at least a watch. So overall, I would recommend watching the show, mainly for the plot and the simplicity it tries to offer.

Final Score- [7/10]
Reviewed by - Neerja Ch
Follow @NeerjaCH on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times