Ep 1. One Foot in the Grave

In "One Foot in the Grave," the first episode of Happy Tree Friends season 1, we are introduced to a group of cute and colorful animal friends living in a wooded area. But, as the show's warning at the beginning suggests, these adorable characters are not immune to the perils of life. In fact, their innocence is constantly contrasted with their gory and gruesome deaths.

The episode follows the misadventures of three of these creatures: Cuddles the rabbit, Giggles the chipmunk, and Toothy the beaver. The trio begins the day by playing a friendly game of jump rope, but things quickly go awry when Toothy accidentally slices Cuddles' ear off with a chainsaw (yes, you read that right).

The episode then takes a dark turn as we see each of the characters go through their own harrowing situations. Giggles gets her head stuck in the ground and is attacked by ants, Toothy gets electrocuted while trying to fix a toaster, and Cuddles suffers from a series of increasingly brutal injuries, leading him closer and closer to death's door. All the while, the other Happy Tree Friends continue with their seemingly cute and harmless activities, completely unaware of the carnage unfolding around them.

Despite the blood and violence of the episode, there is a certain level of absurd humor that permeates throughout. The animation style is also noteworthy, with the characters' exaggerated features and movements adding to the comedic effect. However, it is important to note that this is not a series for the faint of heart. The violence is graphic and over-the-top, making it clear that this is not a show intended for children.

Overall, "One Foot in the Grave" sets the tone for the rest of the series, introducing us to the world of Happy Tree Friends and its twisted sense of humor. While it may not be for everyone, those with a taste for dark comedy and a strong stomach are sure to find something to enjoy in this bizarre and brutal show.