/ 3 August 2001

Five of the best USTV animations

The Simpsons America’s favourite dysfunctional family. Jammed with cultural references, Matt Groening’s creation has maintained its high standards since 1989.

King of the Hill The brainchild of Beavis and Butthead creator Mike Judge. The suburban humdrum of Hank Hill and family is given droll treatment in an intelligent show.

Daria A cult success on both sides of the Atlantic. Precocious teen Daria dislikes her dim classmates, teachers and family. All fall prey to her acid wit.

South Park Forget the deliberately amateurish animation, the show’s outr humour can’t be ignored. At its best, South Park is deliciously subversive.

Futurama A hapless pizza delivery man, Philip Fry, is transported to the year 3000. Matt Groening’s follow-up to The Simpsons is similar in tone and visual style to the long-running hit.