“The Terrors of Jordan Mendoza,” a new sketch comedy series created by Filipino American comedian Jordan Mendoza, recently debuted on Adult Swim. The show presents a blend of surreal horror and dark humor, drawing comparisons to works by David Lynch and Luis Buñuel, with a tone that oscillates between unsettling and comedic.
Mendoza serves as the show’s star, director, and co-writer alongside David Machajewski. The series consists of thirteen 11-minute episodes, with eight having been released for review. The creator has said that many of the show’s storylines arise from nightmares and dream logic, lending the series an otherworldly and sometimes disjointed feel that is nonetheless more cohesive and inventive than typical dream narratives.
Each episode features sketches that explore central, often bizarre concepts from multiple angles. Recurring themes include a therapist fixated on the fast-food chain Wendy’s, Batman grappling with adult ADHD based on an online quiz, and a prisoner sentenced to “15 hugs and kisses” from a judge instead of conventional punishment. Other sketches present an unusual mix of humor and macabre elements—such as a bank robber demanding to transform into “a famous snake” while holding hostages, or Mendoza’s character being pursued by middle-aged men who awkwardly reveal their spouses are Asian, reflecting personal experiences.
The series is noted for its deadpan delivery, which intensifies both comedic and disturbing moments. For instance, one vignette features Mendoza’s character, convinced he is a Harry Potter wizard, repeatedly running into a brick wall believing he can pass through it, a scene that combines absurd physical comedy with poignant absurdity.
Mendoza, in his mid-30s, has a background that includes writing for the television comedy “Dave” and acting in alternative comedy films like “Problemista” and “Fantasma.” His connections have attracted a well-known ensemble of guest performers to the project, many of whom are established figures in comedy and television. Notable guest appearances include Martha Kelly, Kate Berlant, Chris Parnell, Randall Park, Wanda Sykes, Thomas Lennon, Clea DuVall, Lake Bell, Toby Huss, Mark Maron, Fred Armisen, and Gregg Turkington.
The range of guest roles is diverse, with Kelly portraying characters such as a masseuse who externalizes clients’ pain and a woman attending a confirmation class to investigate where Jesus might be “lodging” upon his return. Berlant’s sketch involves a clandestine poetry slam hidden from a fictionalized “Slammers Union,” adding another layer of offbeat humor.
“The Terrors of Jordan Mendoza” embraces a distinctively strange and often unsettling style that may not appeal to all viewers but offers a fresh and inventive approach for fans of alternative comedy. The show’s strong production values, assured performances, and commitment to the surreal nature of its material mark it as a standout debut on Adult Swim.