In the latest season of Smiling Friends, the innovative Adult Swim animated series continues to showcase its unique blend of absurdity and dark themes. The third season’s fourth episode, titled “Curse of the Green Halloween Witch,” dives even deeper into this unconventional narrative, presenting an unsettling yet thrilling experience for viewers. The episode is marked by its surrealistic elements, combining elements of horror parody with a psychological decline, and introduces a surprising Easter egg that lends a nostalgic nod to horror gaming.
One of the episode’s standout moments occurs when the character Pim races through a shadowy corridor, confronting menacing figures that emerge from various doors. Among these horrors is Pyramid Head, the formidable executioner from the Silent Hill video game series. This brief yet significant cameo isn’t merely a fan service; it reflects a significant moment in Pim’s unraveling psyche. Notably, the show’s creators obtained official permission from Konami to feature Pyramid Head, making this appearance a rare event where the iconic character steps outside its original franchise.
The sequence unfolds as Pim navigates through the decaying hallway, culminating in a spine-chilling encounter with Pyramid Head. As Pim turns a corner, the imposing figure comes into view, wielding a massive blade while emitting a haunting screech that echoes through the space. Although the interaction lasts only a few seconds, it stands out as one of the most striking moments of the season, underscoring the show’s ability to craft unforgettable visuals.
The episode kicks off with the Smiling Friends team gearing up for a quiet Halloween evening, only for their plans to derail when a green-skinned witch asks for a dime. Despite Pim’s kindness in offering help, his friends dismiss her, unknowingly triggering a surreal curse that distorts their reality into a nightmarish landscape. As the episode progresses, chaos ensues, with characters experiencing bizarre transformations and horrifying visions. This descent into madness is effectively marked by Pim’s encounter with Pyramid Head, symbolizing the climax of his psychological collapse.
The unfolding narrative reveals that the chaos was a consequence of the witch’s curse, projected through a mystical crystal orb intended to demonstrate what could occur if her request is ignored. Fans can look forward to the next episode of Smiling Friends, titled “Pim and Charlie Save Mother Nature,” set to air exclusively on Adult Swim on November 9, 2025, at 8:30 PM PT/11:30 PM ET, with streaming available the following day on HBO Max.
With its creative storytelling and bold choices, Smiling Friends season 3 promises to continue captivating audiences. The show’s ability to incorporate cultural references, like the appearance of Pyramid Head, adds an exciting layer that enhances its narrative, allowing for both humor and existential contemplation. As viewers eagerly anticipate upcoming episodes, Smiling Friends remains a testament to the power of innovative animated comedy.