-
Hey, guest user. Hope you're enjoying NeoGAF! Have you considered registering for an account? Come join us and add your take to the daily discourse.
The Simpsons |OT2| It's a pornography thread- We were posting pornography
- Thread starter AniHawk
- Start date
Nerdkiller
Membeur
So wait, when's Toad going to do the rest of the Christmas episodes?
Right now. Alll of them.
_____________________________________________________________
SHE OF LITTLE FAITH
Over time, one thing I've realized is that 50's movies parodies are the new universal joke, edging out such standbys like chicken crossing the road and those clowns in congress. Haha. What a bunch of clowns.
I laugh, but I'd make a snide comment like that too if I was in his situation. Funny how nerdom remains somewhat stable in it's pop culture appearances over the years.
...I guess Marge has some inner demons to work out.
It's a fun start, but it doesn't flow as well into the other segments as others did. This is a common point of the era, but for whatever reason I noticed it here.
ACT 1: 7/10
It's all too common of a joke with Kearny. But when you stop to think of it, his life is really pitiable. Not so much of being a teen dad (I've known many who can handle it just fine), but how he just can't pass 6th grade. But then again, seeing as how we never see a Springfield Middle School, maybe Elementary is just a name.
This is a very important episode for Lisa, and seeing her adapt to a MegaChurch like this and how it tests her morals is a good study on her character at this point. Mind you, she'll eventually campaign every cause under the sun, so these all become meaningless, but it's nice to see what she values most of all.
The show had a bizarre thing with Dominos at this point. There was this, the parade balloon and the sponsorship done with Aussie channels. Is the Homer approval so coveted that people go in multiple times over?
Bullshit. CBG would be a Jedist or one of those Flying Spaghetti Monster Witnesses before he'd be a Catholic.
ACT 2: 8/10
I have to thank the show for exposing me to so many famous film scenes without actually watching the entire film. It's like an abridged series for the entirety of film.
Can we get more deep cut merchandise like this? Enough of KidRobot figures of whatever disguises are popular this week, we want barking angels, dammnit!
The whole family feels super skeevy this episode. It's an understandable dilemma, but it doesn't stop them from looking any less like assholes.
I'm honestly glad this status quo stuck. Springfield is not the most diverse place around. Not South Park levels, but still homogenized. So to have someone in the main cast make a change like this and have it stick is very welcome.
ACT 3:7/10
TOTAL: 7/10
_____________________________________________________________
SHE OF LITTLE FAITH
Over time, one thing I've realized is that 50's movies parodies are the new universal joke, edging out such standbys like chicken crossing the road and those clowns in congress. Haha. What a bunch of clowns.
I laugh, but I'd make a snide comment like that too if I was in his situation. Funny how nerdom remains somewhat stable in it's pop culture appearances over the years.
...I guess Marge has some inner demons to work out.
It's a fun start, but it doesn't flow as well into the other segments as others did. This is a common point of the era, but for whatever reason I noticed it here.
ACT 1: 7/10
It's all too common of a joke with Kearny. But when you stop to think of it, his life is really pitiable. Not so much of being a teen dad (I've known many who can handle it just fine), but how he just can't pass 6th grade. But then again, seeing as how we never see a Springfield Middle School, maybe Elementary is just a name.
This is a very important episode for Lisa, and seeing her adapt to a MegaChurch like this and how it tests her morals is a good study on her character at this point. Mind you, she'll eventually campaign every cause under the sun, so these all become meaningless, but it's nice to see what she values most of all.
The show had a bizarre thing with Dominos at this point. There was this, the parade balloon and the sponsorship done with Aussie channels. Is the Homer approval so coveted that people go in multiple times over?
Bullshit. CBG would be a Jedist or one of those Flying Spaghetti Monster Witnesses before he'd be a Catholic.
ACT 2: 8/10
I have to thank the show for exposing me to so many famous film scenes without actually watching the entire film. It's like an abridged series for the entirety of film.
Can we get more deep cut merchandise like this? Enough of KidRobot figures of whatever disguises are popular this week, we want barking angels, dammnit!
The whole family feels super skeevy this episode. It's an understandable dilemma, but it doesn't stop them from looking any less like assholes.
I'm honestly glad this status quo stuck. Springfield is not the most diverse place around. Not South Park levels, but still homogenized. So to have someone in the main cast make a change like this and have it stick is very welcome.
ACT 3:7/10
TOTAL: 7/10
The Real Abed
Perma-Junior
When you use the Frinkiac to make memes, you should really double-check the spacing of the text so each person has its own line instead of a bunch of them being coupled together with no distinction of which character is saying what line. It ends up making no sense in the context when it's broken up at random but not broken up when it should be. #NitPick 
Also, maybe Springfield is like my town was up until the early 2000s where Elementary went to 6th grade and High school started in 7th. (They didn't separate 7th and 8th grade from the rest of the school until the mid 2000s and even now it's still the same main building with a bunch of added sections glued onto the original layout. (Like a secondary middle-school gym attached willy-nilly to what was formerly an exit. Or a two-story area that isn't quite a library attached to another exit even though the school is only one story.)
Also, maybe Springfield is like my town was up until the early 2000s where Elementary went to 6th grade and High school started in 7th. (They didn't separate 7th and 8th grade from the rest of the school until the mid 2000s and even now it's still the same main building with a bunch of added sections glued onto the original layout. (Like a secondary middle-school gym attached willy-nilly to what was formerly an exit. Or a two-story area that isn't quite a library attached to another exit even though the school is only one story.)
Nerdkiller
Membeur
They did the whole Dominoes thing over here as well in the UK and Ireland, sponsored the show for 10 years. In fact, that's where I first heard of the company.
The family (and town's) reaction in "She of Little Faith" is pretty realistic. Even though the Simpsons aren't the most religious family, being confronted with an alternate faith often brings out ugliness in people who weren't all that religious as they see their world-assumptions confronted.
King of the Hill did a similar thing when those Buddhists thought Bobby was a Lama. Arguably KotH handled it less realistically (they were too tolerant for the context) given that it's supposed to be a more conservative family in Texas, but the reaction to Lisa in her Buddhist conversion episode is quite realistic.
King of the Hill did a similar thing when those Buddhists thought Bobby was a Lama. Arguably KotH handled it less realistically (they were too tolerant for the context) given that it's supposed to be a more conservative family in Texas, but the reaction to Lisa in her Buddhist conversion episode is quite realistic.
DUDE, WHERE'S MY RANCH?
A thought occured to me that we may very well see a day in which Disney owns this show. Telecoms are biting at each others legs, with the one that owns Disney having the sharpest teeth, and in my lifetime, we may see a future in which even FOX backs down. Having the vast majority of IP's under one roof? No company should have that power. But on the bright side, we'll get a Simpsons cinematic universe.
yay
Celebrity overuse is one of the show's biggest crutches in the middle era. Ever since the Lady Gaga episode, it's been decidedly less, and even here it's not that bad, but it feels like the show puts itself on pause to feilate whatever star is popular. They just list their accomplishments, then having them say a funny line, then leave. A guest star should be the cherry on top, not the entire cake.
Most of the act is the song, which is fine. Just highlighting the brief sign gag here with Bilboard for kidz.
I wonder if small places like this overindulge the time in the spotlight. I don't know if the place exists, but if I went to it, would it have a sign saying: "MENTIONED IN THE HIT TV SHOW: THE SIMPSONS"?
ACT 1: 6/10
It says a lot about how far we've come when I could legitimately believe this is a real set up. Smart-Fridge and all.
Was one of those Grandpa's? You'll find out when I review Who Shot Grandpa's Hat, coming this April 1st!
yeah, no
I sometimes wonder if they have people of whatever specific race/creed they poke fun at read the lines to see if they go to far. Modern (even modern compared to standards back then) Simpsons seems to never want to poke the beehive. Whether because they don't want to, or feel Family Guy has them covered, I can't really say.
Yeah, the plot doesn't feel interesting to me. It's another relationship crisis for Lisa with a wacky plot for Homer. Well trodden territory that doesn't feel unique or special, even at this point. The scenery is a different change of pace, but otherwise it's just... meh.
ACT 2: 6/10
Sometimes the smallest overexaggerations can make you chuckle.
Similar to what I wondered above, do certain brands try to avoid partnership with the show if they've been slammed before? Or is any partnership a good partnership in this scenario?
I'll level with you, sometimes some of these choices are simply because I have to fill my self imposed 4-pic minimum for an act. This line is just on the borderline of being OK, but in a boring episode like this, it just feels like it's an oasis. These are the ones I dread the most. Not the bad ones, but the ones that you feel no strong ideas towards, one way or another.
We need to hear the full version of this.
ACT 3: 6/10
TOTAL 6/10
A thought occured to me that we may very well see a day in which Disney owns this show. Telecoms are biting at each others legs, with the one that owns Disney having the sharpest teeth, and in my lifetime, we may see a future in which even FOX backs down. Having the vast majority of IP's under one roof? No company should have that power. But on the bright side, we'll get a Simpsons cinematic universe.
yay
Celebrity overuse is one of the show's biggest crutches in the middle era. Ever since the Lady Gaga episode, it's been decidedly less, and even here it's not that bad, but it feels like the show puts itself on pause to feilate whatever star is popular. They just list their accomplishments, then having them say a funny line, then leave. A guest star should be the cherry on top, not the entire cake.
Most of the act is the song, which is fine. Just highlighting the brief sign gag here with Bilboard for kidz.
I wonder if small places like this overindulge the time in the spotlight. I don't know if the place exists, but if I went to it, would it have a sign saying: "MENTIONED IN THE HIT TV SHOW: THE SIMPSONS"?
ACT 1: 6/10
It says a lot about how far we've come when I could legitimately believe this is a real set up. Smart-Fridge and all.
Was one of those Grandpa's? You'll find out when I review Who Shot Grandpa's Hat, coming this April 1st!
yeah, no
I sometimes wonder if they have people of whatever specific race/creed they poke fun at read the lines to see if they go to far. Modern (even modern compared to standards back then) Simpsons seems to never want to poke the beehive. Whether because they don't want to, or feel Family Guy has them covered, I can't really say.
Yeah, the plot doesn't feel interesting to me. It's another relationship crisis for Lisa with a wacky plot for Homer. Well trodden territory that doesn't feel unique or special, even at this point. The scenery is a different change of pace, but otherwise it's just... meh.
ACT 2: 6/10
Sometimes the smallest overexaggerations can make you chuckle.
Similar to what I wondered above, do certain brands try to avoid partnership with the show if they've been slammed before? Or is any partnership a good partnership in this scenario?
I'll level with you, sometimes some of these choices are simply because I have to fill my self imposed 4-pic minimum for an act. This line is just on the borderline of being OK, but in a boring episode like this, it just feels like it's an oasis. These are the ones I dread the most. Not the bad ones, but the ones that you feel no strong ideas towards, one way or another.
We need to hear the full version of this.
ACT 3: 6/10
TOTAL 6/10
When you use the Frinkiac to make memes, you should really double-check the spacing of the text so each person has its own line instead of a bunch of them being coupled together with no distinction of which character is saying what line. It ends up making no sense in the context when it's broken up at random but not broken up when it should be. #NitPick
Noted. Shall change.
Bizarre that they did that, then a slam at the company later on.
I do agree, it just feels off that OFF would be this religious.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TIS THE FIFTEENTH SEASON
If Moe and Grandpa are my top two characters, Krusty is my third. Unlike the other two however, I like his later appearances just a tiny bit more than his earlier ones.
For a long while, I didn't know this was spoofing a real thing. The California Raisins were way before my time, and unlike everything else from the 80's ever, they didn't have a big enough of a pop culture resurgance to make me be at the very least aware of them.
No line, because I want to draw attention to the background painting. Can I get that framed as a print?
Having actually read the book for a High School class, I get more of a laugh at how wrong the statement is.
ACT 1: 7/10
I guess Jerkass Homer fits this episode, given what comes later, but this feels specifically mean-spirited.
She's creeping me out, too. Tears are supposed to be salty, not sweet. Nothing creepier than ma;functioning taste buds.
The brief pause makes this so much more funnier to me.
Merry Christmas! Hope you enjoy that image!
ACT 2: 7/10
Kent, you dick. You know that you'd get that reaction.
My folks always saw the show as just always picking on Christianity, but now I undeniable proof otherwise.
I feel bad for Nelson, being the show's whipping boy in it's later years. Of course, not entirely bad, as he's a series of pencil sketches that cannot receive my compassion, but I like to dramatize.
And here we see the whipping boy for the first half of the series. It's like a changing of the guard.
ACT 3: 7/10
TOTAL: 7/10 Good redemption story, nothing more to say.
HOW IN THE FUCK HAVE WE HAD MULTIPLE DIRECT ANIME PARODY REFERENCE THINGS ON THE SHOW, AND NEITHER HAVE REFERENCED DRAGON BALL?
MARGE'S XMAS MESSAGE
A brief short deserves a brief recap.
"Who the hell is Father Christmas? I thought I was supposed to be Santa Claus" "They're the same guy." "Which one is Jesus's Grandfather?"
A light little number made in the mid 2000's. This one isn't terrible, but it's not the greatest, either. But due to it's small size, it's over quickly. Really nothing to say, other than: It's intermission time! Have a bite with your loved ones! Play some vidya! Watch Yuri on Ice for the 5th time! I wont be going anywhere.
TOTAL: 6/10
A brief short deserves a brief recap.
"Who the hell is Father Christmas? I thought I was supposed to be Santa Claus" "They're the same guy." "Which one is Jesus's Grandfather?"
A light little number made in the mid 2000's. This one isn't terrible, but it's not the greatest, either. But due to it's small size, it's over quickly. Really nothing to say, other than: It's intermission time! Have a bite with your loved ones! Play some vidya! Watch Yuri on Ice for the 5th time! I wont be going anywhere.
TOTAL: 6/10
SIMPSONS CHRISTMAS STORIES
Thankfully it's an anthology episode, bookended by Homer being a priest, so I don't have to judge all three episode together this time! WOO-HOO!
THE FIRST D'OH-EL
It's a fine enough retelling, with the standard Simpsons charm. Not a boat load of laughs, but sometimes laughs aren't needed for certain retellings.
I do have to give them credit for tackling Joseph's feelings during this whole thing, even if it's parodic. I've not seen many that attempt that, period.
Even just one line extra can kill a joke's momentum. If this line stopped here, it'd be funny. But just that one extra topper killed the flow.
I guess the episode isn't book-ended by anything? The church bit just ends here. Well, a THOH is fine too.
6/10
I SAW GRANDPA CUSSING SANTA CLAUS
A bit of an odder christmas tale, but I do like seeing Abe's past. Let's see how it turns out.
If you're gonna be inconsistent, I appreciate that you're honest about it.
Burns has done everything by this point, I'm surprised that being a cannibal didn't come up earlier, TBH.
He needs to learn about his nephew's married life.
7/10
THE NUTCRACKER... SWEET
That sign sums up my thoughts on this segment. We just get a group of scenarios set to the nutcracker. No real jokes, just dance moves.
So the motion to request for more Willie episodes has been passed. Anyone have any new buisness to bring to the table?
No? Moving on then.
What is Krusty's show, anyway? It's a kiddie cartoon program now, but it had shades of being a variety and talk show in the past.
We get, amongst a slew of christmas hi-jinx, a attempted suicide montage.
Dear Al Jean, You're not South Park. Stop trying to make suicide jokes funny, especially as the show doesn't have a history of them.
Love, Every single carbon-based lifeform that has existed ever.
I like how he actually contemplates it. Sadly, it's the only thing I like about the segment.
3/10
TOTAL: 5/!0
Thankfully it's an anthology episode, bookended by Homer being a priest, so I don't have to judge all three episode together this time! WOO-HOO!
THE FIRST D'OH-EL
It's a fine enough retelling, with the standard Simpsons charm. Not a boat load of laughs, but sometimes laughs aren't needed for certain retellings.
I do have to give them credit for tackling Joseph's feelings during this whole thing, even if it's parodic. I've not seen many that attempt that, period.
Even just one line extra can kill a joke's momentum. If this line stopped here, it'd be funny. But just that one extra topper killed the flow.
I guess the episode isn't book-ended by anything? The church bit just ends here. Well, a THOH is fine too.
6/10
I SAW GRANDPA CUSSING SANTA CLAUS
A bit of an odder christmas tale, but I do like seeing Abe's past. Let's see how it turns out.
If you're gonna be inconsistent, I appreciate that you're honest about it.
Burns has done everything by this point, I'm surprised that being a cannibal didn't come up earlier, TBH.
He needs to learn about his nephew's married life.
7/10
THE NUTCRACKER... SWEET
That sign sums up my thoughts on this segment. We just get a group of scenarios set to the nutcracker. No real jokes, just dance moves.
So the motion to request for more Willie episodes has been passed. Anyone have any new buisness to bring to the table?
No? Moving on then.
What is Krusty's show, anyway? It's a kiddie cartoon program now, but it had shades of being a variety and talk show in the past.
We get, amongst a slew of christmas hi-jinx, a attempted suicide montage.
Dear Al Jean, You're not South Park. Stop trying to make suicide jokes funny, especially as the show doesn't have a history of them.
Love, Every single carbon-based lifeform that has existed ever.
I like how he actually contemplates it. Sadly, it's the only thing I like about the segment.
3/10
TOTAL: 5/!0
KILL GIL: VOL 1 & 2
(I don't care if the images shrink afterwards. You aren't missing shit.)
So in the newest episode, Krusty tries to converts to Christianity. I wonder if he remembers stuff like this during those times. Wait, nevermind, nobody on the current staff remembers older episodes.
"For your information, I have a girlfriend that lives in Vancouver." "Fake Girlfriend, fake city."
I love each and every shot this show takes at us. We deserve it all.
So I don't know why, but this guy actually became a recurring character on the show. Maybe the staff really likes non-copyright infringing Suess villains?
NOW LOOK AT THIS NET THAT I JUST FOUND
Smithers always seemed to me as a Burnssexual in his early appearances. Later on, that'd be proven false, but I still like to think this is a remnant from those days.
ACT 1: 7/10
"Marge, I have no idea what you were thinking about. Why do you think I did?"
A few funny lines are splattered here and there, but I think that like Gil, the plot has overstayed it's welcome.
Kirk was remarried by this point, right? Why couldn't Marge ask the Van Houtens to take him in?
The problem is that Gil's just not that funny of a character. It doesn't feel like he has any charm or anything other than bad luck. So to have him take over like this feels off.
Especially when he pulls this shit. You don't feel sorry for him, you just want him out of your life. He's just unlikable.
ACT 2: 4/10
haha, it's funny because the dog is going to die from exhaustion. haha.
"He's performing at a Century 22 Level"
Another line that's so dumb, it's funny again.
So everyone's an asshole. Gil's one for mooching, Marge is one for ruining Gil's new life, Homer's one for walloping a weird beast that may not be a costumed character (?!) And the Grumple's an ass for stalking Homer after the Ice show.
These are the characters we're supposed to root for, right? Because it just feels like they're jerks just to move the plot along. Very out of character (Or in some cases, too in character) moments by everyone makes this episode leave a weird feeling in my mouth,
ACT 3: 3/10
TOTAL: 5/10
So I may not finish all of the episodes by the end of the night tonight, but I will at least finish them all by new years eve. I give you my word.
(I don't care if the images shrink afterwards. You aren't missing shit.)
So in the newest episode, Krusty tries to converts to Christianity. I wonder if he remembers stuff like this during those times. Wait, nevermind, nobody on the current staff remembers older episodes.
"For your information, I have a girlfriend that lives in Vancouver." "Fake Girlfriend, fake city."
I love each and every shot this show takes at us. We deserve it all.
So I don't know why, but this guy actually became a recurring character on the show. Maybe the staff really likes non-copyright infringing Suess villains?
Smithers always seemed to me as a Burnssexual in his early appearances. Later on, that'd be proven false, but I still like to think this is a remnant from those days.
ACT 1: 7/10
"Marge, I have no idea what you were thinking about. Why do you think I did?"
A few funny lines are splattered here and there, but I think that like Gil, the plot has overstayed it's welcome.
Kirk was remarried by this point, right? Why couldn't Marge ask the Van Houtens to take him in?
The problem is that Gil's just not that funny of a character. It doesn't feel like he has any charm or anything other than bad luck. So to have him take over like this feels off.
Especially when he pulls this shit. You don't feel sorry for him, you just want him out of your life. He's just unlikable.
ACT 2: 4/10
haha, it's funny because the dog is going to die from exhaustion. haha.
"He's performing at a Century 22 Level"
Another line that's so dumb, it's funny again.
So everyone's an asshole. Gil's one for mooching, Marge is one for ruining Gil's new life, Homer's one for walloping a weird beast that may not be a costumed character (?!) And the Grumple's an ass for stalking Homer after the Ice show.
These are the characters we're supposed to root for, right? Because it just feels like they're jerks just to move the plot along. Very out of character (Or in some cases, too in character) moments by everyone makes this episode leave a weird feeling in my mouth,
ACT 3: 3/10
TOTAL: 5/10
So I may not finish all of the episodes by the end of the night tonight, but I will at least finish them all by new years eve. I give you my word.
Nerdkiller
Membeur
Nope. Kirk was still single up until he got back with Luanne.
THE FIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS
As a late boxing day gift (I seriously don't get why you Freedom Fries in 'Murrica haven't adopted this holiday yet. We had to add Black Friday to our calendars. It's only fair.) This is another anthology episode.
When I mentioned earlier about Lisa taking up every single cause that she could think of, this is what I meant. Lisa, Didn't you learn that Buddhism teaches acceptance of other seasonal beliefs? But now, just like the rest of the town, you've become a silhouette of a cutout.
THE POLAR DEPRESS (Aka Bart's Dream)
DUDE.
WEED.
LMAO.
These types of jokes are all that Otto's used for these days. I know I shouldn't expect much from a guy that bragged about driving the school bus, but having a fanciful journey be explained with just drugs and nothing more is beneath you, Simpsons. If you do any type of joke, do it well. Even if it's outside your comfort zone.
The express is just used as a go-to. The rest of the segment has little connection to the original story. Sad really. You're probably not going to see Christmas Treehouse of Horror anytime soon, so I wish that the segments have a little more TLC to them. The show has touched so many aspects of fiction that it's almost it's duty to give the proper attention and satire to the works it touches.
"These days, naughty is nothing! I didn't get a chick pregnant or Facebook a kid to death."
I didn't think you had the balls to go there, Simpsons, but you did. Good show.
6/10
IT'S THE MOST INGLORIOUS TIME OF THE YEAR (Aka, Lisa's dream)
US and USSR, friends? Hah, like that would ever happen. Next you'll be telling me that Roosevelt will complement Stalin's intelligence or something.
So since this is
does Lisa have a subliminal desire for pork products? Probably not, but who can say at this point. Characters are at the whim of whatever writer that decides to try this week.
The plot's OK. Lisa realizes why Christmas trees are important, and that's it. This should seem like the B-Plot, but it feels like the A-Plot instead.
So how much more racist would the crows be in the Nazi version of Dumbo? Or would they be replaced with some other stereotype?
MARGE AND STEWART'S LIVING (Aka, Marge's dream)
Such a nothing segment that I felt it deserved to be lumped with the shorter segment.
Martha Stewart basically makes Marge's house pretty at the cost of family happiness. Very few jokes, and even less of a plot. Later they'd use the fourth act as an epilogue, but they haven't quite gotten used to said extra act yet, so we get stuff like this.
5/10 (Bastards was 6, Martha was 4.)
SEGMENTS FOR A RAINED-OUT GAME PRESENTS: THE SIMPSON'S GO TROPICAL. (Aka Maggie's Dream)
I fucking love The Muppets. So when this segment was first previewed, I had high hopes about it. Were they matched?
Yes and no. Yes in the fact that this is probably the only time the cheesy jokes and plots work for the show. It's an alright tribute in theory. But no in the fact that The Muppet Show was funnier, that they had to do obligatory Sesame Street jokes and that the puppets themselves are kind of... meh.
"I wish this show was visited by three new writers! DOHOHOHOHOHO"
Mixed media episodes are always a treat to look forward to, But it feels like they had to bend over backwards to appease some studio notes. It's not bad, but it seems like it wants to hit it's full potential but never does.
"Lemee kiss yer belly button." "Oh, that's actually not my belly button. I didn't say stop."
We already have enough Simpsons R34. We don't need scenes inspiring more, thanks.
8/10
TOTAL: 5/10
As a late boxing day gift (I seriously don't get why you Freedom Fries in 'Murrica haven't adopted this holiday yet. We had to add Black Friday to our calendars. It's only fair.) This is another anthology episode.
When I mentioned earlier about Lisa taking up every single cause that she could think of, this is what I meant. Lisa, Didn't you learn that Buddhism teaches acceptance of other seasonal beliefs? But now, just like the rest of the town, you've become a silhouette of a cutout.
THE POLAR DEPRESS (Aka Bart's Dream)
DUDE.
WEED.
LMAO.
These types of jokes are all that Otto's used for these days. I know I shouldn't expect much from a guy that bragged about driving the school bus, but having a fanciful journey be explained with just drugs and nothing more is beneath you, Simpsons. If you do any type of joke, do it well. Even if it's outside your comfort zone.
The express is just used as a go-to. The rest of the segment has little connection to the original story. Sad really. You're probably not going to see Christmas Treehouse of Horror anytime soon, so I wish that the segments have a little more TLC to them. The show has touched so many aspects of fiction that it's almost it's duty to give the proper attention and satire to the works it touches.
"These days, naughty is nothing! I didn't get a chick pregnant or Facebook a kid to death."
I didn't think you had the balls to go there, Simpsons, but you did. Good show.
6/10
IT'S THE MOST INGLORIOUS TIME OF THE YEAR (Aka, Lisa's dream)
US and USSR, friends? Hah, like that would ever happen. Next you'll be telling me that Roosevelt will complement Stalin's intelligence or something.
So since this is
a dream
The plot's OK. Lisa realizes why Christmas trees are important, and that's it. This should seem like the B-Plot, but it feels like the A-Plot instead.
So how much more racist would the crows be in the Nazi version of Dumbo? Or would they be replaced with some other stereotype?
MARGE AND STEWART'S LIVING (Aka, Marge's dream)
Such a nothing segment that I felt it deserved to be lumped with the shorter segment.
Martha Stewart basically makes Marge's house pretty at the cost of family happiness. Very few jokes, and even less of a plot. Later they'd use the fourth act as an epilogue, but they haven't quite gotten used to said extra act yet, so we get stuff like this.
5/10 (Bastards was 6, Martha was 4.)
SEGMENTS FOR A RAINED-OUT GAME PRESENTS: THE SIMPSON'S GO TROPICAL. (Aka Maggie's Dream)
I fucking love The Muppets. So when this segment was first previewed, I had high hopes about it. Were they matched?
Yes and no. Yes in the fact that this is probably the only time the cheesy jokes and plots work for the show. It's an alright tribute in theory. But no in the fact that The Muppet Show was funnier, that they had to do obligatory Sesame Street jokes and that the puppets themselves are kind of... meh.
"I wish this show was visited by three new writers! DOHOHOHOHOHO"
Mixed media episodes are always a treat to look forward to, But it feels like they had to bend over backwards to appease some studio notes. It's not bad, but it seems like it wants to hit it's full potential but never does.
"Lemee kiss yer belly button." "Oh, that's actually not my belly button. I didn't say stop."
We already have enough Simpsons R34. We don't need scenes inspiring more, thanks.
8/10
TOTAL: 5/10
HOLIDAYS OF FUTURE PASSED
So it's come to this. One of the most heralded episodes of the modern set of seasons, and what was supposed to be written as the series finale. I'm not entirely sure what I can say about it that hasn't been said, but I'll try something.
It's one of those future-based episodes that were all the rage before Groening and Cohen decided to create that other show. (The PJ's, I think it was called?) So it's filled with future puns and gags. Yet while some of them land, others stumble a bit. They're mostly harmless, but I'm just dreading the listicle on BretFeed that talks about what the show got wrong when we get to the Season 53 premier in 2041
The plot is fine enough, and seeing certain characters at new points in their lives is alright, if it hadn't been done before, but it's bogged down by small nonsensical plot choices that dampen the impact of the excursion. Like why there's no elementary school anymore or bits like Michigan being under Shaira law.
This first act specifically feels a little cramped with the photo montage at the beginning. Some parts are fine in terms of how they circumvent some expectations, (Bart being the first to try for post-secondary, Mute Maggie being the voice of her generation) but it feels like it could have been cut down just by a hair.
I think I ruined the episode by reading up on that last episode tidbit. It was in response to the VA's wanting more dinero that they wrote it as it could be the last episode, IIRC.
7/10
"It's so hard to find somebody new." "Sure is. That's why after Homer accidentally killed Edna, I married Maude's ghost!"
...
It's fine, they couldn't have known. It's fine, they couldn't have known.
The Mad Max style air-travel is fun, but the nativity references in the hospital feel like they just had an OK bit of wordplay, then tried to press their luck a bit too far.
I guess the spot where the show shines is the tender moments. Bart and Lisa have one, Marge and Lisa have one, Homer and Abe (and Bart's unamed in the episode kids (Seriously?) with Bart)) have one, it does all feel very warm. But warmth itself doesn't make a all time great. There are two Theater masks, not just one. Tradgedy and Comedy must intermingle together to make something great, and the classic era knew this.
I think Krusty's show has just devolved into Tim and Eric style shenanigans at this point. Eh, I'd watch it.
7/10 (7 for both the 2nd and 3rd act)
Boy, did they back the wrong tech-company horse.
One of the big plus's of this episode is that it has a lot of in-jokes and sign gags for the fans. It's something you really need multiple viewings for. So far it feels like an episode I would re-watch, but not all that often. Still better than the vast majority of later seasons which I forget immediately afterwards.
I think the major reason why it's remembered so well is due to it's surrounding competition. In this season alone we have the Lady Gaga episode travesty thing, so anything above that is seen as dry land in a sea of crap. But for me, it's just season 10-13 quality. Not good enough to play with the big boys, but mature enough to not sit at the kids table.
But in this era of the show, that's all you can really ask for.
7/10
TOTAL: 7.5/10 (Because I wanted to be a little generous,)
So it's come to this. One of the most heralded episodes of the modern set of seasons, and what was supposed to be written as the series finale. I'm not entirely sure what I can say about it that hasn't been said, but I'll try something.
It's one of those future-based episodes that were all the rage before Groening and Cohen decided to create that other show. (The PJ's, I think it was called?) So it's filled with future puns and gags. Yet while some of them land, others stumble a bit. They're mostly harmless, but I'm just dreading the listicle on BretFeed that talks about what the show got wrong when we get to the Season 53 premier in 2041
The plot is fine enough, and seeing certain characters at new points in their lives is alright, if it hadn't been done before, but it's bogged down by small nonsensical plot choices that dampen the impact of the excursion. Like why there's no elementary school anymore or bits like Michigan being under Shaira law.
This first act specifically feels a little cramped with the photo montage at the beginning. Some parts are fine in terms of how they circumvent some expectations, (Bart being the first to try for post-secondary, Mute Maggie being the voice of her generation) but it feels like it could have been cut down just by a hair.
I think I ruined the episode by reading up on that last episode tidbit. It was in response to the VA's wanting more dinero that they wrote it as it could be the last episode, IIRC.
7/10
"It's so hard to find somebody new." "Sure is. That's why after Homer accidentally killed Edna, I married Maude's ghost!"
...
It's fine, they couldn't have known. It's fine, they couldn't have known.
The Mad Max style air-travel is fun, but the nativity references in the hospital feel like they just had an OK bit of wordplay, then tried to press their luck a bit too far.
I guess the spot where the show shines is the tender moments. Bart and Lisa have one, Marge and Lisa have one, Homer and Abe (and Bart's unamed in the episode kids (Seriously?) with Bart)) have one, it does all feel very warm. But warmth itself doesn't make a all time great. There are two Theater masks, not just one. Tradgedy and Comedy must intermingle together to make something great, and the classic era knew this.
I think Krusty's show has just devolved into Tim and Eric style shenanigans at this point. Eh, I'd watch it.
7/10 (7 for both the 2nd and 3rd act)
Boy, did they back the wrong tech-company horse.
One of the big plus's of this episode is that it has a lot of in-jokes and sign gags for the fans. It's something you really need multiple viewings for. So far it feels like an episode I would re-watch, but not all that often. Still better than the vast majority of later seasons which I forget immediately afterwards.
I think the major reason why it's remembered so well is due to it's surrounding competition. In this season alone we have the Lady Gaga episode travesty thing, so anything above that is seen as dry land in a sea of crap. But for me, it's just season 10-13 quality. Not good enough to play with the big boys, but mature enough to not sit at the kids table.
But in this era of the show, that's all you can really ask for.
7/10
TOTAL: 7.5/10 (Because I wanted to be a little generous,)
where is our "Lisa The Otaku" episode. YOU CAN'T AVOID IT FOREVER!
So some behind the scenes shit first of all, I'm currently writing this with my laptop's A/V being routed through the TV. Yeah, it just stopped functioning for whatever reason. But a promise is a promise, so...
WHITE CHRISTMAS BLUES
I've always seen IandS as a microcosm of the show. Great beginning years, OK, yet gimmicky middle years, blase ending years. I want to say it's a pity we don't get more of them, but it's not, really, due to the current staff.
I remember reading that Bongo comics was a Groening owned company? Because that's probably the only reason why the company has remained so stationary all these years. Even those stuck-up Riverdale punks have more of a diverse portfolio than you do.
"People who have never seen a movie say it's a great movie."
There are some decently funny lines in this act. Or maybe they aren't and i'm just more receptive due to the amount of "Holiday cheer" inside of me. (I mean alcohol.)
"You can stay in our rec-room! Sometimes it's there, sometimes it's not., it's weird that way."
It feels good to have deep-cut lines like this on the show. It makes it seem like we have fans of the show on board the writing staff.
7/10
I saved you the trouble of sitting through a bunch of sign gags about Christmas specials. For some reason, this short act is filled with them.
They aren't great, but some can muster a smirk if you've seen the abundance of specials made as cheapo cash ins. Here's a few to get you started on one of my favorite underrated sites.
"This is good, black church good!"
Lovejoy, oh Lovejoy. It's always good to see the exploits of a not-that-religious Reverend.
(Did I mention that this was a short act? Because it's really fucking short.)
And as you can see by my choice of pictures and lack of anything meaningful to say, not that funny of an act, either. (But how is that different than any of the other recaps?)
ACT 2: 5/10
As bad as this special is, it would be heaven compared to a certain other infamous holiday special. Yeah, you know the one.
Miracles in Toyland. What one did you think I was talking about?
What's a Star Wars Holiday special? That doesn't sound like something that exists.
Springfield has a bitching economy if it can support stores this niche.
I always remembered these books as the Berry-Steined Bears! What sort of transdimensional magic is this?
The A plot seems to just fade-away (Marge is angry over guests nitpicks, then she isn't.) while the B Plot's resolution is finished by just one line. The episode started out as prommising, then fizzled out. Sad, but expected.
5/10
TOTAL: 6/10
...I don't get it.
WHITE CHRISTMAS BLUES
I've always seen IandS as a microcosm of the show. Great beginning years, OK, yet gimmicky middle years, blase ending years. I want to say it's a pity we don't get more of them, but it's not, really, due to the current staff.
I remember reading that Bongo comics was a Groening owned company? Because that's probably the only reason why the company has remained so stationary all these years. Even those stuck-up Riverdale punks have more of a diverse portfolio than you do.
"People who have never seen a movie say it's a great movie."
There are some decently funny lines in this act. Or maybe they aren't and i'm just more receptive due to the amount of "Holiday cheer" inside of me. (I mean alcohol.)
"You can stay in our rec-room! Sometimes it's there, sometimes it's not., it's weird that way."
It feels good to have deep-cut lines like this on the show. It makes it seem like we have fans of the show on board the writing staff.
7/10
I saved you the trouble of sitting through a bunch of sign gags about Christmas specials. For some reason, this short act is filled with them.
They aren't great, but some can muster a smirk if you've seen the abundance of specials made as cheapo cash ins. Here's a few to get you started on one of my favorite underrated sites.
"This is good, black church good!"
Lovejoy, oh Lovejoy. It's always good to see the exploits of a not-that-religious Reverend.
(Did I mention that this was a short act? Because it's really fucking short.)
And as you can see by my choice of pictures and lack of anything meaningful to say, not that funny of an act, either. (But how is that different than any of the other recaps?)
ACT 2: 5/10
As bad as this special is, it would be heaven compared to a certain other infamous holiday special. Yeah, you know the one.
Miracles in Toyland. What one did you think I was talking about?
What's a Star Wars Holiday special? That doesn't sound like something that exists.
Springfield has a bitching economy if it can support stores this niche.
I always remembered these books as the Berry-Steined Bears! What sort of transdimensional magic is this?
The A plot seems to just fade-away (Marge is angry over guests nitpicks, then she isn't.) while the B Plot's resolution is finished by just one line. The episode started out as prommising, then fizzled out. Sad, but expected.
5/10
TOTAL: 6/10
...I don't get it.
I WONT BE HOME FOR CHRISTMAS
Remember when the show didn't have to resort to their made up stand-in universe to make Star Wars parodies? Peppridge Farms members.
What i'm getting form this shot is that Spider Pig is dead. Good riddance. There's only room for one Spiderman pig parody and that's Spider-Ham, damn it!
"Oh hi, my special little guy. I decided to make a gingerbread man of a convicted fellon that tried to murder our family on multiple occasions! It has real icing sugar too!"
"AH! The ghost of Marge's future!"
Somedays I hope that Homer's hatred of Patty and Selma never wains. But then that would mean that the show would never end as well. Decisions, decisions.
6/10
GrumbleXMarge Fanfic when?
If good still exsists in the world, HOPEFULLY NEVER.
The plot does feel really warm-hearted, but the stakes seem non-exsistant. We know that they'll be back together come the end, so it never feels like this is the "worst" thing he's ever done. It's why I think i'd go mad if I had to recap every single romantic and marriage trouble episode for Valentines day.
DisneyToon really stopped trying, didn't they?
"You're so generous, Homer. Can I have $10,000?"
Another line where the delivery changes it's level of humor.
5/10
So, just as a aside, if I do another one of these review-a-thons, it won't be theme based. It's far too hectic to get them out before the deadline most days, with the way my personality is. So they'll probably be more casual. I would like to hear suggestions on what to tackle next, though. Other anthologies? Other holidays? The best episodes? The worst?
The pumpkin brings up a good point: Why aren't there year-round sections in big box stores for certain holidays? Just start at one side of the aisle for Christmas, one for Halloween, then expand the coverage later.
"Well he's not at the neon sign store."
And the joke comes full circle.
Anyone see this special? Is it good, or just standard shit?
6/10
TOTAL: 7/10
Remember when the show didn't have to resort to their made up stand-in universe to make Star Wars parodies? Peppridge Farms members.
What i'm getting form this shot is that Spider Pig is dead. Good riddance. There's only room for one Spiderman pig parody and that's Spider-Ham, damn it!
"Oh hi, my special little guy. I decided to make a gingerbread man of a convicted fellon that tried to murder our family on multiple occasions! It has real icing sugar too!"
"AH! The ghost of Marge's future!"
Somedays I hope that Homer's hatred of Patty and Selma never wains. But then that would mean that the show would never end as well. Decisions, decisions.
6/10
GrumbleXMarge Fanfic when?
If good still exsists in the world, HOPEFULLY NEVER.
The plot does feel really warm-hearted, but the stakes seem non-exsistant. We know that they'll be back together come the end, so it never feels like this is the "worst" thing he's ever done. It's why I think i'd go mad if I had to recap every single romantic and marriage trouble episode for Valentines day.
DisneyToon really stopped trying, didn't they?
"You're so generous, Homer. Can I have $10,000?"
Another line where the delivery changes it's level of humor.
5/10
So, just as a aside, if I do another one of these review-a-thons, it won't be theme based. It's far too hectic to get them out before the deadline most days, with the way my personality is. So they'll probably be more casual. I would like to hear suggestions on what to tackle next, though. Other anthologies? Other holidays? The best episodes? The worst?
The pumpkin brings up a good point: Why aren't there year-round sections in big box stores for certain holidays? Just start at one side of the aisle for Christmas, one for Halloween, then expand the coverage later.
"Well he's not at the neon sign store."
And the joke comes full circle.
Anyone see this special? Is it good, or just standard shit?
6/10
TOTAL: 7/10
THE NIGHTMARE AFTER KRUSTMAS
So since it's a later episode, there's not that many photos on the wiki i'm using, I also don't feel like making any screencaps like I did for THOH XXVII, so this summary may feel abridged. I may re-do it next year, when there's more to pick from.
The plot with Sophie and Krusty is good enough, if not rushed at some points. But what caught me is that Krusty seems better animated this time around. It's weird. The pagan carnival stuff got a few laughs out of me, as did the stuff at the hospital. I just can't seem to care about the Elf on the Shelf or Lovejoy attendance plots. The former seems especially tacked on.
7/10
The dream with the Elf on the Shelf is decently done, envoking memories of the theatrical Maggie short. Krusty's conversion is charming, seeing him change for his daughter, but the IandS religious reboot felt a little lacking. I was raised on a lot of religious shows like this, so even as a parody, it feels a little off to me.
6/10
The ending felt quick, although the message was fine. Not a lot of laughs for me, but it's harmless enough as an episode. It's a lot like the modern era: Harmless fun. Maybe not funny some days, maybe not heartfelt other days, but still decent enough.
5/10
TOTAL 5/10
TOAD.T WILL RETURN IN SOME POINT IN THE FUTURE TO REVIEW MORE EPISODES, BUT YOU CHOOSE WHICH ONES. WILL YOU MAKE ME LAUGH, OR MAKE ME SUFFER? IT'S YOUR CALL.
So since it's a later episode, there's not that many photos on the wiki i'm using, I also don't feel like making any screencaps like I did for THOH XXVII, so this summary may feel abridged. I may re-do it next year, when there's more to pick from.
The plot with Sophie and Krusty is good enough, if not rushed at some points. But what caught me is that Krusty seems better animated this time around. It's weird. The pagan carnival stuff got a few laughs out of me, as did the stuff at the hospital. I just can't seem to care about the Elf on the Shelf or Lovejoy attendance plots. The former seems especially tacked on.
7/10
The dream with the Elf on the Shelf is decently done, envoking memories of the theatrical Maggie short. Krusty's conversion is charming, seeing him change for his daughter, but the IandS religious reboot felt a little lacking. I was raised on a lot of religious shows like this, so even as a parody, it feels a little off to me.
6/10
The ending felt quick, although the message was fine. Not a lot of laughs for me, but it's harmless enough as an episode. It's a lot like the modern era: Harmless fun. Maybe not funny some days, maybe not heartfelt other days, but still decent enough.
5/10
TOTAL 5/10
TOAD.T WILL RETURN IN SOME POINT IN THE FUTURE TO REVIEW MORE EPISODES, BUT YOU CHOOSE WHICH ONES. WILL YOU MAKE ME LAUGH, OR MAKE ME SUFFER? IT'S YOUR CALL.
I LIKE CAPS LOCK.
Rhomega Beta
Member
Yes Mr. Ford!
Nerdkiller
Membeur
The Real Abed
Perma-Junior
Rhomega Beta
Member
Talking Simpsons. They go episode-by-episode, but you have to donate at least $5 to the Laser Time Patreon to get Season 1 (and the season wrap-ups). They're just wrapping up Season 4 now.
Andrew Korenchkin
Member
Definitely echo Talking Simpsons. Laser Time crew does a great job with that one, a lot of great banter and is very informative and talks through the episodes.
Also really like the Two Bad Neighbors podcast. They're also on the jokey end of the Simpsons podcasting spectrum, but it's a very easy-going and fun conversation about each episode.
I was in hysterics when this popped up on my Instagram feed on my morning commute:
https://www.instagram.com/p/BQJyzZGDHuu/
It gets funnier the more I watch it.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BQJyzZGDHuu/
It gets funnier the more I watch it.
lunchtoast
Member
Learned something from a podcast the other day.
When Burns says "Look Smithers, Garbo is coming!"
I thought it was just being old and mispronouncing the name. Didn't know he was referring to an actress, Greta Garbo.
When Burns says "Look Smithers, Garbo is coming!"
I thought it was just being old and mispronouncing the name. Didn't know he was referring to an actress, Greta Garbo.
Rhomega Beta
Member
Pitt the Elder!
Nerdkiller
Membeur
LORD PALMERSTON!
Rhomega Beta
Member
PITT! THE! ELDER!
Nerdkiller
Membeur
Professor Beef
Banned
Nerdkiller
Membeur
$pringfield I think, the bit where people are trying to get his money with ideas, think it was the hippy.
Feeling kind of devastated today. I run that TheRealJims YouTube channel (that UberTag recently linked to) about doing Simpsons reviews/analysis videos... And Fox just slapped a copyright strike on my recent "Simpsons Timeline (the Future)" video. I worked so hard on it and made sure it fell squarely into the bucket of fair use. Didn't even use video clips or audio. Just my voice over review with pictures.
Now I'm at the mercy of Fox. Ugggggghhhhhhhh. I hope this can be resolved quickly.
Now I'm at the mercy of Fox. Ugggggghhhhhhhh. I hope this can be resolved quickly.
UberTag
Member
Hopefully this is something that gets smoothed over for you in short order. Seems ludicrous to me that they would impose a copyright strike on a vid without clips or audio especially when you've built your channel on these for a number of years. This must be a fluke mistake of some kind.Feeling kind of devastated today. I run that TheRealJims YouTube channel (that UberTag recently linked to) about doing Simpsons reviews/analysis videos... And Fox just slapped a copyright strike on my recent "Simpsons Timeline (the Future)" video. I worked so hard on it and made sure it fell squarely into the bucket of fair use. Didn't even use video clips or audio. Just my voice over review with pictures.
Now I'm at the mercy of Fox. Ugggggghhhhhhhh. I hope this can be resolved quickly.
I hope so! I'm going to be patient since I'm dealing with a large corporation here, but the whole thing makes me nervous.
I used the "Fox turned into a hardcore sex channel so gradually, I didn't even notice" as the quote in the video tag, so maybe they got annoyed and didn't realize it was a quote? It could be because the video was just over 20 minutes and they thought it was an episode upload or something. Dunno. I've been getting some good momentum on the channel lately (went from 5K subscribers in December to almost 9K by today) so it's kind of unfortunate timing. Hopefully it gets resolved soon and I don't have to beg Matt Selman or someone on Twitter to make a phone call for me, lol.
UberTag
Member
Looks like the task of begging on Twitter has already been taken on by an admirer of your work. I did my part by throwing in a re-tweet.
And because I never got around to plugging it here... here's the second - and, as of now, unremoved - installment in Jims' The Simpsons Timeline series.
The Simpsons Timeline (The Present)
Nerdkiller
Membeur
The Real Abed
Perma-Junior
Cross post of course. Merry Switchmas everyone!
Aaron Strife
Banned
Wait that was you?Feeling kind of devastated today. I run that TheRealJims YouTube channel (that UberTag recently linked to) about doing Simpsons reviews/analysis videos... And Fox just slapped a copyright strike on my recent "Simpsons Timeline (the Future)" video. I worked so hard on it and made sure it fell squarely into the bucket of fair use. Didn't even use video clips or audio. Just my voice over review with pictures.
Now I'm at the mercy of Fox. Ugggggghhhhhhhh. I hope this can be resolved quickly.
For some reason I thought UberTag made those. I want to say I really appreciate your work. Always look forward to your videos. Really hope this gets squared away.
Love your vids, man.Feeling kind of devastated today. I run that TheRealJims YouTube channel (that UberTag recently linked to) about doing Simpsons reviews/analysis videos... And Fox just slapped a copyright strike on my recent "Simpsons Timeline (the Future)" video. I worked so hard on it and made sure it fell squarely into the bucket of fair use. Didn't even use video clips or audio. Just my voice over review with pictures.
Now I'm at the mercy of Fox. Ugggggghhhhhhhh. I hope this can be resolved quickly.