Monty Burns Fleeing Circus
Even after all these years, the Simpsons are still rolling strong. Complete with a parody on Adventure Time, the season premiere of the Simpsons manages to continue to subvert audience expectations.
From the beginning of the episode, the show swerves along an unorthodox path to deliver classic jokes and references. For example, rather than having the citizens of Springfield revolt in response to the missing Lard Lad statute, the citizens argue amongst themselves whether they should riot or not in a typical, absurd Simpsons situation. The Simpsons excels when it drops subtle jokes without needing to overemphasize the utter lunacy of their reality. Homer’s idiocy takes center stage, as he is probably the only person in existence, who robs a bank for deposit slips.
However, the premiere indicates that this season won’t shy away from groan-worthy ethnic humor. Still, there is a smart attack on out-of-touch corporations and abstract marketing campaigns that is delivered phenomenally. While the ensuing solar beam gone crazy has some predictable jokes, it was an unexpected way to kick off this season. In a weird way, the set up for this episode feels like the connection between Man of Steel and Batman v Superman. After Springfield is devastated, the town’s Lex Luthor, Mr. Burns comes in to save the day.
The flashback that demonstrates the relationship between Mr. Burns and his mom explains so much of the character’s current state. Once again, the show expertly drops subtle nods like the blues brothers reference that dominates the background of a scene. Ralph’s spaghetti talent was both glorious and disturbing at the same time. The rehearsal scene subtly plays with the double standard within the entertainment industry. While in real-life certain behavior could be considered cruel and wrong, it is perfectly fine in the context of the show.
Predictable ending, but The Simpsons is more about the journey than the destination. The show is filled with more than enough parody and satire to keep audiences entertained for the duration of the show.
Quote of the show: “With above average height comes above average responsibility.”
