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The Simpsons Movie
Director: David Silverman
Cast: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Harry Shearer
Animated
Rated: PG-13
87 minutes
Here we have what is perhaps the biggest build up to any movie ever made. Sure Star Wars had a couple years between sequels but nothing like 18 years.
So far, every review of the film I’ve read begins with the critic’s admission that they are (or more accurately – were) huge fans of the series. I remember taping the Tracy Ulman show to fast forward to the 2 minute clips of the funny cartoon family. Since then of course, that funny cartoon family has become the undisputed pup culture king of the last two decades.
To put it in perspective, there are adults with careers, cars and even kids who have not known life without without the Simpsons.
So with a build-up like that, how can the movie possibly live up? Not
Bad.
That’s a glowing review since the series itself has been sputtering
along for over 12 years.
When it comes right down to it, it’s worth it just to see all the characters on the big screen. The novelty lasts for at least a good half hour, with gags and social commentary abound. Then, the film follows the same arc as the franchise. Its starts brilliant, plateau’s, and near the end you’re just there because you cant walk out on a friend.
It’s also cool seeing the Simpsons with a whole bunch of other people and when I saw it the theatre was packed with fans having a great time.
The plot is much like the plot of most Simpson episodes. Homer makes
a big mistake. This time it’s dumping a silo of pig crap into the
lake causing an environmental disaster.
In comes the Environmental Protection Agency with Simpson’s favorite,
Al Brooks voicing Russ Cargill, the leader who is almost a carbon copy
of Brooks’ ‘Scorpio’ character. The only solution to
the problem is to trap all of Springfield into a huge dome, and to be
destroyed.
Of course, Marge once again thinks that maybe it’s time she left Homer, so it’s up to Homer to save the town and his marriage. Meanwhile, the only sub plot is Bart seeking fatherly solace in his Neighborin-o Ned Flanders. Oh, and what Simpson episode would be complete without Lisa falling in love.
Considering there are over 200 loved characters in Springfield it would be impossible to have them all appear so the writers apparently chose to give everyone less than a minute while focusing heavily on the immediate family. Considering it’s an end of the world premise I would expect more Mr. Burns, sadly he’s only allowed to say ‘release the hounds’ and it’s done. Other glaring ommisions were Sideshow Bob, & Kudos & Kang. It didn’t help that they introduced four new characters that were not really needed.
That said, unless you passionately hate the Simpson’s, you will
enjoy this movie. Even if you were a fan until the series began to suck,
you will enjoy this movie. And now the only thing to debate is when the
series should gracefuly end.
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