Nudge this surprisingly good movie somewhere between the 90s Simpsons masterpieces and the episodes of this decade

Rating: 8/10 (29 July 2007)

10 years ago, it would have been safe to say that The Simpsons was the greatest American cartoon in the history of television. For several years, we witnessed instant classic after instant classic back when the 90s ruled. However, as the series continued, the quality declined a bit, leading to mere overexposure of the franchise and a constant yearning of a return to the old days. It constantly gets promised that The Simpsons will return to the glory days and prove the die-hard fans wrong but every year despite the occasional success lies disappointment and letdowns. However, with that being said, The Simpsons remains one of the best cartoons of all-time, and a movie was inevitable. But, with some of the creative staff of the past decade gone and ideas running out (400 episodes does indeed eventually create writer's block) can the movie even come close to what it used to be? Can we get a movie that will install catch phrases, controversy, and conversation sparkers all at the same time? Will The Simpsons Movie be able to stand on par with "Homer at the Bat," "Marge vs. the Monorail," "Who Shot Mr. Burns," and "Itchy and Scratchy and Poochie?" Believe it or not, the answer is almost yes.
The Simpsons Movie is high and mightily above the modern-day episodes of the cult hit television show, yet barely ranks below the episodes of the 90s. Nonetheless, it is an entertaining flick that will not only please the die-hard fans, but will potentially bring in some new ones. The concepts in the movie we have seen before, but it doesn't matter because in here we have an interesting plot, plenty of one-liners, less emphasis on gags, obscure visual humor, good running time, and even a bit of heart. What is lacking in the adult cartoons of today (Family Guy, Simpsons, South Park, all the Comedy Central garbage) is the hint of sentimentality, which was one of the reasons why the Simpsons moments of the past were so wonderful. This wasn't just a throwaway popcorn flick; there was a good dosage of content that explores why Homer Simpson is such a bad father and why Marge can put up with it. Despite it missing the rich, extremely clever humor and commentary of the 90s Simpsons, The Simpsons Movie is a step in the right direction for the franchise.
The plot of the Simpsons Movie is a medley of past plots intertwining with a new one; Springfield is being isolated from the rest of the country because it has become so polluted, which turns out to be the fault of Homer Simpson. After they escape the Springfield dome, Homer is given another chance to show the family that he isn't a deadbeat loser. But as time drags, it's become apparent that Homer is not a good leader, a good father, or a good husband, even if the intentions are there. Can Homer Simpson prove his worth or will he be doomed to be separated from the rest of his family, the only people that understand him. The social, political, and/or cultural commentary isn't there, neither is most of the satire, but instead we have a plot-driven Simpsons episodesomething that usually doesn't happen. This concept is almost foreign to Simpsons fans but it works because we have plenty of jokes to move the story along.
While the usage of characters may trigger differing opinions, it gets the job done. The Simpsons Movie is indeed about the main family, but almost every other character throughout the years of the show have their moment to shine and make a memorable moment. There is a lack of exposure to the Springfield fiends Mr. Burns and Sideshow Bob, and there isn't enough Duffman (Then again, is there ever?) but this is made up by enough running time of every other minor character, and very little emphasis on guest stars (Counted only one band and one celebrity). The voice acting like usual is top-notch, but we need to congratulate Julie Kavner for her portrayal of Marge Simpson, who in this movie reveals her broken and vulnerable side, resulting in the saddest moment in the film.
Some can claim this is nothing more than a cash cow, but The Simpsons Movie is more like a celebration of all the great years in Springfield, (*insert state*). If you are fast enough, not only can you find the hidden jokes mentioned earlier, but references to past Simpsons episodes (Look for the broken-down ambulance). This extended episode doesn't take many jabs at pop culture or competing cartoons like it used to, but it's the one-liners and excellent visual gags that make up for it. Also listen for a surprisingly good musical score by Hans Zimmer. While this is more like an extended episode of the television show (Kind of like The Spongebob Squarepants Movie years ago) it is a darn good episode to watch, and worth the money.
Bottom Line: The Simpsons Movie is an extended episode that surpasses that of recent seasons and just misses the mark when compared to the classics. Instead of a multitude of plots combining together with satire, wit, and commentary like in the 90s, we get a straightforward plot full of gags that hit the mark and one-liners that will most likely be repeated multiple times for months to come. Everything that's made the Simpsons one of the most successful shows ever is present here. You will be left thirsty for more time, especially so we can see more of Springfield and its crazy inhabitants, but that does not make this movie disappointing in the least bit. Unlike the latest couple of seasons, The Simpsons Movie will not let you down. Grab some Buzz Cola and some Krusty Os, and enjoy another chapter in the long-running success of the cartoon that changed the animation world forever.