Not grade 'A' Simpsons but still a decent flick

Rating: 7/10 (14 October 2008)

I've been a Simpsons fan since at least the second season but the announcement of the long-rumoured movie didn't excite me much given that the glory years of the show are long gone. Nevertheless, I still expected something special from the team behind the big screen version.
The movie isn't bad but it's nowhere near as good as it could have been. For one thing, I can think of many, many episodes with a much better story than this. After close to twenty years it must be difficult to come up with something new, though, so I guess the so-so story isn't that surprising. However, I am surprised that there was no musical number, particularly since the TV show is known for several memorable ones.
I can't really say that the big screen (and big budget) was used to much advantage, either. Sure, there were a few nifty visuals and more detail than usual but the possibilities were endless. The length is even a bit on the short side at 87 minutes. This feels more like a standard episode padded for time and given a spit-shine rather than a story written specifically for the screen.
The voice acting is top-notch, as always, but chances are that some of your favourite characters are featured very briefly or not at all. Having the Simpsons leave Springfield (temporarily) didn't exactly help matters there. Also, I have to note that Albert Brooks's immense talents were unfortunately wasted on a thoroughly uninteresting character. The Tom Hanks cameo was a nice touch, though.
In conclusion, enjoy this film for what it is but don't expect something that's on par with the best that The Simpsons has to offer. Stick with "South Park: Bigger, Longer and Uncut" if you're craving a feature length animated comedy.