The Simpsons Movie - Doing Whatever A Spider Pig Does

I don’t believe in spoilers, I just believe in me. And Homer.

While The Simpsons have never faded from public view, the last few years have seen their franchise popularity wane ever so slightly; their eighteen year marathon hitting something of a plateau. So when I first heard murmurs of a feature film, my worst fears surfaced -- What if no one cares about The Simpsons anymore? What if the entire campaign gets ignored or laughed at? What if the movie…GASP!... isn’t funny?! Much like an over-protective mother, I was concerned for their well being, and worried they might get hurt. I was very, very stupid.

The Simpsons Movie is outstanding -- a true accomplishment for The Simpsons machine and a hilarious treat for The Simpsons fan. It’s nothing short of a miracle to bring sparks to an eighteen year old relationship, and a large army (the credit roll is sick) was assembled to generate new excitement, anticipation and fervor into this long running institution. The final product would indicate that everyone involved had something personally invested in the success of this film.

When the curtain goes up, and little Ralph Wiggum starts singing along with the Fox Fanfare, all your Simpsons dreams will be realized. The color is saturated, the picture is crisp, and the plot is as absurd and wonderful as any episode. Hans Zimmer’s musical score picks up expertly where Alf Clausen’s leaves off, and Green Day does Danny Elfman proud. Every quirk works, each innuendo solid, and all the social and political jabs are right where you’ve come to expect them.

Go see The Simpsons, large as buildings, prancing around a movie screen, and experience this oddly dreamlike phenomenon for yourself. It’s not at all akin to seeing TV actors awkwardly transition to movie roles. The Simpsons gracefully slide into their extended viewing characters, doing naturally what they do naturally. It’s like seeing your best friends after they’ve been to the salon -- all dolled up and shiny, and more glamorous than usual.

IN THEATERS TOMORROW