Nov 29, 2002 10:27 AM
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(Updated Nov 30, 2002 12:24 AM)
On the surface, one may think that The Simpsons may seem like just an ordinary cartoon show that should belong to Saturday morning tv, rather than in prime-time. A closer look would reveal that the longest running animated television show, has actually more substance than most ''reality'' tv you see on the tubes today. Without a doubt, the Simpsons has left their mark as one of the best shows of all time. We should enjoy times like these now, one day, we'll be looking back wishing we would have watched more episodes. The Simpsons features a nuclear family in a regular town called Springfield. Homer, is a slow witted, drunk father who works in a blue collar job at the nearby nuclear power plant. His mischievous son Bart is 10, his brainiac daughter is Lisa is 8 years old and his youngest baby Maggie is 1. Marge Simpson is the stay at home wife with tall blue hair that scrapes off the ceiling.
The core cast of characters is supplemented by a wonderful and diverse cast of audience-- from the wimpy principal, the corrupt mayor, to the shrewd boss. So what makes this show special? For one thing, their story line both pokes fun of real life quibbles and everyday realities that our characters cope with. Its funny and tragic at the same time. Its funny to see how Homer leaves his father at an inept old-folks home, yet tragic in a sense in that it is a glaring representation of how much of society treats their elderly. Homer's antics of getting drunk after work and then coming home to a home cooked meal prepared by Marge exposes societal stereotypes of the roles we assign to people. In the end, Homer's love as a father, Lisa's compassion, and the strength of a united family prevails. The Simpsons just get funnier and funnier every year. Without a doubt, this is the best television series ever--well deserving of the 12 seasons they have on the air.
The writing is indeed nothing short of genious. Adult humor stays only with adults, and children are not corrupted by them. The stories are diverse enough to reach a wide audience, example are like from Bart's struggles with school and Lisa's firm conviction to her beliefs.
In the end, the hardest part about the Simpsons is finding the best character. Every character is essential to the series and is beautifully played (two people portrays over 60% of the character voices)--yes, even that Bumblebee dude and the militant schoolgroundskeeper. Kudos to the Simpsons, easily the best show of all time!
