This likely took a long time to put together, but I'm glad someone put forth the effort. This is every couch gag in the history of The Simpsons.

Article Permalink    2 Comments

I watched a new episode of The Simpsons last night. It was called "Dial 'N' For Nerder" and as usual with new episodes of The Simpsons these days, it was nothing special.

I'm also making my way through season 10 on DVD. By season 10 you can see the sparky genius dissipating. Now in season 19 it's not uncommon for a new episode to draw less than 8 million viewers. It's no longer must-see television.

I'm at a place where I still enjoy new episodes, especially with the kids, but I know I wouldn't be watching if it weren't for those first six seasons in the 1990s that blew my mind. Homer has earned the right to be just okay.

Article Permalink    5 Comments

I'm totally digging this picture of Homer if he were painted by Rembrandt. I stole this from limpfish.com.

If you're thinking Rembrandt is the guy who sang the theme song for "Friends", you need to read this first.

Article Permalink    1 Comments

As I referenced earlier in the day, Homer Simpson assumed the persona of Kurt Cobain during last night's episode of "The Simpsons". He led a band called Sadgasm.

Politically Incorrect

This was the first song we heard from Sadgasm. It's a lot like Nirvana's "Rape Me".

Politically Incorrect Redux?

I can't tell if this is a new song from Sadgasm or a different part of "Politically Incorrect". Either way, this one is Nirvana's "Rape Me" to a tee.

Margarine

I think this one is called Margarine, but it may be called Marjorie. It's not a spin on a Nirvana song but a reworking of Bush's "Glycerine". A grunge spoof has spoofed a spoof, so to speak. It still makes for a great tune.

The Grunge Song

All this grunge satire reminds me of The Radio Free Vestibuels and "The Grunge Song". You remember this gem from MuchMusic. Turn it up!

Article Permalink    12 Comments

I tuned into "The Simpsons" last night and enjoyed my trip back to the 90s. The story covered a period of time after Homer and Marge graduated high school but before Bart was born. It sent up 90s stuff like grunge and cigar bars. Homer's grunge songs were actually pretty sweet, mimicking Nirvana's "Rape Me" and Bush's "Glycerine".

Any fan of "The Simpsons" has accepted the flexible reality of Springfield. On this show it's okay to violate laws of consistency for the sake of a joke. For example, if an episode calls for the Springfield Nuclear Power Plant parking lot to be visible from the Simpsons' house, that's how it will be for one shot, and that's okay.

Last night's episode, entitled "That 90s Show", wasn't just a piece of flexible reality, it was absurd. We all know the story of Bart's birth and yesterday's episode just doesn't fit the puzzle. Weren't the 1984 Olympics taking place when Lisa said her first word?

On preview, it doesn't matter. They can blow away the space-time continuum so long as it results in a good episode.

Article Permalink    2 Comments

I not only watched The Simpsons last night, I enjoyed The Simpsons last night. Maybe it's nostalgic fumes that are forming rose coloured glasses, but I've enjoyed this entire 19th season thus far. It's still sharp, it's still funny and it's still The Simpsons.

There was a great parody of this popular YouTube video showing photos Noah took of himself every day for 6 years. This one is a time lapse of pictures Homer took of himself every day for 39 years. If you missed it, see it now while YouTube DailyMotion still has it.

Article Permalink    0 Comments

I enjoyed this new opening for the 19th season premiere of The Simpsons on Sunday. If you've seen the movie, you'll get the references.

Article Permalink    5 Comments

Watch Every Episode of The Simpsons, Ever - I don't mean to go heavy on Simpsons links this morning, but season 19 premieres tonight and you might want to catch up on what you've missed thus far.

I nominate this one for best link of 2007.

Article Permalink    1 Comments

Simpsons Scenes and their Reference Movies - As a Simpsons fan and movie fan, I love this collection of 66 scenes from The Simpsons beside the movie scene to which they refer.

Now someone just needs to add a column for movie name...

Article Permalink    1 Comments

I love Star Wars. I love The Simpsons. Therefore, I love this fan-made mash-up of The Simpsons Star Wars.

It's Logic 101.

Article Permalink    2 Comments

I saw The Simpsons Movie again, this time with my kids. Although only five and three, they were dying to see this movie, and I was dying to see it with them.

You actually appreciate this movie more the second time through. For starters, it's a perfect family film. The only questionable scene involved Otto and a bong, and as far as the kids know he was blowing bubbles. Otherwise, it's good wholesome fun.

They loved the pig scenes, and a gag near the end when they trick Russ Cargill into saying "I'm a wiener". They also love the physical humour, usually involving Homer and a hammer or a rock and a hard place. Here are the parts I thought were ultra special. Warning, there be spoilers below!

• Biting the Hand That Feeds You - The opening scene with Homer calling us out for spending money to watch something that comes on our television every week for free is pure Simpsons gold. We love to be roasted, and we'll pay for that.
• The Nude Scene - This entire montage was fantastic, especially the reveal. I remember the Austin Powers scene that inspired this, but Austin didn't have the gonads to show wang.
• Spider-Pig - Although his scenes are brief, the entire Spider-Pig subplot is pretty damn sharp. The song, of course, steals the show. The choral version of the song reached #24 on the British singles chart. At 64 seconds, it is the shortest track to ever reach the British top 40.
• The Scroll - The Fox promotional scroll was too funny. It might be my favourite part of the film.
• Bart and Ned - The subplot revolving around Bart's hunger for a supportive and nurturing father figure was handled with great poise and sensitivity. The scenes with Bart and Ned, juxtaposed with the hilarious scene of Bart and Homer fishing, is The Simpsons at its best. It's never just been about the laughs.
• Maggie's First Word - During the credits, Maggie utters her first word. Actually, it's not her first word, but it's her first word in front of the rest of the family. It was a great word, too... and I'm already looking forward to it.

There were many other great scenes, from Green Day to Alaska, but those were my favourites. The kids are still laughing at the "I'm a wiener" line. I must admit, I laughed at that one, too.

Article Permalink    0 Comments

The Simpsons Movie: 8 out of 10.

This is the hardest movie review I've ever sat down to write. I just ended a 17 year wait to see a film featuring the Simpsons. Since they announced this project had been green lighted, I went from heavy anticipation through a thick fear it would be mediocre to a recent optimism based on positive reviews. You can follow that roller coaster ride of emotions here, but I've got a review to get to.

I'm torn. On the one hand, it's good, which is good. My biggest fear was that it would stink, and it certainly doesn't stink. In fact, it looks great and feels quite good for 87 minutes. As good as it is, it's not exceptional. In fact, I would never label this film "great". It's good, and that pleases me, but this isn't just any movie. This is The Simpsons Movie.

I'm not necessarily disappointed, I smiled often and laughed quite a bit, but it did tail off in the second half and it didn't ever advance beyond the scope of a pretty good 87 minute episode. I guess I just set the bar too high. I guess I've spent 17 years hoping this movie wouldn't just be good, but would be ex-cel-lent. I remain hopeful that will be truer of the sequel.

When it comes to The Simpsons Movie, good isn't good enough.

Article Permalink    5 Comments

Speaking of positive reviews for The Simpsons Movie, the Globe and Mail had a nice little collection of Cancon Simpsons moments in an article they called D'oh Canada. I like it so much, I'm reproducing it here in its entirety.

D'oh Canada! by David George-Cosh

The members of America's favourite nuclear family have shared a long love affair with their northern neighbours. Everything from the National Film Board of Canada, which gets a credit in the fake film Poke of Zorro (E-I-E-I-Annoyed Grunt, Season 11) to Gordie Howe, as the unsuspecting object of Ms. Krabappel's affections (Bart the Lover, Season 3), have been lampooned by the show's writers, including Calgary's Rob and Joel Cohen and Exeter, Ont.'s Tim Long (the guy you can blame for most of the gags in the Toronto-centric episode, aired in February, 2002).

Simpsons creator Matt Groening even joked that Homer holds dual citizenship (Groening's father, whom Homer was based upon, was born here). Some classic Canadian victims:

The CFL

When Flanders Failed, Season 3

Homer lies on the couch, watching "exciting 15th-round action at the Canadian Football League draft." Monotone announcers can barely contain their excitement on how many rouges the Saskatchewan Roughriders scored last year.

Lisa the Greek, Season 3

Lisa helps Homer bet on football games, and in researching the sport's origins at the Springfield Library, comes across an "oddball Canadian rules" card.

Our hopes and dreams

Mr. Lisa Goes to Washington, Season 3

When Lisa goes to the U.S. capital to compete in a national essay contest, fellow contestant Trong Van Din mentions in his eventual winning essay ("USA A-OK!") that his immigrant family's choice of a new homeland was easy: "Where else but in America, or possibly Canada, could our family find such opportunity?"

Our geography

The PTA Disbands, Season 6

When the teachers at Springfield Elementary go on strike and Marge fills in as a substitute, she bemoans to Homer how it took her class 40 minutes to find Canada on a map. His reply: "Marge, anyone can miss Canada, all tucked away down there."

And in Girly Edition (Season 9), newscaster Bart reports a feel-good piece about Joe Banks, an 82-year-old man who's gone to the same pond every day for 17 years to feed the birds, only to have them suddenly vanish. To where? As Bart says, "Some say the ducks went to Canada. Others say, Toronto."

The way we talk

You Only Move Twice, Season 8

Bart and Lisa attend a new school after Homer moves to Cypress Creek to start a new job for megalomaniac Hank Scorpio. After Bart gets shipped off into a remedial class, he meets a Canadian kid, Gordy, who congenially introduces himself: "I moved here from Canada, and they think I'm slow, eh?"

In Bart's Friend Falls in Love (Season 3), Milhouse's romance with Samantha Stanky threatens to break apart his friendship with Bart, until her father gets wind of it and ships her off to a French-Canadian nunnery: "They're very nice," she says, "except they never let me 'oot.' "

Hogtown

The Bart Wants What It Wants, Season 13

Actor Rainer Wolfcastle and his daughter Greta go to Toronto for a movie shoot, and a love-struck Bart follows them. The rest of the Simpson clan comes along, with initial apprehension by Homer ("Why should we leave America to visit America Junior?"). As soon as they arrive, Marge falls in love with the city ("It's so clean and bland. I'm home!"). Homer takes advantage of the then-poor exchange rate with a security guard ("American currency! What time would you like your breakfast, sir?"). Bart takes in a very special episode of Curling for Loonies, then lands a spot on the Olympic basketball team - as a centre, no less.

Health care

Midnight Rx, Season 16

To bring affordable prescription drugs to Springfield, Homer and friends drive up to Winnipeg and smuggle back cheap pills. (Ned meets his Canadian doppelganger, who offers him a marijuana joint: "It's legal here!").

And in Homer's Triple Bypass (Season 4), Homer reassures Marge that his surgery will go all right since "America's health-care system is second only to Japan, Canada, Sweden, Great Britain, well, all of Europe, but you can thank your lucky stars we don't live in Paraguay!"

Article Permalink    1 Comments

I made it all the way to 7pm without reading a single review of The Simpsons Movie. I successfully avoided all Simpsons-related news and the entertainment section of the paper. Then, I decided to get my head out of the sand and see what I'm in store for.

I think it's good. The two papers on my kitchen table gave it a positive review and The Simpsons Movie Rotten Tomatoes page has it at 88%. I'm so happy I could cry.

Scott Foundas from LA Weekly wrote a line in his review that could have been shaved off that spot in my cranium where hopes and dreams are preserved. In his profound words, "...what The Simpsons Movie does -- and does well -- is to revisit the series’ most enduring situations and themes while upping the ante just enough to lend everything a new level of suspense."

Trying is the first step towards failure, but I'm glad the guys behind my favourite show gave it a whirl. Now I just have to see it.

Article Permalink    0 Comments

I don't watch Jay Leno's Tonight Show, but I just found out Homer Jay Simpson performed the opening monologue last night.

Here it is.

And as an added bonus, here's a pretty cool Burger King ad featuring characters from The Simpsons.

Article Permalink    1 Comments

With The Simpsons Movie only days away from your local theatre, The Simpsons marketing blitz is in full effect. 7-Elevens have become Kwik-e-Marts, Simpsonizeme.com is completely overloaded, a giant figure of Homer with a doughnut was painted on a Dorset hillside alongside the ancient 180-foot figure known as the Cerne Abbas Giant and there's a huge painted doughnut at the base of the CN Tower as I type this. This week, our yellow friends from Springfield are everywhere.

As a fan of the series for over 17 years, I'd like to contribute to Simpsons-mania. In addition to my Homer Simpson Quote of the Week, which I've been updating every Saturday morning since August 8, 2003, here are my favourite Simpsons-related entries from the past five years.

• 9/11 - It took an episode of The Simpsons to truly bang home the impact of September 11, 2001.
• The Simpsons - My young son shares the love. Also read Prodigy.
• Why I Still Watch - In Homer I trust.
• Lisa On Ice - The episode that nearly destroyed me.
• A Streetcar Named Marge - Pulled from syndication following Hurricane Katrina.
• What Would Homer Do? - Words to live by.
• My Ten Favourite Episodes of The Simpsons - The list you know you want to read.
• 18 and Life - With apologies to Skid Row.
• My Bad Feeling About This - Is there any chance this movie will be "wow"? I don't think so either...

Article Permalink    0 Comments

It's almost here. I first wrote about The Simpsons Movie back in February of 2004 and I've written about it a few more times since.

As much as I've been anticipating this movie for the 18 years, I probably won't see next weekend. In fact, I probably won't see it for a few weeks, but I will see it. I wouldn't miss it.

This cats name is Zack Kim and look what he can do. I wish I could do that.

Article Permalink    3 Comments

July 27th is fast approaching.

Please be good, please be good, please be good, please be good, please be good, please be good, please be good...

Article Permalink    2 Comments

I thought this was pretty sweet.

Article Permalink    1 Comments

Take a gander at all these Simpsons-related entries. And lest we forget the Homer Simpson Quotes of the Week I've been managing for almost four years. Yep, I've loved The Simpsons since day one.

We're a couple of months away from the long awaited Simpsons movie. The closer we get to the release date, the more concerns I have. I desperately want it to be good, but I have a bad feeling about this.

When you love a franchise this much for this long, the expectations soar pretty high. I'm not interested in a "pretty good" Simpsons movie or a "kinda neat" Simpsons movie, I want "wow" or nothing at all.

Is there any chance this movie will be "wow"? I don't think so either...

Article Permalink    0 Comments

During the Idol Gives Back special last night, The Simpsons made an appearance. Homer, Marge and Lisa were judging Simon Cowell's rendition of the Pussycat Dolls' "Don't Cha". Bart shows up at the end to steal the sequence with his Brian Dunkleman jab.

Article Permalink    1 Comments

Twenty years ago tonight, The Simpsons made their first appearance on television. On April 19, 1987, The Tracey Ullman Show aired a two-minute animated short by Matt Groening that introduced the world to Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa and Maggie. The rest, is history.

I can't think of a better way to celebrate 20 years of The Simpsons than be revisiting their trip to Toronto during season 13. "I'm a ten year old boy in Toronto, I should be the happiest kid in the world." Damn straight.

Article Permalink    1 Comments

Watching the Simpsons last night, I was most impressed with the couch gag. I've seen hundreds of these things, and a few have really stuck out as winners, but last night's ranks amongst the very best.

It's the evolution of Homer and it might be the longest couch gag in the history of the show. Here it is.

Article Permalink    1 Comments

Here's the latest trailer (I believe it's number four) for the upcoming Simpsons movie.

Article Permalink    0 Comments

It originally aired ten years ago yesterday, and to me it hilariously epitomizes everything this holiday has come to represent.

Homer vs. The Eighteenth Amendment begins as Springfield celebrates St. Patrick's Day with a day revolved around booze. Even Bart gets drunk, leading to a return to prohibition and much hilarity as Rex Banner takes on bootlegger Homer Simpson. Here's the hilarious beginning of that episode, ideal viewing on a day like today.

Great quotes:

• Listen up, this is the busiest drinking day of the year. Where are the designated drivers? [two men raise their hands] Beat it! I got no room for cheap skates.
  ~ Moe
• Top of the morning to ye on this gray, grizzly afternoon. Kent O'Brockman live on Main Street, where today everyone is a little bit Irish, except, of course, for the gays and the Italians.
  ~ Kent Brockman
• Ladies and gentlemen, what you are seeing is a total disregard for the things St. Patrick's Day stand for. All this drinking, violence, destruction of property. Are these the things we think of when we think of the Irish?
  ~ Kent Brockman
• Oh, honey, you're not the world's worst mother. What about that freezer lady in Georgia?
  ~ Homer

Article Permalink    0 Comments

I had seen the cast of The Simpsons on Inside The Actors Studio, but Buffalo Boy led me to an edited version that's 9:03 of pure hilarity.

It's worth another viewing.

Article Permalink    0 Comments

A third trailer for The Simpsons Movie aired last night. This appears to be the footage they watched on AI the other day.

Article Permalink    0 Comments

The highlight of yesterday's American Idol was the footage of the contestants viewing a sneak peek of the upcoming Simpsons movie. There was quite a bit of new footage there and some interesting behind the scenes shots. Here it is, if you missed it.

Oh yeah, there was also some singing as they narrowed it down to twelve guys and twelve girls. Rumours on the internets say it's fixed and Brandon Rogers will win. Funny guy Chris Sligh advanced, as did Sundance Head who had an amazing first audition and then stunk up the joint in Hollywood. It seems you can ride a great early audition a long way on AI.

Personally, I like Lakisha Jones. Here's her audition.

Article Permalink    0 Comments

From the time it was revealed they were finally going to do it, I've been anticipating July 27, 2007. That's the day The Simpsons Movie will hit theatres.

I'm nervous. Things I read cause me concern. "We're still trying to figure out what the movie is about," admitted show producer James L. Brooks recently. Yikes.

I really, really want this movie to be good. It can't suck, it can't even be average. I've waited over half my life for this and it has to be great.

Article Permalink    0 Comments

I just wrote about wrapping up season eight of The Simpsons on DVD. Since I mentioned it, I thought I'd reveal my Simpsons DVD watching routine.

When a new season enters the home, I watch each episode twice. I watch it once with James and Michelle the way it was originally broadcast and once by myself with the director's commentary on. The kids are invited to watch the director's commentary with me, but James hates it when he can't hear "the real voices".

Both kids are showing great passion for watching The Simpsons and hockey lately, but my Spidey senses tell me they just like hanging out with Daddy. They know 90% of my television time involves one of those two subjects and cheering on the blue and white and yellow delivers some quality bonding time.

Next weekend, we're chipping away at season nine. Here's a classic take of one year old James mimicking Homer.

Article Permalink    1 Comments

When season eight of The Simpsons originally aired, I remember being amused but realizing that the glory days were long gone. I was still watching but I was looking back to the first five seasons wishing some things had never changed.

I just finished season eight on DVD and I loved it. There were some fantastic episodes, many downright hilarious. A decade removed and season eight feels more like season four. I have a theory about this. I call it my theory of relativity. It's a good name, please don't steal it.

When season eight is compared to seasons three or four, the episodes are okay, but far from stellar. As time marches on, and we watch seasons sixteen, seventeen and eighteen, season eight is that much funnier and intelligent by comparison. It's all relative, my friends.

Article Permalink    2 Comments

Steve and I have been exchanging the same gift for years, but this Christmas we reached a new level of indolence. I bought him The Simpsons Season Nine on DVD and he bought me the same thing, only I bought the DVD with the plastic Maggie cover and he bought the old style cardboard version. When it became apparent Steve didn't want the Maggie cover I ended up giving him his gift for me and keeping the gift I bought for him. Got that?

Ryan and I got each other the same gift as well. We exchanged Season Eight.

The tradition continues.

Article Permalink    0 Comments

Jewelgurl just sent me this. It's a virtual tour of the Simpsons house and it looks bang on.

Article Permalink    4 Comments

I remember the cautious optimism when it was confirmed they were making a Simpsons movie. Then, it was leaked they were targeting 2008 for the films release. Marked on my Google calendar now is July 27, 2007, the scheduled release date.

Tonight, the trailer will air during a new episode of The Simpsons. You know when and where. Also, I'm told at some point after 5pm Toronto time http://www.apple.com/trailers/fox/thesimpsonsmovie/trailer/ will spring to life with the very same trailer.

Excellent.

Article Permalink    1 Comments

During a sadly uninspired Treehouse of Horrors episode of The Simpsons last night, Homer was a green blob eating people. After devouring Dr. Phil he remarked that Dr. Phil tasted exactly like Jeffrey Tambor.

That's what I say!

Article Permalink    0 Comments

It looks like the ninth season of The Simpsons will be released on December 19. That makes it a virtual certainly that this annual tradition will continue.

Of course, I'm falling a little behind. Season 8 has been out for over a month now and it hasn't found its way into my collection yet. It's arrival is imminent, but I figure if I wait another couple of months I may find two seasons under the tree this year.

In the meantime, I'll enjoy whatever I can find at http://www.dailymotion.com/.

Article Permalink    0 Comments

All The Simpsons You Need - This link is too good to be true. I'm so happy I could cry. Ok, I am crying... buckets. I'm so happy!

Article Permalink    4 Comments

Holy shit, will I really be settling in tonight to watch my eighteenth season premiere of "The Simpsons". Can that be possible? Let's see... 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005 and 2006. Yep, that's 18. Holy shit.

I've written buckets on "The Simpsons". Suffice it to say that this series stopped being a mere television show to me long, long ago. The memories it's pummelled into me, the lessons it's taught me, the chunk of my personal history it's permeated, "The Simpsons" is my show. I remember being shocked by how good season one was, I remember being flabbergasted when it got better in season two, improved in season three and reached its lofty pinnacle in season four. To this day I compare bits of my day to day life to incidents from Springfield and wonder what Homer would do in a particular situation. He is wise.

Tonight, Joe Pantoliano and Michael Imperioli of "The Sopranos" guest voice as two of Fat Tony's goons. I'll watch it live and I'll enjoy it. Once I learned to stop comparing new episodes to the glory days I found my inner yellow glow of peace. I'm looking forward to season eighteen, my friends have been missed.

Here's hoping for another eighteen and one helluva good movie.

Article Permalink    2 Comments

IGN.com has come up with a list of the top 25 guest appearances in the seventeen year history of "The Simpsons". I've often contemplated writing such a list, but IGN.com beat me to the punch. Here's their top 25.

#25: Glenn Close
#24: Aerosmith
#23: The Hullapalooza Performers
#22: Tito Puente
#21: James Taylor
#20: The Cast of Cheers
#19: Mel Gibson
#18: Spinal Tap
#17: The Pro Baseball Players in "Homer at the Bat"
#16: Stephen Hawking
#15: The Ramones
#14: Johnny Cash
#13: Elizabeth Taylor
#12: Ron Howard
#11: Leonard Nimoy
#10: The Beatles
#9: John Waters
#8: Jon Lovitz
#7: James Earl Jones
#6: Winona Ryder
#5: Michael Jackson
#4: The Krusty Comeback Performers
#3: Dustin Hoffman
#2: Mark Hamill
#1: Albert Brooks

I would actually disqualify Albert Brooks and Jon Lovitz from my list because they've played so many memorable characters. I'd also disqualify the late great Phil Hartman because he was essentially a regular cast member. With those three off the market, here's my top five.

1. Dustin Hoffman
2. Johnny Cash
3. George Harrison
4. Leonard Nimoy
5. Michael Jackson

As far as purely musical cameos are concerned, Aerosmith, The Ramones and James Taylor were probably my favourites. Who were your favourites?

Article Permalink    2 Comments

"The Simpsons: The Complete Eighth Season" is now in stores and Maggie is on the cover. I own the previous seven seasons, in fact, seasons of "The Simpsons" are pretty well the only DVDs I collect. Things were going swimmingly for the first five season and then they introduced the plastic head covers.

First up was Homer. A plastic head of Homer Jay Simpson was the cover of season six and the same style head of Marge was the cover of season seven. Although they look neat, these plactic containers simply don't stay closed. They fly open, the booklet and discs are always falling out, it's brutal.

I can't wait to watch the season that brought us "El Viaje Misterioso de Nuestro Jomer", "You Only Move Twice" and "Homer's Enemy", but I really don't want another crappy plastic head case. My kingdom for a standard cardboard box!

Article Permalink    2 Comments

Season 8 of "The Simpsons" will be available August 15. This is the season that brought us "You Only Move Twice", "Simpsoncalifragilisticexpiala(Annoyed Grunt)cious", "The Simpsons Spin-Off Showcase" and "Homer's Enemy".

Since the only DVDs I collect are seasons of "The Simpsons", I'm certain this one will find its way into my collection.

Article Permalink    1 Comments

The Simpsons Movie Trailer - This is the teaser trailer you've read about. Ex-cel-lent.

Article Permalink    0 Comments

I've marked July 27, 2007 on my Sunbird calendar. That's the day "The Simpsons" movie will be released. There's a teaser trailer airing prior to "Ice Age: The Meltdown."

It's been a long time coming, it's been a long, long, long time running, it's well worth the wait.

Article Permalink    4 Comments

On March 4th I linked to "The Simpsons" opening reenacted by real people. It was spot on, created by Sky One, a channel in the United Kingdom airing the show. This Sunday, that same reenactment will precede the episode of "The Simpsons".

Another reason to look forward to Sunday night's episode is the fact it was written by and stars Ricky Gervais. I recently rented the six episodes of the original series "The Office" and they were superb. Gervais was sensational as the boss. I was already a fan of the American version of the show, but the Briish version is a treat.

I'm dying to see what he'll bring to my friends in Springfield.

Article Permalink    0 Comments

Fox has renewed "The Simpsons" for at least two more years. That will put it in its nineteenth season and will guarantee a 400th episode airing sometime during the 2007-08 season.

I've written a tonne about this show over the years, and when I finally migrate all my old entries over to MT, they'll be together in one convenient package. Needless to say, it means a great deal to me and has been a personal favourite for over half my life. An entire decade past their prime and I still look forward to new episodes on Sunday night. That alone speaks volumes.

When the season finale of season nineteen airs, James will be six years old. When I sat down to watch my first episode of "The Simpsons", I was in grade nine. Here's hoping this ride never stops.

Article Permalink    0 Comments

I closed my last entry about the real life Simpsons intro with the expression "cowabunga!". After I posted it, I realized that Bart almost never says that anymore. In fact, I don't think I've heard the term since the early 90s.

This got me looking for the origin of the term which naturally led me to visit Wikipedia. That's where I found this handy page about cowabunga, "used as an expression of exhilaration when riding the waves".

Cowabunga! was first used on "Howdy Doody" and was adopted by surfers who grew up watching the show. In my time, the expression was used by Cookie Monster, Snoopy, Michaelangelo from "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles" and, of course, Bart Simpson.

No wonder I get the warm fuzzies from the expression cowabunga. No wonder I always visit Wikipedia first.

Article Permalink    0 Comments

I've spent a great deal of my life in Springfield, living precariously through my favourite tv family. I was fifteen when "The Simpsons" debuted and I was on it like Troy McClure on a trout from the beginning. I even remember them from "The Tracey Ullman Show" in the late 80s.

Well over 300 episodes later, coming up with a top ten list is most difficult for a mega-fan like myself. There are just too many gems to choose from. How do you whittle it down to a mere ten?

Here are my current top ten episodes of all time:

1. Last Exit to Springfield
2. Homer the Heretic
3. A Streetcar Named Marge
4. Marge vs. The Monorail
5. Rosebud
6. Bart vs. Thanksgiving
7. Lisa's Substitute
8. The Telltale Head
9. Itchy and Scratchy Land
10. Behind the Laughter

Agree or disagree, just keep in mind how completely subjective this practice is. If you're a fan of "The Simpsons", don't forget to check out Homer's quote of the week, lovingly updated every Saturday morning.

Article Permalink    0 Comments

Television shows seemed better when I was a kid. After school, I could become immersed in crap like "The Facts of Life", "Who's The Boss?", "Growing Pains" or "Silver Spoons". Then, there were old-school favourites like "The Dukes of Hazzard", "WKRP in Cincinnati", "Three's Company", "Night Court" and "The A-Team".

Over time, as one ages and matures, sit-coms lose their allure and formulaic dramas lose their zest. Shows you really, really like grow fewer and far between. Your newly defined list of your ten favourite television programs rarely changes.

Here is my current top ten:

1. The Simpsons
2. Six Feet Under
3. The Sopranos
4. Curb Your Enthusiasm
5. Oz
6. Seinfeld
7. The Larry Sanders Show
8. Kids in the Hall
9. Arrested Development
10. The Family Guy

Agree or disagree, just keep in mind how completely subjective this practice is.

Article Permalink    5 Comments

Last Valentine's Day, I spouted off about how contrived I think this artificial Hallmark holiday is. This year, I'm going to celebrate one exceptional thing that has come from this date on the calendar: I Love Lisa.

Originally airing on February 11, 1993, The Simpsons episode "I Love Lisa" is a true gem. There are classic lines from Ralph, his very public humiliation at the Krusty the Clown anniversary special, his exceptional performance as George Washington in his school's Presidents Day show and Groundskeeper Willie's famous proclamation, "I didn't cry when me own father was hung for stealing a pig, but I'll cry now."

To my Valentines, and you know who you are, I Choo-Choo-Choose You.

Article Permalink    0 Comments

You learn a great deal about what goes on behind the scenes at "The Simpsons" by listening to the commentaries on the DVDs. When I get a season of "The Simpsons" on DVD, the first thing I do is watch each episode once with the commentary on, which irks James but pleases his father. There's a great deal of insight into how a concept evolves into an episode and I find it fascinating.

I just read an article by Mark I. Pinsky entitled ""The Simpsons": Behind the scenes of an episode" which fellow Simpson fans will want to read as well. Lots of neat tidbits and even some jokes from a future episode.

The table reads sound amazing.

Article Permalink    0 Comments

For the second Christmas in a row, Steve and I exchanged the exact same gift. Last year we gave each other The Simpsons Season Five on DVD. This year, keeping with tradition, we exchanged The Simpsons Season Seven on DVD.

It's exactly what he wanted and it's exactly what I wanted. The end result is two happy Simpsons fans enjoying "Bart Sells His Soul", "Lisa the Vegetarian", "Team Homer", "A Fish Called Selma", "22 Short Films About Springfield" and more.

Article Permalink    0 Comments

When Americans travel in Europe, do they really stitch a Canadian flag into their back pack and pose as Canucks? I've often heard about this and yesterday on "The Simpsons" Lisa did just that before their trip to Italy. Is this practice merely an urban legend or does it actually happen?

A little Googling proves this is very common advice given to Americans who are worried they'll be mistreated because they're American. Many give this advice and speak of people they know who did this with much success, but there are few first hand reports from people who have done this. Now that the sewing of a Canadian flag on one's back pack has been immortalized by the Simpsons, I want proof that people actually do it and I want to know if it actually makes a difference.

During the Dubya years, you'd think this would be commonplace.

Article Permalink    0 Comments

Earlier today I was invited to a holiday luncheon featuring a bunch of sushi. I'm not really a sushi guy, but I immediately thought of Homer. Homer wasn't a sushi guy either, but he tried it for Lisa and ended up loving it. Of course, it almost killed him, but that's not the point. The point is he didn't think he'd enjoy eating raw fish but he did.

Earlier today I reminisced about my U of T days living in a bachelor apartment, even though I wasn't a bachelor. We were really poor but we scored this great rent near the heart of the city and within walking distance of the university. We needed a place to put our books and my thoughts immediately turned to Homer. When Homer went back to college, he altered his room at home so it was more college-student-like. He made a makeshift bookshelf from four planks and six cinder blocks which he stole from a construction site. I had the answer. I would do what Homer did.

I found some suitable planks and, instead of stealing them from a construction site, I purchased eight cinder blocks from Home Depot and built a highly functional, very Homer-esque bookshelf that served us well for years. I intend to dig up, scan and share an old photo of this bookshelf I built in 1996.

Homer was right about the planks and cinder blocks and I'll bet he's right about sushi too. Whenever I'm in need of answers, I wonder to myself "What would Homer do?".

Article Permalink    0 Comments

There was a great exchange between Marge and Bart last night on "The Simpsons". While riding a bicycle built for two, they begin singing Lynyrd Skynyrd's "Sweet Home Alabama" together. We witness them singing the following verse about our very own Neil Young.

Well, I heard Mister Young sing about her
Well, I heard ole Neil put her down.
Well, I hope Neil Young will remember
a southern man don't need him around anyhow.

At this point, Bart asks his mother, "Who's Neil Young?". Marge's answer is classic. "He's a singer from the 60s, like The Archies and Banana Splitz".

Beauty, eh?

Article Permalink    0 Comments

Anyone is welcome to submit a Guest Blog Entry to MikeBoon.com. I received the following entry earlier today.

A question struck me last night while watching an episode of The Simpsons, and I of course thought of you. I would be curious to know what episode of The Simpsons featured the most guest voices. For this purpose, let's count band members as a single unit rather than individual members. You have 30 seconds. And.....go!

      Mike H.

Without cheating, I immediately think about the Krusty comeback special with Bette Midler, Johnny Carson and the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Then I think about the Mick Jagger episode where Homer goes to rock camp. Of course, the logical guess is the softball episode with Darryl Strawberry and the gang.

Hitting the web I see there's a great Wikipedia page called List of celebrities on The Simpsons. It's quite the list, but it doesn't answer your question. Twelve seconds of Googling didn't help either. "Homer At The Bat" is a good guess...

Article Permalink    0 Comments

Following the Katrina disaster in New Orleans, a great deal was made about fact The Tragically Hip's "New Orleans is Sinking" was removed from playlists out of respect for those victimized by Katrina's wrath. It was a sensible move and I remember thinking at the time that "A Streetcar Named Marge" should temporarily be removed from syndication as well. This episode of The Simpsons contains the lyric "New Orleans, stinking, rotten, vomiting, vile" as well as several other nasty swipes at the city of New Orleans.

It turns out that Channel 4 in the United Kingdom aired "A Streetcar Named Marge" on September 7th and has just apologized for doing so. I wonder when local stations will feel comfortable airing that excellent episode again? I wonder when radio stations will pick up "New Orleans Is Sinking" again?

Time will tell...

Article Permalink    0 Comments

Made-up words in The Simpsons - The Simpsons has coined some new words and phrases, popularized some existing words and phrases, and also used some existing words and phrases in new ways. This page lists all three.

Article Permalink    0 Comments

I just realized the date of the first quote posted on my Homer Jay Simpson's Quote of the Week page is October 8, 2003. That means I've been posting a quote from my cartoon hero every Saturday morning for over two years.

Back in the days before the blog I would post a quote from Homer each week but I wouldn't archive the quote. So, every week I simply overwrote what was there until I got smart about it a couple of years ago. I gave Homer his own page, archived and date stamped older quotes and moved the blog to the home page.

Here was the very first quote posted on October 8, 2003: "Well, crying isn't gonna bring him back...unless your tears smell like dog food. So you can either sit there crying and eating can after can of dog food until your tears smell enough like dog food to make your dog come back or you can go out there and find your dog."

Article Permalink    0 Comments

Season 7 of "The Simpsons" will be available December 13, just in time for Christmas. This is the season that brought us "Bart Sells His Soul", "Lisa the Vegetarian", "Fish Called Selma" and the ultra cool "Short Films About Springfield".

The only DVDs I collect are seasons of "The Simpsons". What a grand Christmas present this would be. Wink, wink, nudge, nudge.

Article Permalink    0 Comments

I happen to enjoy "Family Guy", but it's clearly inpired by "The Simpsons". Mad Magazine transformed the Griffin family into the Simpsons in their latest issue and you can check out the cool cover in this PDF.

During my drive to work I pass a billboard for Global TV with Homer Simpson, Peter Griffin and the father from "American Dad". As that Mad PDF states, it's the prime-time cartoon food chain.

Article Permalink    0 Comments

Fox isn't making us wait this year. For the past few years, the season premiere of "The Simpsons" has aired after the World Series. That has meant either late October or early November and that has meant the first episode has been the annual Halloween episode.

This season we're blessed with the premiere tonight. It's Season 17, which I still find difficult to believe, and as always I'm quite excited. No, "The Simpsons" tonight won't be as sharp or as funny as "The Simpsons" from ten years ago, but it still has its moments and it still gets me to smile and laugh.

The world needs laughter.

Article Permalink    0 Comments

From the moment I sat down at the age of fifteen to watch a Christmas special starring The Simpsons, I was hooked. I started taping each episode on VHS, even going so far as to edit out the commercials. These tapes were gold, allowing my brothers and I to watch the exceptional episodes from the first half dozen seasons over and over again.

During the sixth season, I simultaneously taped and watched the episode entitled Lisa On Ice. In this episode, Lisa and Bart compete head to head in a big hockey game. You would think the merging of hockey and The Simpsons would delight me, but this episode had the opposite effect. Compared to previous episodes, I found Lisa On Ice to be a huge disappointment. I didn't find it funny enough, I didn't deem it Simpsons-worthy and I was ever so angered by the fact the game clock ticked down during a penalty shot. I was so upset by this massive decline in quality that I immediately stopped taping episodes. These tapes I created stopped with Lisa On Ice.

Over the past few days, I've been revisiting season six on DVD. Moments ago, I completed Lisa On Ice and I laughed hysterically. Sure, I was still bothered by the clock ticking down during Bart's penalty shot, but I was pleased with the comedy and general Simpson-esque quality.

Ten years ago I saw The Simpsons decline begin, but I never stopped watching. I watched every episode of season sixteen and I can't wait for season seventeen. The Simpsons helped me survive high school, shaped the adult I became and is responsible for the vast majority of my parenting techniques. I am now 31 years old and for more than half of that time period I've had a family from Springfield to lean on, to laugh with and to show me the way.

May I never have to write about the series finale and may Homer never, ever change. As for Lisa On Ice, I highly recommend it. It's damn funny and definitely VHS worthy.

Article Permalink    0 Comments

Personally, I love the new packaging for The Complete Sixth Season of The Simpsons. The people behind The Simpsons, however, are ready for the complainers.

They have set up this website for "all those who fear change, and greedy people who like free stuff." You see, the new packages which are shaped like the heads of various characters, starting with Homer, won't fit perfectly beside the cases for the first five seasons. Some anal retentive people will have an issue with this, so anyone who buys season six can order a regular case to fit in with the rest of the collection. The new case is free with proof of purchase and a small shipping and handling charge.

Woo hoo!

Article Permalink    0 Comments

I own the first five seasons of "The Simpsons" on DVD, and the covers are all pretty much the same but with a different colour for each season. Season six, due later this summer, will have an entirely new look and feel.

Here's the cover. Isn't it awesome? My hero in all his glory.

I can't wait to add it to my collection.

Article Permalink    0 Comments

"You know what? We've just done the table read for The Simpsons movie, so although we've been promoting that we're going to do it, now we're actually doing it and are in production." These are the words of Nancy Cartwright, who was speaking with BBC Radio 1 this week.

Season 17 is merely months away and now we have preproduction of the long awaiting Simpsons movie. Excellent!

Article Permalink    0 Comments

The only DVDs I collect are seasons of "The Simpsons". I've got the first five and I adore each and every minute I spend with my second family.

Fellow fans will enjoying hearing season six is due to hit stores on August 16. I can't wait.

Article Permalink    0 Comments

Tonight's first new episode of "The Simpsons" entitled "Don't Fear The Roofer" is episode 350, right? You've seen and read the articles about this fact and you've probably caught some of the hype from Fox.

In actuality, it's going to be episode 351. "Future-Drama" was the true 350. For some reason, Fox doesn't count that first Christmas special, "Simpsons Roasting on an Open Fire", as an official episode.

Whatever. I'm enjoying episodes 351 and 352 tonight. We get a double-header before the return of "Family Guy". I'm giving the boob tube a spit-n-shine in anticipation of 90 minutes of broadcast Babylon.

Article Permalink    0 Comments

The show I've loved for more than half my years on this planet will air its 350th episode tomorrow night. The impact "The Simpsons" has had on my life is immeasurable. It has directly influenced the way I live, the way I think and the way I raise my children. The only DVDs I collect are seasons of "The Simpsons", I maintain a popular page dedicated to the words and wisdom of Homer Simpson and I recollect a slice of this stealth art in everything I observe, encounter and absorb. This television show and Maple Leaf hockey are the two loves of my life outside of my family. You can't understate the place these yellow characters from Springfield, USA inhabit in my heart.

Every time "The Simpsons" reaches a milestone of this nature, I read the same articles praising the show for its satiric humour and pointing out the obvious fact it's not as good as it once was. In January I wrote Why I Still Watch which explains why I'm still in front of the tv every Sunday at 20:00 without failure. "The Simpsons" in season 16 isn't as good as "The Simpsons" circa season six but it's still a pleasure to watch and one of the funniest programs on TV.

In Homer I trust, today more than ever. I have 350 samples validating this faith.

Article Permalink    0 Comments

Speaking of same sex marriages, there's one taking place in Springfield this Sunday and we're all invited. This is the much anticipated episode of The Simpsons where a character comes out of the closet and gets married.

Over 3,000 bets have been placed on who's coming out and here are the favourites.

1. Patti
2. Smithers
3. Milhouse
4. Lenny
5. Selma

I originally thought it would be Patti too but now I'm thinking they might throw us a curve. Ned coming out would make me laugh the hardest. Cross your fingers.

Article Permalink    0 Comments

"The Simpsons" was seen by it's biggest audience in 11 years Sunday night, but I taped it and watched it last night. In the episode, Comic Book Guy posts Homer's "Big Ass Baryshnikov" dance on his website, www.dorks-gone-wild.com. Homer becomes famous as people all over the world visit the site to watch this video.

The cool thing is, www.dorks-gone-wild.com actually exists. Visit the page and you'll see the page shown on Sunday night's episode. You can even view "Big Ass Baryshnikov", download "Big Ass Baryshnikov" wallpaper or send a "Big Ass Baryshnikov" e-card. Very cool!

Speaking of Comic Book Guy, it's revealed in this episode that his real name is Jeff Albertson. Add that to your Simpsons trivia stockpile.

Article Permalink    7 Comments

As previously declared, I won't miss a new episode of "The Simpsons". I've been watching for half my life and I'll continue watching until Matt Groening pulls the plug.

Here we are in season sixteen and I can see the ratings slipping. I'm frequently told that "The Simpsons" is no longer funny and I should have stopped watching years ago. I was watching last night and would be the first to suggest it wasn't a particularly strong episode. Still, I watch and will continue to watch, and here's why.

Although past it's prime and not nearly as consistent as it was throughout its first ten seasons, a new episode of "The Simpsons" continues to provide that one scene, line or sequence that causes me to laugh out loud. Even yesterday there were moments that I'm still recalling, still thinking about with a smile on my face. When I tune in on Sunday nights, I know I'm not in store for an episode from season four or five. I'm a realist. One brilliant send-up in an episode of "The Simpsons" in season sixteen provides me with enough joy to carry me through a typical week. Sometimes I'm witness to an uneven episode like last night's "Mommie Beerest" and sometimes I'm rewarded with a gem like "Midnight Rx".

We're fast approaching episode #350 and I'm not going anywhere. "The Simpsons" in season 16 isn't as good as "The Simpsons" circa season six but it's still a pleasure to watch and one of the funniest programs on TV. In Homer I trust.

Article Permalink    0 Comments

I'm worried. My friends from Springfield, USA have been missing for weeks now. I haven't seen a new episode of "The Simpsons" since December 12th, 2004.

By my count, we've only seen five new episodes this season and it's already the middle of January. This is most unusual and I'm concerned. The folks at Fox had better not be dicking with my show. At least they're promising a new episode this Sunday with plenty of CanCon. When Grampa is faced with high prescription costs, he and Homer have the solution: smuggle it in from Canada with a little help from Apu, Ned, and some fake Canadian health care IDs.

Now that's what I'm talkin' about. That's exactly what I'm talkin' about.

Article Permalink    0 Comments

In addition to the Queen's traditional address to the nation, Channel 4 in the United Kingdom aired an exclusive animated piece for English viewers.

If you're a diehard fan like me, you'll want to see this 2:40 of original, Brit-centric Simpsons gold. Download it here. Like I did earlier in the day, Homer even asked the audience what the heck Boxing Day was all about. Enjoy.

Article Permalink    0 Comments

My favourite television characters

1. Homer Jay Simpson (The Simpsons)
2. Tony Soprano (The Sopranos)
3. Ryan O'Reily (Oz)
4. George Costanza (Seinfeld)
5. Mike Logan (Law & Order)

Article Permalink    0 Comments

A rough release date for The Simpsons movie has come to light. Look for the most anticipated movie of my lifetime to hit theatres in 2008. "The biggest thing is you don't want to do a movie that's not reflective of the quality of the show," executive Producer Al Jean told Entertainment Weekly. "You don't want the quality of the show to slip because you're doing the movie. So we're taking a little time."

James will be six years old by then, an ideal movie-going companion. Michelle will only be turning four and who's to say she'll even be a fan...it's still too early to tell. I'll be turning 34 and celebrating twenty years of The Simpsons. I can't wait.

Article Permalink    0 Comments

It will be nice to have my reliable friends from Springfield back. Sunday is the annual "Treehouse of Horror" episode as The Simpsons begin their sixteenth season. I've been a devoted fan for all sixteen, more than half of my time on God's green Earth.

Entertainment Weekly has a good article about what's in store for The Simpsons this season. They run down the guest stars and topical storylines, including an episode where Grandpa Simpson has trouble affording prescription medicine, so he and Homer smuggle it out of Canada. You can also watch a preview clip for "Treehouse of Horror XV".

It's important that we don't take this series for granted. It's brought us all such joy for so long and one day it will be gone. I don't even want to think about it.

Article Permalink    0 Comments

As previously discussed, the fifth season of The Simpsons will hit store shelves on December 21. Fellow fans will be interested in seeing the cover art for this installment.

Check it out here.

Article Permalink    0 Comments

Fox Home Entertainment has announced the fifth season of The Simpsons will hit store shelves on December 21. If you don't mind pre-holiday shopping madness, that's just in time for Christmas.

Season five falls into the heart of The Simpsons' prime when every episode was an absolute gem. It will be great to add this awesome season to the collection so I can watch and re-watch "Homer's Barbershop Quartet", "Cape Feare", "Homer Goes to College", "Rosebud", "Deep Space Homer", "Homer Loves Flanders" and "Boy Scoutz N the Hood" to name just a few.

Here's a synopsis of season five. It's going to be a great Christmas after all.

Article Permalink    0 Comments

Rumours have been circulating that The Simpsons could be coming to an end after sixteen seasons. Matt Groening, however, says otherwise.

Speaking with BBC Radio 1, Groening stated the following.

At this point I don't think there's any end in sight. I once said a few years ago that I thought I was closer to the end than the beginning, meaning that, we'd been on air for ten or twelve years at the time and I thought we'd be on another ten years.

So I don't want to give anybody the wrong idea. Of course the show will end eventually, but not for a long, long time.

We've been on the air so long that we've corrupted an entire generation of children and now they've grown up and they're 'Simpsons' writers so the stories are getting really, really weird.

Excellent.

Article Permalink    0 Comments

Back in late July I wrote about the fact a character on The Simpsons is coming out of the closet next season. I speculated as to who it may be and now I know the answer to this question that has been plaguing me all summer.

I don't want to spoil this for those who want to be surprised, but if you're curious, simply highlight the following text. Patty is coming out. I was right!

Article Permalink    0 Comments

James has always enjoyed watching The Simpsons with his daddy. It's been something we've shared since his birth. At an extremely early age he was able to recognize