The Simpsons Movie

The Simpsons Movie brings Springfield to the big screen with the irreverent humor, absurd situations and affectionate family chaos that made the television series a cultural phenomenon. Homer is at his most spectacularly irresponsible, setting off an environmental catastrophe that gives the filmmakers plenty of opportunities for sharp satire, visual jokes and wonderfully ridiculous adventures. The larger animation canvas allows for more elaborate action and expressive backgrounds, while familiar characters make even the briefest appearances feel like a reunion with old friends. Some sequences, particularly Spider-Pig's unforgettable introduction, capture the show's ability to turn the simplest joke into something unexpectedly memorable. Yet the central story remains fairly conventional, and the film sometimes feels closer to an extended television episode than a genuinely essential cinematic evolution of The Simpsons. Its environmental message is entertaining rather than particularly incisive, while several beloved supporting characters receive little room to shine. Still, the energetic comedy, unmistakable personality of Springfield and the warmth beneath the family's endless dysfunction make this an enjoyable, if somewhat uneven, animated adventure.

— Matty, Curator of the Vault