Within the realm of animated tv, few reveals have left as indelible a mark as ‘The Simpsons.’ The long-running collection has change into a cultural touchstone, identified for its sharp wit, humour, and, within the case of the annual ‘Treehouse of Horror’ episodes, its satirical tackle popular culture and societal developments.
The newest installment of this beloved custom, ‘Treehouse of Horror XXXIV,’ appears to have garnered blended opinions and prompted a mirrored image on the present’s evolving relationship with topicality.
The episode begins with a phase titled ‘Wild Barts Cannot Be Token,’ wherein Bart by chance will get digitized right into a residing NFT, or non-fungible token. The phase delves into the world of digital artwork, cryptocurrency, and blockchain, making references to ‘Bored Ape’ NFTs and the crypto economic system.
The try and parody these up to date matters did not land as successfully because the present might need hoped. The references felt considerably out of contact, because the blockchain and crypto discussions have developed because the present’s preliminary foray into this territory within the 2020 episode ‘Frinkcoin.’ With the current downturn in varied cryptocurrency markets, the timing of those punchlines was questionable.
The following phase, ‘Ei8ht,’ takes a distinct method, exploring the true crime and psychological thriller genres. It revolves round Lisa Simpson’s pursuit of revenge towards Sideshow Bob, who has been incarcerated after a feud with Bart turns deadly. The phase presents a darker and extra compelling narrative, with a give attention to serial killers and the complexities of Lisa’s character. It is a important departure from the NFT-focused opener and offers a welcome change of tone.
The ultimate phase, ‘Lout Break,’ takes a humorous twist as Homer Simpson, in typical style, breaks security rules by consuming a radioactive donut. This results in a metamorphosis that spreads a contagious “Homerized” situation, turning everybody into variations of Homer. The humor on this phase lies in its absurdity and the humorous references to the “nanny state” and on-line misinformation.
Nonetheless, the primary criticism of ‘Treehouse of Horror XXXIV’ facilities on the present’s method to topicality. The episode’s makes an attempt to sort out up to date points, such because the crypto economic system and political satire, have been met with blended opinions. The present’s once-subtle and intelligent social commentary has developed right into a extra direct and sometimes ham-fisted method. The references, whereas sometimes impressed, usually really feel misplaced and heavy-handed, detracting from the episode’s total enjoyment.
‘The Simpsons’ has a wealthy historical past of mixing humour with social commentary, and the ‘Treehouse of Horror’ episodes have been a platform for a few of its most iconic satire.