The Simpsons Movie

Marketing for "The Simpsons Movie" has exploded, overflowed the silo, and continues to spread as I type this review. Passing the borderline, "The Simpsons" is probably the only instance where this kind of craziness is left tolerable. A number of 7-Eleven convenience stores have been revamped to our favorite Kwik-E-Mart all over the U.S. - Krusty O's Cereal, Buzz Cola, Donuts (with pink icing and sprinkles, of course), and Slushies hit the shelves.

It has been 18 years since America's first family made their debut and entering its 19th season, "The Simpsons" have never looked better. I remember the first time talk surfaced on bringing "The Simpsons" to the big screen in 1992. And after at least 15 years, depending on when you start counting, wishes are finally granted. The penultimate date of this long awaited movie would be July 27, 2007.

Friday night...as I inched closer to the movie theater, anticipation grew and my patience continued to evaporate. If only I had a bull dozer to graze through the traffic. I had spent the entire day at work with one thing in my mind -- years of waiting and today is the day.

BEST. MOVIE. EVER!

The infamous dysfunctional family is at it again, or rather, Homer does not waiver from his true self. It can always prove quite difficult to describe the plot of any "Simpsons" episode and to do any justice. The movie, as expected, does not stray from that trait. The plot centers on protecting the environment. One thing leads to another and before you know it, the people of Springfield are faced with total annihilation, all thanks to Homer and his pig.

This movie felt a bit short-lived and this is no doubt due, in part, to the continuous humor provided throughout the movie. No single second was spared. Every waking moment was filled with nonstop action and humor, and a whopping cast. It's hard to choose specific moments that are worth calling out...that was the entire movie. Itchy and Scratchy never change, Ralph is too cute with his 20th century Fox chant, Nelson's "Ha-Ha!" still has the same effect, Ned Flanders is still goo-diddly-od, and Homer is still, well, Homer.

Flanders takes a surprsingly major role in the movie, while characters like Apu and Mr. Burns made minor appearances. The frequency of "D'ohs" were extremely miniscule as well. Though I would have liked more movie time than 1 hour and 27 minutes, I cannot wait till another movie comes out.

The writers and produces did a simply wonderful job capturing everything we love about "The Simpsons." The script was flawless and was definitely worth the effort put in by everybody involved. My props go out to Matt and crew...I have no doubt in my mind that every long time "Simpsons" fan came out of the movie theater with gleeful satisfaction. Two big yellow thumbs up!!!