The Simpsons is, in many opinions, the best show on television, or certainly one of them. Recently, the show was renewed through 2005, making it the longest-running comedy ever, and the longest-running program currently on network television. But is it still the best? Each week, I'll look at the newest episode to see if the quality has diminished, or if the show still packs in the laughs.
The Simpsons 2/2/03- "Strong Arms of the Ma"
What Happened: The episode begins with the Simpsons going to Rainier Wolfcastle's bankruptcy sale. They end up buying lots of the fallen actor's stuff, including his first batch of workout equipment. Later, at the Kwik-E-Mart, Marge is mugged by a thief who takes her trademark pearl necklace. After this, Marge becomes frightened of even going outside to the mailbox. After she relegates herself to the basement, she discovers the workout equipment, buffing herself up to a muscular build. Soon after, she is introduced to a variety of steroid pills, which she gorges herself on. Now, she is not only insanely muscular, but very angry. She lays waste to Moe's Tavern, and then realizes what she's turned into. Marge then resolves to throw away the workout equipment, thus bringing life back to normal in the Simpson household.
My Thoughts: As usual, The Simpsons brings the goods. The episode is funny from beginning to end, touching on a number of topics, from celebrity financial problems to steroids to being afraid of just about everything. The latter topic makes this episode somewhat sad; it's a rare affliction to be scared about the outside world, but it is real. Among the best segments are Ralph Wiggum's response to an accidental pepper spraying: "Even my boogers are spicy!" and Homer's idea for lunch for the kids (he gives them dollar bills with the note "TO BUY LUNCH WITH" paper-clipped on). All around, a great episode of the show, and probably the funniest network program of the week.
Reach the reporter at joshua.spiegel@asu.edu.
