When you talk about The Simpsons with people, the general reaction is "I like it up to season 8/9/10" or "I used to like it but it's not good anymore". This is so common that I'm starting to think that people say that just because other people are saying it. I like proving people wrong so I decided to make a list of five great Simpsons episodes after season 10, not in any order. Obviously this is just a matter of opinion, but if you think Simpsons is not as good anymore, you might want to give these episodes another chance.
1. Alone Again Natura-Diddily (S11E14)
This episode deals with the death of Maude Flanders. It's almost never a good idea to kill off a regular, but if you want to do it, this is probably how it should be done. The episode focuses on Ned and how he handles the loss. It even makes him doubt his faith in God, and even if it's just a moment it shows that this is a big life changing episode for the character. This episode changed things for the character, and that doesn't happen to often in a series like this, where very few episodes directly follows the previous ones. But this is something they follow up on several time in the coming ten seasons. From mentioning Maude, to Ned doing things in her memory, to him start dating for real again. This episode also gives Homer a chance to be sensetive and it shows that he really does care about Ned, even if he's not very good at showing it often. It's very nice to see that side of Homer, and that the two of them do have a real friendship.
If you're after a lot of laughs, this isn't the episode for you. There are a few times you'll laugh but they mostly treat it with respect. Though it does move a little fast, it's a great episode, with some very nice writing and character development. The ending is also quite optimistic, which is needed after a relatively sad episode. This is one you should check out.
2. Hungry Hungry Homer (S12E15)
Homer discovers that the owner of The Springfield Isotopes are planning to move the team to Albuquerque and tries to tell everyone. When no one believes him, he decides to go on a hunger strike.
This is another episode that doesn't have a B-story. While it does take away time from the other characters, we get more focus and time for the main story which is welcomed in such short episodes. What I love about this episode is to see Homer so commited to something, and it being something good. He commits to standing up for the little guy, and doesn't give up, even when it's easier. He decides what he wants to do, and then sticks to it. This episode really shows on Homer's inner strength. The episode is also very funny, with plenty of jokes. If you want a funny episode and see Homer at his best, this is one for you.
3. She of Little Faith (S13E6)
In this episode Lisa decides to quit going to church, after it has sold out to corporate sponsors, and find another way of belief. She finds Buddhism and feels at home, though her family isn't taking it so well.
Lisa is probably my favorite character and this is one of the best episodes about her. It feels so in character that Lisa would find her own way in religion, so I'm surprised this hasn't happened until season 13. It's really interesting seeing Lisa find more of herself and at the same time trying to be accepted by her family even if she chooses differently. You can see the struggle both her and the family is going through, trying to figure out this new situation. I also think this episode took a very adult look at religion. No religion is wrong here, especially Lisa points out that it's about finding what feels best for you. Not the funniest of episodes, but one that comes from an honest place. It's definitely worth a watch.
4. Don't Fear the Roofer (S16E16)
Feeling lonely after his friends and family are mad at him, Homer goes to a bar outside town. There he meets Ray, a roofer who agrees to help Homer fix his damaged roof. Homer and Ray quickly becomes friends, but when the rest of the family don't see any evidence that Ray exists, they become worried that Homer's new friend is imaginary.
The best thing about this episode is the friendship between Homer and Ray. They have good chemistry together and it's just nice seeing them become friends. The hints about what's going on are laid out early and planned out, so there's not really anything that comes out of nowhere when you find out the truth. This episode has a B-story, about how Marge is leaving Santa's little helper at the retirement home, to cheer up the senior citizens. It's a short one, but pretty funny. Overall it's just a great, simple and fun episode that you might enjoy.
5. The Italian Bob (S17E8)
The Simpsons goes to Italy to pick up Mr Burns' new car. After an accident involving cheese they end up stranded in a small italian village. They meet they mayor and shockingly discover it to be none other than Sideshow Bob, who's tried to kill Bart on several occations.
I was deciding between this and another episode, but I only made it halfway through this one before deciding that this episode has to be on the list. This is such a good episode. First of all, Sideshow Bob is always great, no matter which episode he's in, though this is one of the best. He's voiced by Kelsey Grammer, who has created an amazing voice for him. It can get so dark and menacing, but still incredibly dignified. And this episode is filled with jokes, it's a lot of fun. It's also great for the character of Bob to have grown a bit, he get's a family and it's not a one time deal, they will show up in a later season. I always enjoy seeing the characters move forward in their lives. And I just have to mention the theme for Sideshow Bob, it's perfect. You always get an "oh no" feeling when you hear that tune. Do not miss this episode, go watch it now.
Images: Fox
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