Engaging in a spirited debate about the objectively “best” episode of <em>The Simpsons</em> could lead to an ongoing discussion. Over its impressive 36 seasons, many die-hard fans tend to agree that the most exceptional and side-splitting episodes are nestled within its loose golden age, which spans from Season 1 to about Season 8. Yet, even this consensus is open to interpretation. Choosing any episode from this pivotal era could make a compelling argument not only for being the best in the series but potentially for being the greatest half-hour of animated comedy ever produced for television.
Among these beloved episodes, “Last Exit to Springfield,” the 17th episode of Season 4, originally aired in 1993, is frequently celebrated as the zenith of The Simpsons. For those seeking a counterargument, look elsewhere; this episode is undeniably the complete package. It functions seamlessly as a joke machine brimming with humor, sharp satire, a plethora of historical and pop culture references, and serves as a vital piece of social commentary. Even at his most ridiculous, Homer Simpson (Dan Castellaneta) can embody the spirit of a noble folk hero as he battles for a dental plan.
Discover the Cultural References in the ‘Simpsons’ Episode “Last Exit to Springfield”
Every season of the Golden Age of Simpsons is packed with unforgettable episodes and character moments, and Season 4 is no exception. Iconic episodes like “Kamp Krusty,” “Lisa the Beauty Queen,” and “Homer the Heretic” offer a delightful mix of creativity and humor. This season is where the series truly transitioned to make Homer the central protagonist, stepping into the limelight from his son Bart (Nancy Cartwright), who was previously the embodiment of youthful rebellion and irreverence.
In “Last Exit to Springfield,” we witness the culmination of Homer’s heroic journey. The plot unfolds as Mr. Burns (Harry Shearer) cancels the dental plans in the employees’ contracts, an unfortunate turn for Homer since Lisa (Yeardley Smith) has just discovered she needs braces. During the union meeting for the Springfield power plant workers, Homer passionately speaks about the vital need for dental care. His heartfelt speech earns him the title of union president. This sets off a dramatic confrontation between the determined employees and Mr. Burns, filled with attempted bribes, failed negotiations, and ultimately, a strike. Throughout this richly layered episode, Mr. Burns mistakenly perceives Homer as a savvy union strategist rather than just a bumbling father who is concerned about his daughter’s dental needs.
When it comes to the vast array of pop culture references and literary allusions in “Last Exit to Springfield,” the topic is virtually endless. The episode’s title itself is a clever nod to the novel Last Exit to Brooklyn, authored by Hubert Selby Jr., which offers a gritty portrayal of societal undercurrents and union corruption in 1950s New York. Among the standout sequences, we see parodies of two monumental cultural icons, The Godfather and The Beatles. Homer imagines himself as a powerful crime lord akin to Don Fanucci from The Godfather: Part II, while Lisa experiences a surreal trip influenced by nitrous oxide, reminiscent of Yellow Submarine.
No television show has paid homage to Citizen Kane quite like The Simpsons, and this episode features a bird that strikingly resembles Burns, reminiscent of the iconic screeching bird that made an appearance in Kane. Spanning references from Tim Burton‘s Batman to How the Grinch Stole Christmas and The Three Stooges, nearly every notable aspect of American pop culture is celebrated within this groundbreaking episode.
Nonetheless, the historical references and pressing social commentary provide a deeper impact than mere allusions to classic films. Homer’s rise to union leadership allows the writers to cleverly insert a joke about Jimmy Hoffa, the charismatic Teamsters president whose mysterious disappearance is still discussed today. Amidst a plethora of standout lines and visual gags, one of the most clever moments occurs when a chalk outline of a body is depicted on a football field, referencing the theory that Hoffa was murdered and buried in the now-demolished Giants Stadium in New Jersey.
The theme of unionization and workers’ rights is humorously explored in “Last Exit to Springfield,” but its significance resonates strongly in today’s context. With the prevalence of corporate consolidation and exploitative business practices making headlines, the marginalization of workers is more relevant than ever. Despite its comedic facade, The Simpsons often weaves a dramatic core and emotional depth into its best and funniest episodes. “Last Exit to Springfield” beautifully illustrates the solidarity of factory workers as they unite for their rights, culminating in a protest song performed by Lisa that evokes the emotional struggles depicted in Bob Dylan‘s music.
The Simpsons has shown us that we can gain insights into contemporary life and history through humor and satire. Finding laughter in the poignant realities of existence serves as both a therapeutic outlet and a reflection of life’s absurdities, as portrayed through a cartoon lens. The increasing political relevance of The Simpsons in recent years can be attributed to the alarming similarity between our most powerful leaders and Mr. Burns—once merely a cartoonish representation of a greedy mogul, now reflecting real-life behavior and questionable practices.
Explore Some of Homer’s Most Iconic Gags in ‘The Simpsons’ Episode “Last Exit to Springfield”
Beyond the social and political themes that the episode skillfully addresses, “Last Exit to Springfield” stands as a masterclass in the art of commitment to comedic bits, a technique that The Simpsons has perfected over the years. This commitment is exemplified in a memorable moment during the union meeting, where Homer becomes distracted while the speaker invites comments on the issue. His internal dialogue hilariously oscillates between “Dental plan” and Marge’s urgent reminder that “Lisa needs braces!” The repetition of these two lines escalates the absurdity of Homer’s thought process, culminating in a comedic crescendo that is both relatable and hilarious.
When Mr. Burns attempts to break the strike by bringing in residents from the elderly home, including Abe “Grampa” Simpson, he inadvertently invites chaos. Grampa’s strategy involves telling long, pointless stories to pacify the strikers, leading to a meandering tale about a ferry ride and an onion tied to his belt. True to Grampa Simpson’s character, the narrative lacks purpose or resolution. Rather than cutting off Abe’s rambling, The Simpsons brilliantly embraces the absurdity, allowing the audience to enjoy nearly the entirety of his nonsensical tale.
While achieving perfection may be an unrealistic goal, “Last Exit to Springfield” is rightly described as the pinnacle of The Simpsons‘ capabilities as an animated comedy, a sharp satire, a mirror reflecting American life, and a treasure trove of gags and references.
The Simpsons
- Release Date
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December 17, 1989
- Network
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FOX
- Directors
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Steven Dean Moore, Mark Kirkland, Rob Oliver, Michael Polcino, Mike B. Anderson, Chris Clements, Wes Archer, Timothy Bailey, Lance Kramer, Nancy Kruse, Matthew Faughnan, Chuck Sheetz, Rich Moore, Jeffrey Lynch, Pete Michels, Susie Dietter, Raymond S. Persi, Carlos Baeza, Dominic Polcino, Lauren MacMullan, Michael Marcantel, Neil Affleck, Swinton O. Scott III, Jennifer Moeller
- Writers
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J. Stewart Burns, Michael Price, Brian Kelley, Bill Odenkirk, Dan Vebber, Kevin Curran, Stephanie Gillis, Dan Castellaneta, Deb Lacusta, Billy Kimball, Jessica Conrad, Cesar Mazariegos, Daniel Chun, Jennifer Crittenden, Conan O’Brien, Valentina Garza, Elisabeth Kiernan Averick, Christine Nangle, Broti Gupta, Loni Steele Sosthand, Megan Amram, Bob Kushell, David Isaacs, David Mandel
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Homer Simpson / Abe Simpson / Barney Gumble / Krusty (voice)
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Julie Kavner
Marge Simpson / Patty Bouvier / Selma Bouvier (voice)
