The 36th season of "The Simpsons" continues its tradition of Halloween-themed episodes with "Treehouse of Horror XXXV," a chilling anthology that offers a trifecta of terror. This episode, like its predecessors, delivers a blend of humor, horror, and social commentary, all while maintaining the show's signature wit and charm.
The episode kicks off with an artful twist, as guest animator Jorge Gutiérrez lends his unique style to the opening sequence, which is a visual feast that sets the tone for the nightmarish tales to follow. The show's title, "Los Simpsons," and the episode's title, "El Treehouse del Horror XXXV," are a nod to Gutiérrez's Mexican heritage, adding a layer of cultural richness to the proceedings.
The first segment, "The Information Rage," is a scathing critique of the American political system. It presents a world where political rage manifests as giant monsters, the red and blue beasts, wreaking havoc on Springfield. These kaiju-esque creatures, fueled by the fear and fury of the right and the anger and smugness of the left, respectively, are a stark representation of the divisiveness in society. The segment takes a darker turn with a downer ending, suggesting that society's inability to maintain harmony leads to its downfall.
In a clever callback to past episodes, the red monster destroys the gay steel mill from "Homer's Phobia," and the blue monster breathes books and snowflakes, a satirical take on the current state of political discourse. The segment also features a giant purple robot, operated by Bart and Lisa, which symbolizes the power of family unity in the face of societal collapse.
The second segment, "The Fall of the House of Monty," is a Victorian horror tale featuring Mr. Burns. It's a chilling story of a bad boss who meets a gruesome end at the hands of the ghosts of his abused workers. The segment is filled with body horror, jumpscares, and a twisted sense of justice. Mr. Burns' eventual descent into hell is a fitting end for his character, and the segment's dark humor is a testament to the show's ability to blend horror with comedy.
The final segment, "Denim," is a bizarre and whimsical tale of Homer's bond with a pair of extra-terrestrial jeans. This segment is a whole-plot reference to the "Venom" film, but with a "Simpsons" twist. Denim, the sentient jeans, is a possessive and jealous character, reflecting the darker side of dependency. The segment ends on a bittersweet note, with Homer choosing Denim over Marge, only for the jeans to save Marge's life, albeit with a twist that suggests an invasion from Denim's planet.
"Treehouse of Horror XXXV" is a testament to "The Simpsons" enduring ability to tackle complex themes with humor and heart. Each segment is a masterclass in storytelling, offering social commentary that is both timely and timeless. The episode's lighter moments, such as the Ascended Meme and Lighter and Softer tropes, provide a balance to the darker themes, ensuring that the show remains true to its roots while pushing the boundaries of what can be achieved in a half-hour animated sitcom.
In conclusion, "Treehouse of Horror XXXV" is a must-watch for fans of "The Simpsons" and a prime example of how the show continues to evolve while staying true to its core values. It's a spine-tingling spectacle that will leave viewers both entertained and thoughtful.