Episode 14 - Postcards from the Wedge
15 March 2010
Review
Synopsis: Bart tries to stop his parents finding out about all his incomplete homework. When they do Homer thinks he should be studying non-stop while Marge thinks his workload is too heavy. He decides to exploit these differences to cause problems in their marriage. To get past the arguments Homer and Marge decide to ignore Bart and focus on their own relationship. Bart's pranks no longer thrill him now that he can't get his parents attention. So he decides to use the old Springfield subway to destabilise the Elementary School's foundations. He leave his parents a fake note from Lisa so that they can find and punish him.
The Good: Though the content of the plot is questionable, the focus on the story is good. It was a pleasant change to see Marge and Homer realise quickly how important their marriage is rather than have that story dragged out until the end for the millionth time.
There was also an original bit of satire on an old TV cliché when Bart comes up with the plan to destroy the school. Behind him a thought bubble appears with Nelson (who advised him on his problem) exclaiming "That's what I'm talking about!" But then he waves his arms clearing the smoke clouds around him and adds "Man those text books really burn."
The Bad: The morality of this story is all wrong. Marge agreeing to ignore her only son does not sound consistent at all. And as for Bart, I'm not sure what the moral of his story says. It is presented as if there is something touching about him wanting to get in trouble with his parents. But his pranks destroyed a public building (a fact which will doubtless be ignored) which should have landed him in very serious trouble. And apparently he did it for the thrill of being punished and presumably paid attention to. I don't think his destructive need for attention is a happy end to the story. Yes I suppose his vandalism isn't done in a totally malicious spirit but it's hardly something to celebrate.
Best Joke: Homer dreams of his argument with Marge spilling over into her death. He wakes up in his chair realising the need to end their arguments: "Once again sleeping at work has saved my marriage!"
The Bottom Line: A misplaced morality play with very few good jokes.
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