Wait for it …. Wait for it …

NOMINEE:
Best Animated Film

Theatrical Release Date: 07/27/2007
Director: David Silverman
Writer/Creator: Matt Groening
Cast: Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa, Maggie, President Schwarzenegger, Bumblebee Man

The long awaited feature length film version of the All-American family has arrived, “The Simpsons Movie” is finally a reality.

For years and years, there have been rumors and rumors upon rumors that a Simpsons movie was in the works.

While I’m still not quite sure what makes this time any more special than one of the previous 18 seasons, I’m glad to get this elephant out of the room.

There’s no point in telling you the plot, as I would hope you’re already a fan of the series (because if you’re not, I wash my hands of you) and know that basically everything revolves around Homer doing something dumb, repenting, and saving the day … oops, did I say too much?

What makes the movie so much different are the obvious things. There’s a copious amount of computer animation at work here and seeing all of my favorite characters on the big screen is quite a thrill. Also, since they aren’t constrained by television sensibility, there are a few things that might not have made the air … yes, I’m talking about nudity … you’ll just have to watch to find out what it is.

What impressed me the most about the film was that the momentum kept itself going rather well. My eyes did start to glaze over a little bit near the end but I had also downed a few adult beverages prior to the screening … so pocito de columno “a” y pocito de columno “b”.

Most of my favorite characters scored dialogue in the film and many of those that didn’t were seen in one shot or another. I know there was some marketing somewhere that mentioned that every character was in the film but if it was only as a body in a crowd shot, I’m not sure how I want to count that.

Still, it’s a movie and there’s only so much time to fit in so many characters. (Besides, if they want to, the voice cast is locked up for two sequels and, of course, the TV show has been picked up through 2009).

Now, it’s not all roses in “The Simpsons Movie”. While there were a number of fantastic jokes, some even worthy of asking if I’d like sugar for my coffee (that reference is for you Full Force), the need to keep a coherent storyline made for a somewhat dull affair.

To put it simply, I thought this would be funnier. Don’t get me wrong, I enjoyed it and am very glad to have seen it … but I’m not sure what really separates this from watching an episode on TV.

Saying that is part criticism but also part respect to such a long running show that still keeps the laughs coming.

While I can’t be overly kind in the rating of the film, I can say that if there indeed are sequels, I will be there to watch them. I’m giving “The Simpsons Movie” a 3 out of 5. Fans of the show will find much to like here and again, if you don’t like or haven’t seen the TV show … just go away, you’re wasting space.