Because it was on TV for Two Decades: The Simpsons XX

Today, right now, at this very moment in time represents a very auspicious point in our Television Culture and Heritage. Twenty Years ago today to the second the first episode of the full television version of The Simpsons premiered to stunned viewers everywhere. The episode was "Simpsons Roasting on an Open Fire" (S1;E1) and it was...well it was ok.

But what spawned hence was a big part of my life and a shaper of American Culture for the past two decades, up to today. From Halloween Episodes to ever declining quality, for many of us we have never known a world without this spectacular escapade.

It is due to The Simpsons that I know what Schadenfreude or Deng Xiaoping is, laughing all the while. I'll quickly get too sickeningly nostalgic for the likes of this blog, so let me get to the point quick.

I typically avoid talking about this show in some of my entries here, the simple fact is that in any given episode there is a lot to talk about. Analyzing and determining this show, with 400+ episodes is a tremendous endeavour, although I'm sure very rich in its rewards. There are so many good episodes, it's hard to pick a favourite. To get this entry done on time, let's start with the first Ten that come to mind:

"Raging Abe Simpson and His Grumbling Grandson in "The Curse of the Flying Hellfish" (S7;E22)
"Duffless" (S4;E16)
"The Homer They Fall" (S8;E3)
"Treehouse of Horror V" (S6;E6)
"Lisa's Sax" (S9;E3)
"Last Exit to Springfield" (S4;E17)
"22 Short Films about Springfield" (S7;E21)
"Bart vs. Australia" (S6;E16)
"Cape Feare" (S5;E2)

and just for the hell of it and the holidays, how about

"Skinner's Sense of Snow" (S12;E8)

So go home right now, watch all those episodes, there are so many better ones, even more worse ones, and don't worry, because this show will be on for many many years to come. At least until it becomes unprofitable.