The Simpsons (TV Series) The Burns Cage (2016) User Reviews

A Smithers Based Episode with a Fun Side Story,

[lesleyharris30 · 7/10 · 20 May 2016]

The Burns Cage is a terrific Simpsons episode with a very well written storyline and plenty of very funny scenes. For the first time in the show's history we get to see a proper exploration on Smithers' sexual orientation, it makes for a great story as we get development on his relationship with Mr. Burns, as well as some great dialogue between him and Homer. However, I did feel Smithers story was lacking in depth, for being the first time the show ever covered his personal life to this degree they could have made it feel more significant. The side story was the highlight for me, Milhouse performing Humphrey Bogart's role in Casablanca had me in hysterics, as well as the young kid who acts like he's from the 50's, it easily could have worked out as a solo story. Funny and enjoyable, The Burns Cage is a very good Simpsons.

Homer makes it his mission to find Smithers a boyfriend, meanwhile, Bart messes with the school's stage show.

Another addition to a surprisingly great season

[milomakromallis13 · 9/10 · 8 April 2016]

after almost 30 years you'd think the Simpsons would of reached a point beyond stagnant but no, the show still has strong signs of life every so often and this latest season proves a little effort can go a long way. Its almost as if, after the past few years which were in the kindest words possible, tired, the writers have dedicated themselves to working harder. The jokes are funnier, plots not on auto pilot and the animation, ever so slightly more interesting.

Strangely, 'The Burns Cage' of all the good to great episodes this season is animated more fluidly than any episode I've seen in a very long time. It's the little details with the animation which adds a whole lot of humour. A lot of people were distracted when it aired last night by the fact the main theme was Waylon Smithers coming out as gay which has been beyond obvious for probably 20 years which upset people but thats besides the point. They've never directly covered it until now and they made a sweet, funny episode.

When Milhouse and Waylon are both love sick and confiding in one another, there was a great sense of emotion. Emotion is the great weapon that no other animated adult comedy can handle quite like The Simpsons and its wonderful to be reminded.