"Pork and Burns" is a lackluster episode of The Simpsons that fails to capture the humor and heart of the show's earlier seasons. The storyline feels contrived and forced, with the characters' emotions coming across as surreal and out of touch with their established personalities.
Homer's reunion with Plopper the pig is meant to be a heartwarming moment, but it falls flat due to the episode's rushed pacing and lack of genuine emotional connection. Similarly, Lisa's sudden disinterest in playing the saxophone after getting rid of all her possessions feels forced and unrealistic, given her established passion for music. The attempts at humor also fall short.
Overall, "Pork and Burns" is a despicable addition to The Simpsons canon. The banal storyline and forced emotions are a far cry from the show's earlier seasons, which were known for their relatable and realistic characterizations. While die-hard fans may find some enjoyment in seeing Plopper again, the episode is ultimately forgettable and fails to capture the magic that made The Simpsons a cultural phenomenon. The only thing worth it is the joke about the greeting cards sold at the car wash.