Review: No Good Read Goes Unpunished [Simpsons]

Well for starters, you could do a LOT more than this mess...
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Twitter: / pieguyrulz
Gaming Channel: / letsplaypkmn
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All art is made by Erin and myself.

[@Kanohoro]

Once upon a time, the Warner Bros released DVDs of classic Looney Tunes, with a big disclaimer at the start, saying "these DVDs feature stereotypes of minorities. They were wrong at the time and are wrong today. The only reason we redistribute them now is because to do otherwise would be to pretend they never existed" or something along those lines. Looking at Beowulf and classic mythology, I strongly believe that fictional media can serve a purpose as a relic of its time, or a time capsule. It has the power to showcase and demonstrate both the pleasant and unpleasant truths of life at the time. It even affects silly cartoony things you wouldn't expect. Looney Tunes has its own fair share of controversy, and probably in the next 40 years or so we'll see some SpongeBob controversy. I wouldn't be surprised. Baring this in mind, I think removing Apu from the Simpsons entirely, pretending he never existed , and never airing an episode featuring Apu would be paramount to book-burning. That being said, if the Simpsons staff want to remove him, it's their own decision to make. If there never was another sign it's time for the Simpsons to end, it's that it's outliving its own culture and sense of humour.

[@pkkingcrimsonrequiem1332]

You know, it's funny that you mention that disclaimer. When Warner Bros. had the Tom And Jerry Golden Collection coming out, they wanted to create a complete, uncut, chronological, and remastered DVD and Blu-Ray set of the series. Vol. 1 came out and was a godsend compared to previous editions. When Vol. 2 was announced, people found out that they removed two shorts from the collection, those being Mouse Trouble (1948) and Casanova Cat (1951) (which both were also omitted from the previous Spotlight Collection sets on DVD). Understandably, people were angry, someone at Warner Bros. said: "Warner Bros. Home Entertainment carefully monitors all content it plans for release. While undertaking a review of "Tom and Jerry: The Golden Collection Volume 2," the company felt that certain content would be inappropriate for the intended audience and therefore excluded several shorts." By doing this, they effectively destroyed a hope for a complete collection. And not to mention the hypocrisy behind this. The first volume had the same exact disclaimer that you said. So, WTF? The racially stereotypical jokes of those two shorts are no better or worse than the ones featured in volume 1.I think that removing these two shorts offended people more than if they put them in. Also, the sets were aimed at adult collectors who are probably are well aware of the fact of what was in these old shorts may not be accepted today.And because of this, the dream of owning all of the theatrical Tom And Jerry shorts remastered on Blu-Ray is dead. And just to show you the outrage: www.amazon.com/Tom-Jerry-Golden-Collection-Blu-ray/product-reviews/B008POPRS8

[@TommyDeonauthsArchives]

PKKINGCRIMSON REQUIEM Ω _DON'T_ _YOU_ _BELIEVE_ _IT!_

[@Kanohoro]

Oh geez. I wonder if The Simpsons will evoke a similar reaction with Apu a few years down the road...

[@usermcskull4713]

There's actually been a decent amount of Spongebob controversy, so far

[@Kanohoro]

I guess so, but for different reasons. Primarily because of SpongeBob's vague non-existent sexuality in countries where homosexuality is outlawed. I don't see many people in the first world who are upset with the Sponge.

[@tixontoxin6429]

Remember when The Simpsons had an edge and wouldn’t tiptoe around certain situations like this? This was the same show that tackled depression, bullying and domestic issues all in its first season alone. A shame how much the writing philosophy has changed.

[@SgtTwilight]

Speaking of that, wasn't there already an episode about the ethics of censorship and how theirs no right answer? Not a huge Simpsons guy but I remember people saying an episode like that was one of their best.

[@tixontoxin6429]

Indeed there was. Itchy and Scratchy and Marge from Season 2 did a good job addressing the issue of censorship in a fair way, showing the pros and cons of both sides. It’s ultimately left up to the viewer to think about the issue themselves and come to their own conclusion, sparking a dialogue.

[@TommyDeonauthsArchives]

Tixontoxin 64 Seems like such a long time ago... oh wait...

[@thematt523]

Well, because back then they actually HAD something to say.

[@maakujiten3812]

@odblog Not really. Nostalgia can color the quality of the episodes. It can't change the plot. From sexual harassment to basic ethics to censorship, the Simpsons did tackle those issues. What's it tackling now? IPhones, and Random celebrities. The topics did change. I might sound like a butt-hurt fanboy (and might be one), but there was an actual change between early Simpsons and now.

[@Spanishdog17]

"Bart picks up the Art of War as a strategy to get back at his father for not letting him go to the Minecraft convention parody convention" Now I'm super happy that I haven't seen a Simpson's episode past season 10.

[@koichidignitythief7429]

It got unwatchable around 2010. There’s some episodes worth watching after season 10

[@quiethere45]

I would say around 2005ish it started to get awful to me

[@kylecampbell565]

Spanishdog17 well the movie is pretty good

[@legoguy016]

Spanishdog17 SIMPSONS DID IT! They did a much better version of the “Homer getting back at Bart plot” in “Brother From Another Series”.

[@thematt523]

Season 11 and parts of Season 12, and one or two episodes of Season 13 are decent. But it’s obvious the show should have wrapped up at any point from season 8 to 11. Some defend the Simpsons saying that they had trouble adjusting to the end of the 90s and we should go easy on them. No...when a show is out of ideas and can’t adapt or evolve, that’s a reason (hell, THE reason) for it to end.

[@CaptainJZH]

The longer I look at that thumbnail the more Marge’s face creeps me out.

[@PIEGUYRULZ]

Yeah the straight on view of the characters is always freaky.

[@mikeburnsy6492]

That's Lisa

[@mikeburnsy6492]

+PIEGUYRULZ please review ipartywithvictorious & Danger Games

[@CaptainJZH]

Mike Burnsy Look closer at the background.

[@VidyaBros1]

I honestly stopped caring about The Simpsons after the movie came out 11 years ago. I'm just here because I love PieGuy's channel and his videos. He's a great critic.

[@luniperstellones3364]

Vidya Bros. Me too. The first eight seasons are still amazing, especially season six.

[@VidyaBros1]

Luniper Stellones I agree. I know the general consensus is the first I think 8 or 9 seasons are the best ones. Btw where I stand on this issue is that people need to learn to laugh at themselves and have a sense of humor. We live in a society where everybody gets offended and all pissypantsy over any little thing. I of course mean SJWs. They have many other stereotypes in the show and I'm not offended at the fat stereotypical characters. Why is it that it's okay for the other stereotypes to be in the show but having 1 Indian character is not okay? And for somebody who is a comedian to get offended by a fictional character almost 30 years after the show has been around for, yeah too late, dumbass. If you're a comedian, you need to learn about other senses of humor and to laugh at yourself even if the stereotypical character is not an actual real life representation of how Indian people are in real life. If a comedian cannot comprehend that and that it's a joke, I say "Unplug your mouse and keyboard and get off the internet." If anybody finds it racist that they have an Indian character, they're the ones who are racist. South Park for over 20 years have been getting away with offending everybody and nobody cares about that. They made the hardest difficulty in Fracture But Whole be that your skin is darker. I think that's funny. If it was somebody else who did that, people would be getting offended by it. But because it's South Park, it's totally fine. They leave absolutely nobody out and make sure to make fun of everybody equally. They make fun of black people, spanish people, white people, jews, christians, atheists, scientologists, homosexuals, transgenders, lesbians, asians, middle eastern people, they just don't care. And it's all for parody. I don't get why it's different here :/ .

[@luniperstellones3364]

I'm not even Asian, so I may not get it as others would. To think, getting too sensitive has been a problem these days. Im hispanic and I havent been offended bu this show. One reason season six is my favorite is because it has my favorite episode, Lisa's Wedding.

[@KirbyMario12345_939]

Same here. I haven't watched Simpsons in a long time and a lot of the significant stuff they've changed has annoyed or upset me, such as finding out recently that not too long ago, the original Fat Tony died. (The character, not the actor)

[@KaiserMattTygore927]

Same.

[@BigA207]

Itchy, Scratchy, and Marge did a much better job with this kind of subject matter, but then again it was in the Simpons's golden age.

[@SoraFan23]

Yeah and it really goes to show you how the new Simpsons as lost their way and they forget what made them successful in the first place.

[@beta511ee4]

SoraFan23 Your opinion, m8.

[@halfdemonprince]

If I were a writer on the show I’d respond to the controversy by saying, “Look, we know Apu is an Indian stereotype. However, he’s also a beloved and long running character that’s been with the show for almost 30 years. We can’t just get rid of him or change his character. We tried doing that with Skinner and that didn’t turn out well. If Apu being on the show brothers you that much, then maybe you shouldn’t watch the show anymore.”

[@Rubberman202]

It certainly is a "cowardly response", especially since I feel they didn't need to address it in-series at all. This could have remained behind-the-scenes while the writers and Hank Azaria deal with the issue, an issue which, while prudent, didn't really set the world ablaze or anything. Sure, there were some debates online, but it didn't seem to have that many noticeable impacts on either The Simpsons or it's audience as a whole. Really, they could have just ignored the whole thing and used their longevity to justify what they did, instead of acting like they're under fire from these people who had some legitimate reservations about the character of Apu but aren't really demanding immediate change or even removing the character entirely. In fact, I'd almost go so far as to say the writers are trying to use the audience that still watches The Simpsons to fire back against these "Criticizers" rather than deal with the issue themselves... but that would be cynical, and they wouldn't resort to doing that, right?

[@CommaV9414]

The Simpsons late on fads? Nooo waayy

[@TommyDeonauthsArchives]

Wauser 🇺🇸🇨🇦 (burp)

[@jennifercorbett8640]

Ironic, considering they've predicted every future event in history

[@SuperGamer61499]

I find it an interesting debate in itself. And one I feel that they should of just made an episode about. Would Apu be considered racially insensitive? I mean, they could mention how early Disney movies had racial stereotypes of black people. Or even something like the whole Native Americans from Peter Pan. I think the way you describe it is that they're side stepping the issue itself. Even if they disagreed they should of made the episode about that conclusion. At least it be something. I think to shoehorn it in the middle of a random unrelated episode is really telling that The Simpsons creators really don't understand where culture is in the year 2018. I'm sorry to say, (And you can call me an SJW all you want) but this is not 1989 guys. Things can change. Agree or disagree is not the point. The point is that The Simpsons is still going on. And it hasn't updated with the times for the better. I just think, "What is the point of these recent episodes anymore? What even are you trying to say in general? And why is still going on? Who's watching The Simpsons still in 2018 asides really dedicated fans?" It is disappointing to see modern Simpsons in general. I can't say I ever watched the show, but I know it use to be really solid. With many memorable and iconic moments. And then you watch these recent episodes and you think, "What even is the point anymore? :(" Family Guy at least you can say riles up certain people. Spongebob you can say has found something recent to call it it's own for the old fans. What has The Simpsons done that has improved the show since those years? Not much from what I know. Be honest. Does anybody on here care about modern Simpsons anymore? Pieguy, do you care about The Simspsons in it's current state? Probably not.

[@dawnwayfinder]

Just reading the first sentence of your comment somehow made me imagine an episode plot where someone new moves into town and is horrified by the sheer amount of walking stereotypes in Springfield. In an attempt to better the townspeople, the townspeople end up miserable as they feel that they can't be themselves at the risk of perpetuating their associated stereotype. And at the end they finally snap and then show the moral of the story.

[@adamkalb1]

I actually started to like modern The Simpsons after Springfield Splendor. The Simpsons may not be great, but it's still way better than Rick and Morty in its 3rd season, where the entire show has dropped in quality to be just as bad as the 6th and 7th episodes of its first season. April 21, 2018, 11:53pm

[@icecreamhero2375]

Anything is better than Rick and Morty that show sucks

[@CM-ne9ej]

lol Rick and morty season 3 was far better than modern simpsons. at least that show has SOMETHING going for it

[@icecreamhero2375]

I watched several episodes of Rick and Morty. Only 1 and 2 and its awful. It isn't funny in the slightest it's just excessively weird,boring, and really dark. And some idiots like to say it's deep when it is really low brow. The episodes rarely get a chuckle out of me. Honestly most of modern Simpsons is really good in my opinion the only bad seasons are 28 and 29.

[@CrowRider1999]

Honestly, if the writers actually wanted to respond to the criticism, I could see them doing better in one of two ways: 1. Give a statement about it. Like you said, they could’ve stated that they’re still deciding what to do with Apu. They also could’ve said whatever they’re stance was on the issue as long as it was professional and civil. OR 2. Make an actual episode centered around a similar issue. Maybe have someone make a documentary on some character on some in-universe show that seemingly represents a stereotype and have a debate happen throughout Springfield. Lisa would be forced in it somehow since she’s usually the “soap box character” and try to analyze the character being debated about. I know characters can be used as monikers for your opinions, but this is so unsubtle and bland that it just fails. I don’t watch the Simpsons as much as I used to, but I could tell why people hated that clip. I’m not sure if option 2 would work with this situation, but I feel like it would be better than freezing the episode halfway through just to put a “Hurr-de-hurr, we don’t know!” response in with the subtlety of a freaking mallet!

[@icecreamhero2375]

They should have made fun of the haters Ala teen titans go and Family Guy.

[@KeybladeMasterAndy]

Crow Rider They may make an episode later, but the message didn't strike me as being a non-answer the way PieGuy claims. Even the picture of Apu is captioned "Don't have a cow, man!".

[@zmbdog]

The picture of Apu even being onscreen in the first place just highlights how little the creators think of their audience. They're basically saying "You're TOO STUPID to get it so here's a picture of what we're talking about" and in a reference already as subtle as a slap across the face with a 2X4. Using Bart's catchphrase with it just adds another layer of the kind of smarmy, insulting "humor" they've specialized in since the "Behind the Laughter" episode, if not earlier. Earlier I'm sure but that episode was just littered with this kind of garbage.

[@zmbdog]

You really let them drill that meaningless notion into your head, huh? It'd be a meaningless statement if true because it would only imply a copacetic relationship as we don't owe them shit either. But it's false regardless because they owe the entire existence of the show on their audience. Not to mention their salaries which are determined largely by the ad revenue the show generates, which itself is determined by the size of the viewing audience. Not to mention the fact that we also pay for cable/satellite services which the networks get point participation in. So at the very least, they owe their incredibly patient and bafflingly loyal audience... _effort_ . Some kind of _care_ taken in trying to produce something of at least a little "quality". Aside from the film, I haven't seen honest-to-God effort in the Simpsons for at least 15 years.

[@zmbdog]

@odblog First, no sense of entitlement other than being able to watch what I want and voice my opinion on what I want. Just because that opinion is not shared by you it doesn't equal entitlement on my part. Second, "haven't earned anything"? Sorry, I can barely hear you way up on that pedestal. You were saying something about entitlement? Thanks for adding that last sentence though. I don't know why you did since it makes no sense in context to this thread (I'm supposed to be earning _what_ from _whom_ exactly? ) but I'm in awe of how you demonstrate your own judgmental, arrogant nature in two short sentences meant to attack someone else's character.

[@fortblocks]

What an odd title for the next Seddie episode you're reviewing.

[@TheodoreAWatts]

This is why I have a lot less respect for current Simpsons: Most of those stories are stories we’ve seen before, none of those “new” stories never worked and the staff cannot attempt to succeed. Also, the Apu controversy never got me.

[@usermcskull4713]

'' Most of those stories are stories we’ve seen before'' To be fair, every show that gets 10+ season does tend to unintentionally rip off/reuse past episodes (heck, Spongebob did it in it's third season.)

[@TommyDeonauthsArchives]

Power of L but the Simpsons... has ran on for way too long.

[@TommyDeonauthsArchives]

Theodore A. Watts Did you forget about how they worship pop culture during these seasons.

[@TheodoreAWatts]

Actually, no. But I’m aware of what happens to shows that get more than 9 seasons when it comes to storytelling

[@usermcskull4713]

+Tommy Deonauth's Archives I'm aware, no sitcom should ever be on the air for 20+ seasons

[@4snekwolfire813]

Nice default text at 0:00 Definitely like it's LOREM IPSUM or anything! lol

[@samhill4294]

2:36 I think the joke is that Minecraft KZbinrs reuse the same ideas and concepts so much, it's hard to tell between one and the other.

[@thelionsmane3032]

It’s just a bad episode. IMO, the apu controversy is ridiculous, they addressed it like two years ago in a full episode devoted to it. Apu as a character has always been smart, hardworking, and beloved by the community, but God forbid a brown person has an accent related to their home country and their job is at a convenience store.

[@joegreen3802]

The Lion's Mane agreed

[@thematt523]

It’s more the issue that he was played by a white actor, and was the ONLY Indian in pop culture.

[@adamkalb1]

Which episode? March 17, 2019, 12:37pm

[@THICCJohnny]

In my opinon, the right thing to do about the Apu controversy is to end The Simpsons 20 years ago.

[@BrendanBarney]

Really, I think The Simpsons should end already. Fox is seriously milking it dry at this point. And considering Disney’s now the head of the supposed show, that’s a clear sign that they should let it die, aside from the horrible stories.

[@TommyDeonauthsArchives]

What can you (annoyed grunt)?

[@doctorawesomeness1997]

I hope that season 30 will be the end of the Simpsons.

[@TASprocudtions454]

According to the crew, it’s supposed to be. However, that’s what they said about seasons 22 and 25

[@KaiserMattTygore927]

It won't. they'll figure out some way to let the zombie live.

[@nitrosherbert888]

What is season 30 is the last bad season in from then on out it's good I can only dream

[@kylecampbell565]

Doctor Awesomeness I believe Matt Groining (or however you spell it) said in a 2003 interview he doesn’t think there’s much left for the Simpsons but Fox are the ones who decide when it ends

[@granda3649]

I'm from the future. The Simpsons got renewed for Seasons 33 and 34. I'm guessing they ain't stopping until they get 800 episodes.

[@OnekiKai]

It's a...SCUMSONS episode!

[@TommyDeonauthsArchives]

OnekiKai B'oh.

[@pie7956]

Or simpscum

[@KlaviceGavin]

Admit it, it's modern Simpsons. They stopped caring a loooooooooooooong time ago. I think that's part of the annoyance of the show. They wouldn't have an entire freaking page of We're Still Relevant Dammit on TV Tropes which is covered with modern Simpsons dialog and things. Please review more modern Simpsons Episodes maybe some really bad ones that aren't as well known as this and Lisa goes Gaga. For a while I didn't understand why people didn't like modern Simpsons as I guess I watched the diamonds in the rough, but with this season especially, wow the show has gone downhill.

[@kylecampbell565]

Klavice Gavin I believe I read Matt Groaing (or however you spell his name) stated he wanted the Simpsons to end in 2003 but Fox are the ones who decide when the show ends

[@DuckBilledAtheist]

Apu isn’t a stereotype, stereotypes have no character of their own. The many episodes dedicated to Apu give him a rich semi-well developed character. Stereotypes exist to simply mock a group based on a few characteristics.

[@therealseanw.stewart2071]

Yeah, honestly I think the Apu controversy is stupid. The character himself is just a charming, humorous deconstruction, just like every other character on the show, pretty much. There are other blatant stereotypes, like Cletus the Slack-Jawed Yokel and Bumblebee Man. No one had a problem about it in the 90s, so why now!? God society is just so butthurt and stupid nowadays. -.-

[@adamkalb1]

I remember Atrocity #13.5 when Mr. Enter said "If you made Pepe Le Pew today, you'd be admonished for creating a rapist in a cartoon." except that Apu is nothing like Pepe Le Pew, so this doesn't parallel well with that. June 6, 2018, 11:25pm

[@OptimusPhillip]

Maybe I'm missing something, but I never saw Apu as racist. All I can see about him that could be considered racist is that he's explicitly Indian, has a strong Indian accent, and works at a convenience store. Maybe I'm just ignorant to a lot of Indian stereotypes that he embodies, but to me he felt like a reasonable portrayal. And if I am being ignorant in some way, I encourage additional input.

[@koichidignitythief7429]

There’s more jokes about him being a cheapskate con artist than jokes about him being Indian.

[@tidepodpadthai2633]

Raj from The Big Bang Theory is Indian, and they make lots of jokes about him being Indian, but no one cares about that, apparently.

[@daliborjovanovic510]

I think Apu is the perfect character to represent how the Simpsons as a whole is a relic of the 90s that has long since worn out its welcome. The thing about portraying people of color and other minorities in media is that society is evolving at a more and more rapid pace, and what would have been considered progressive and representative 20 years ago seems shallow and patronizing by today’s standards. To the show’s credit, they did try early on to explore Apu as a character, they tried to make him an authentic representation of Indian-Americans and tried to incorporate a lot of details about Indian and Hindu culture in his character. But at the same time, Apu is a token character that was conceived in 1990, a time when it was still cool to have a token character whose personality and role in the show, especially in a comedy, was heavily rooted in the “haha, it’s funny because it’s foreign and foreigners are weird” mentality of the time. And as we got more and more Indian characters in animation who were increasingly more nuanced, Apu wound up becoming more and more dated and stereotypical by contrast. And this isn’t like the Speedy Gonzales thing, where it was Warner Brothers who assumed Speedy would be viewed as an offensive by Mexicans, but Mexicans actually really liked the character. Apu is the opposite, where it is real Indian-Americans who have issues with him, while it is the Simpsons staff, including the show’s very white creator Matt Groening, who are trying to dismiss it. When asked about the Apu controversy in an interview Groening gave a rather brief and dismissive response, simply comparing the former to the moralistic busybodies (a.k.a real-life Helen Lovejoys) who gave the show crap and tried to get it off the air in the 90s, because it wasn’t a paragon of wholesome, American family values. Apu is far from the only cartoon character from the 90s to fit this particular mold, but with most other examples, their respective shows ended a long time ago and most people simply shrug them off as “Well, it was a different time. They are kind of stereotypical by today’s standards, but I commend the show for making a genuine attempt at representing people of color at a time when tv shows tended to have monochrome casts”. I’m pretty sure people would have the same opinion about Apu, and some would even admire him as the character that essentially ushered the representations of Indian-Americans in animation, but since the Simpsons is still going, Apu is stuck between a rock and a hard place. His characterization, as well as the fact that he’s voiced by a white actor, is growing more and more abrasive to modern sensibilities but at the same time, the show is forced to remain stagnant, keep everything the same as it was back in 1989. As cheap and as much of a cop-out as their response in this episode was, they do kind of raise a valid point. And I think there is only one answer to this questions. Lisa: What can you do? Me: Cancel the Simpsons. You’ve milked them dry for 30 years and the show has nothing more left to say. Just let America’s (former) favorite sitcom family finally rest in peace.

[@albertoandroidain]

That moment in which Teen Titans Go make more clear "attack the critics" moves than the Simpsons Nice review, Pieguy! I do agree with you that this controversy should be dealt with by having the character of Apu himself involved. Maybe by having him realise that he has many stereotypical personality trades and asking Homer for advice on how to keep them without making them offensive, or maybe finding an old friend of his that is a very responsible and unique person and decides to follow him as a role model; or perhaps have both situations happen to him and have him decide what move he really wants to make. Either way,I definitely think their actual response was pretty weak

[@BlueKunai]

The fact of the matter is that Apu is an exaggerated stereotype in a show full of exaggerated stereotypes. While there is a broader cultural debate that could be had about whether or not his character can be interpreted as racist, it doesn't change the fact that he is a caricature like everybody else in this universe. In good satire, the idea should be that everyone is worthy of ridicule. That we can laugh at many hyperbolic interpretations, but suddenly turn our heads to another and say "No, this one is off limits. You can't touch that" just seems disingenuous.

[@HEYBUDDYMAN86]

Apu, from what I remember so please take my opinion with a grain of salt, has a little bit of both racially insensitive stuff in his accent and some of his actions, but he was given plenty of episodes to show that he’s more than that. He’s had episodes where he’s ran from an arranged marriage his parents set up and much more. And while I know that people will say stuff like “that’s a racial stereotype”. And from what I’ve heard (and I’m not an experienced person in this subject, but I’ve done some looks into it) it’s not that uncommon for an Indian family to set up an arranged marriage for their sons/daughters. From my perspective and how I see it, surface level Apu is. If you look into his character, he’s deeper and actually a representation of that reality and not just a stereotype. Now, as I keep saying, don’t take this as me saying that I know for a fact he isn’t, I’d be open to seeing both sides as I haven’t actually seen those episodes in years and I’m not an expert in Indian culture.

[@thomaswest4033]

Xell I appreciate the honesty. I personally do like apu. And as a child I didn't realise it was a racial stereotype. But he is. He's one of the only Indians in television and despite a few episodes we don't see much else. He's a stereotypical Indian played by a white guy written by non Indian guys. Essentially Indian-face.

[@alexklepp6479]

Excellent review and good job tackling this subject.

[@tidepodpadthai2633]

Some people - "Apu is a stereotype!" Me - And Homer isn't? (dumb dad stereotype) Bart isn't? (misbehaving class clown stereotype) Milhouse isn't? (nerd who gets beat up a lot stereotype) The list goes on, and on, and on.

[@supersmashbro596]

apu's been one of the most recurring characters in the whole series. why are we now... after 25+ years having a problem with the guy?

[@dashingtothepoint5745]

I wonder why the Apu Controversy is happening now when the character has existed for 28 years.

[@EWil313]

SJW bitches wanting to be heard.

[@jowens197]

There's more of a space to talk about this now. They probably wouldn't have been heard 20 years ago.

[@koichidignitythief7429]

Because a has-been comedian is trying to be relevant again.

[@SuperGamer61499]

Because culture itself is changing. Whether or not you accept that isn't the point. People have been far more critical about stereotype written characters. And the Apu controversy is just part of that example. I can't say I disagree or agree with it, but it's hard to ignore facts. Our own perception of characters is changing as we get older.

[@crazyluigi6664]

At the very least, we can all agree that The Simpsons' response to that bit in this episode was rather shitty in its own right.

[@splitfries69]

Finally a video where I can hear you without headphones , it took 10 years but you did it. 🤗

[@therealseanw.stewart2071]

Those are some great ideas you got there! Whatever it takes to try to get those writers back on track...although in the case of the Simpsons, which have pretty much run their course a long time ago, sadly that may never happen. Oh well. :( It's also pretty frustrating how cultural progress makes many jokes seem dated in this show, which is unfortunate. I'm with you there. This episode was just stupid, all around.

[@DeepEye1994]

Old School Simpsons: Lisa is upset at Malibu Stacy being a dumb blondie stereotype, and it being a toy doesn't change the fact it's a bad influence. Modern Simpsons: WE MAKE FUN OF EVERYONE SO THERE'S NO PROBLEM, U MAD? LOLOLOLOLOL!!!

[@icecreamhero2375]

Dumb blondes are funny

[@changvasejarik62]

I compare apu to how Yahtzee viewed lollipop chainsaw offensive until you start to think about it. While I can see a problem with the accent and the connivence store job. But he’s a loving husband and father, a computer science genius, a good friend to the Simpson’s family, one of the most sane men in Springfield(which really says something), and most importantly not only was he significant enough to be a main character in the Simpsons hit and run, but he’s friends with Paul McCartney.

[@thomaswest4033]

It's not that every quality is bad. But that à large portion is rooted in racism. I like Apu too, but I can still criticize racism.

[@catholiccontriversy]

I love going back and watching my childhood cartoons, and seeing all the adult jokes I missed as a kid. It makes them even better.

[@pie7956]

Marge: well what am I supposed to do? Lisa: it’s hard to say, somethings that started decades ago and was applauded and inoffensive is now politically incorrect (looks at a picture of Apu) what can you do? Marge: somethings will be dealt with at a later date Lisa: if at all ( both look at audience)

[@RDeathmark]

Personally the best way they could have addressed the controversy to me would have been to have an episode focused on apu and have him going around town interacting with all of the stereotype characters of basically every race and gender to kind of point out how hypocritical the response to apu is just because it happens to offend the person in particular. Point out how apu is a pretty well written and respectable character all things considered naturally by showing his success, his work ethics, his family etc

[@GanonGhidorah]

The problem here is, you're expecting the SJWs to actually accept a logical answer and think rationally about it. But they won't; Apu's racism begins and ends with his skin color and his culture; because God forbid a show created by white people portray a person of color. The problem is, they're treating Apu as if he has no autonomy and only exists to be this one thing, to which, he doesn't. Apu is actually a rather dynamic, rounded character with a wide range of personality. In fact, I'm pretty sure that the SJWs haven't even considered that backstory, and if they had, they'd probably change their positions on him, and uphold him as a SJ Icon. Apu worked very hard in his native India, even going to a well-known and lucrative college in India where he succeeded and excelled, gaining him a scholarship and learning Visa to attend college in the United States. However, because of one way or another, he was not able to succeed in the American Education System and was forced to Leave College. But instead of returning home in disgrace, he decided to stay in America, earned his citizenship, and has had an actual career - which is more than the SJWs ever had. How about the fact that Apu is a Vegetarian; that has nothing to do with his Indian Cultural Identity. There is so much more to Apu. And yet, these people only see him as a Color; so who are the real racist ones?

[@brycefourn2001]

Great review!

[@ArtieRaccoonReviews]

12:35 Honestly if The Simpsons decided to change up the format to be two 11-minute segments, it could keep things fresh

[@adamkalb1]

Since Apu's only appearance in this episode was the part where his octuplets made a chair with their Tunnel Craft costumes, there was no climax in the Tunnel Craft convention and NGRGU did nothing you told us it could have done with Daniel Radcliffe relating to Harry Potter books, they're clearly just...a ghost of an idea from an earlier draft. Maybe it was just too good to be true since there wasn't time for more than 2 drafts of this script. There are better places in this episode other than Tunnel Craft for both Apu and Harry Potter. Otherwise, I'd like to know why else they even had DR in this episode in the first place. July 10, 2018, 7:31pm

[@amethyst4392]

It's honestly not really surprising that a show that was created to rebel against 90's TV sitcoms dipped in quality after the 90's ended.

[@somedude9528]

It was actually made to rebel against the TV Sitcoms from the 80's - Stuff like Full House and Facts of Life.

[@booklover4330]

Wow! Pieguy doing a video on The Simpsons? Cool, but it's this episode, oh boy! Would actually like it if you started doing reviews on a variety of shows, I mean I absolutely love your Spongebob Squarepants videos, I also like to watch your Bakery videos on iCarly, Drake & Josh and the like, but it's also nice when you do videos that have nothing to do with those videos, because you don't do videos outside of those that often. Love your videos, so it's always nice to see a video of yours, no matter what it is; but it's nice when you do random videos like these as well!

[@SlipsSC]

Here's what they can do: End the show now. They know that it's basically garbage now, so why not do away with it entirely? No one even cares about it anyway.

[@robanator64]

Honestly this is a modern simpsons episode i dont know what people were expecting, they have been creatively bankrupt for like 20 years or so. I do agree with pieguy on the whole apu issue, he is too iconic of a character to just out right change and or Write out. But at the same time he is a product of the times he was made in, honesly the only thing i will say on the matter and it has been my optinon about the simpsons for a long time. Just end the show already it has out lived its cultural relivence for a long time now.

[@robanator64]

Reagan McNeely that is true, from a business perspective there is no real reason to stop the simpsons it makes them money regardless of actual quality. They can keep churning out bad to mediocre episodes forever. I am more or less coming from a creative/artistic perspective.

[@TommyDeonauthsArchives]

robanator64 Bullhonky. Futurama got cancelled twice and people are still buying merchandise of that show.

[@skynet6822]

another great video!

[@icecreamhero2375]

I love Apu and every character in the show is a stereotype its a cartoon its what they do. People complaining about him are idiots. Name one cartoon that isn't stereotypical you would be hard pressed. Also this was a pretty bad episode. Bart copying the book in the episode wasn't very good I've seen him do way worse. His best prank is when he flooded the gym at school in the ADHD episode. They should try to up the anty with Barts pranks and make them bigger and better like they used to.

[@crazyluigi6664]

Basically, don't have a cow, man!

[@bread7908]

Is there going to be a Every Episode Of Spongebob Season 10 Reviewed?

[@bread7908]

andykishore did PieGuyRulz confirm it?

[@fsaenz0125]

Hot Take: Modern Family Guy >>>>>> Modern Simpsons Hell, I cried watching the 300th episode of FG more than I did with the season 29 finale Flanders Ladder which was just a lame sappy reference of Six Feet Under. With that said, I was too nice to this episode. I changed my rating after the Apu situation (which was unwanted), which made me lose respect for Al Jean, Jeff Westbrook and the writers. But yeah, season 29 was a damn mess...watch 5 episodes I'd recommend but avoid the rest.

[@CorazonMexica]

More reasons why the show should have stopped 20 years ago... They just can't handle it...

[@mfroggy1819]

Omg they missed such a golden opportunity for a Harry Potter joke with Daniel Radcliffe

[@AnimatedIdiotGuide]

This reminds me of that one Animaniacs pre-episode message that read "The cartoons you are about see are products of their time. They may depict some of the ethnic and racial prejudices that were commonplace in American society. Those depictions were wrong then and they are wrong now. While the following does not depict Warner Bros view of today's society, these cartoons are being presented as they were originally created, because to do otherwise would be the same as pretending these prejudices never existed."

[@RetroKid2358]

Will you be doing Spongebob Season 10 review project soon?

[@BagelGabe]

I think it's safe to say that Rick and Morty had the best minecraft parody.

[@koichidignitythief7429]

South Park did it first. Rick and Morty even admitted to that in the episode.

[@MysticWolfMagic]

A cartoon character is not gonna ruin someone’s life. At most, it’ll make them roll their eyes.

[@benvigus8705]

I shut off the episode pretty early in. Add in the "response" to the Problem With Apu, and I'm pretty sure I'm done with this show. I completely agree with your stance; they could of done it much better. The worst part is now people are embracing the scene, celebrating that they "put the SJW in his place". Thank you for actually examining it and this really underwhelming episode.

[@crazyluigi6664]

Speaking of that "putting them in their place" bit, they already kind of did an episode like that once. That already kind of felt tacky, if I'm being honest in that regard.

[@StarWarsAddict527]

South Park probably did it better in Season 19.

[@adamkalb1]

I think they actually DID want to do something more with Daniel Radcliffe in an earlier draft of this episode, but...in the full script there was no room for associating him being the star of a successful film series adapted from an equally successful book series. I would still love to know what you can do about something inoffensive that suddenly becomes politically incorrect, like The Princess and the Garden or Apu Nahasapeemapetilon. June 3, 2018, 8:41pm

[@nostalgiaworks5999]

I know that text. That text is considered the "Lorem ipsum" placeholder text that is used as a stand-in until other text is put in. The reason why I'm so familiar with this is that I am certified in web design. The main reason why many pages on a website (say, KZbin) have the same basic structure is because web designers make a template version of the site where all of the words are replaced with Lorem Ipsum. Then, as websites are generated, the template is used and the Lorem Ipsum text is replaced with relevant text by either a robot or through manual means.

[@adamkalb1]

I think you need to review Springfield Splendor. Marge and Lisa were the only plot, and the plot is well-written and well-paced and it was funny. I want to know if it holds up with you. This controversial episode didn't because Homer and Bart's plot was rushed and missed some opportunities and Marge and Lisa's plot touches on stereotypes that have a point without discussing much of it, but at least they went a little bit further than Raising Gazorpazorp. April 22, 2018, 12:59am

[@NokusChannel]

I remember seeing a tweet trying to make an episode about the Apu thing, but done like something that should have done, an episode about Apu, still after so much time, Lisa lost what she was. Like, does the newest writters remember the Stacy malibu episode about how an stereotype could ruin everything if its left like nothing happened

[@adamkalb1]

Despite all the wasted potential in this episode, it's at least watchable and interesting to talk about missed opportunities because it's far less mean-spirited than 3 Scenes Plus a Tag from a Marriage or Flanders' Ladder from the same season. I still find Springfield Splendor, Gone Boy, King Leer, and yes, even Frink Gets Testy to be better Season 29 episodes than this. July 10, 2018, 7:30pm

[@adamkalb1]

7:28 How did I not see this documentary? :( April 22, 2018, 1:01am

[@adamkalb1]

When the producers of The Simpsons have more time after the Apu documentary to really deal with that controversy, they probably will make another episode about that next season. Until then... Well now, it's time to say goodbye to Ned and Rod and Todd. And I'll remind all of you folks, you should be praising God. If you don't, you'll rot in Hell for all eternity. It's all part of God's great love he has for you and me. You all come back now, you hear? July 10, 2018, 7:34pm

[@nerdythespian1212]

I agree with you that the writers of the show should have had an actual stance in this episode instead of whatever they showed. As for the actual debate itself, it's hard to say. As you said, Apu is an iconic character from the Simpsons, and when the show first aired, stereotypes like him were the norm. Now, I think he is a stereotype that comes off as more racist, than a parody of the stereotype. If we're talking about history and it's depictions in the past, I think Looney Tunes has one of the best disclaimers when they show older shorts (note, not word for word): By censoring these cartoons, we ignore the fact they never happened, and stop us from learning from our mistakes. Personally, I find it extremely important to look at art, literature, and entertainment from history while keeping in mind the context of when it was made. Historical context is everything, especially when it comes to the arts. They reflect and have statements about the era itself.

[@Shyguide]

Caroline Slater my take is contract is needed to know if a stereotype is racist or not as well as what's done with it, in Simpson's context where basically everyone is stereotyped there is no problem

[@Xvladin]

Nice lorem ipsum! Didn't know you were a fan of Cicero!

[@suprememeowmix9613]

I couldn’t even make it through the episode, it was that horrendous.

[@suprememeowmix9613]

hit le epic d🅰️🅱️

[@beta511ee4]

paper towel It doesn’t sound that bad.

[@parforet6988]

I found this episode to be a mess. I do find the two plots originating from the same setpiece to be a nice touch. However, the episode doesn't do much with it. The Bart plot wasn't very interesting although it had its moments. It does pick up a bit in the third act but by then it's too late for it to actually make an impact. It just feels all over the piece. The B-plot was kinda cringeworthy with attempted commentary on books and PC. That plot also had no ending at all. Most of the jokes missed for me mainly because of how dumb and nonsensical they were. One big example is Nelson being thrown into the furnace. That made absolutely no sense at all. Like how did he survive that?! I give this episode a D+. If you want to find a recent episode that's actually good, go watch King Leer. It's a pretty decent episode about Moe's past and family.

[@icecreamhero2375]

That was the funniest part of the episode in my opinion

[@parforet6988]

Fixed Fun Wow, if that's true then that explains the poor quality. However at the same time, the writer of this episode has a mostly poor track record imo.

[@icecreamhero2375]

They write all the episodes together and they go through 100 revisions. They have a retreat in a hotel once a year and they pitch episode ideas.

[@icecreamhero2375]

Actually one episode takes all year to make and they make them one year in advance.

[@icecreamhero2375]

They make 24 at once and they are animated at the same time a 30 minute cartoon takes 1 year to make

[@summerjonz]

I can really relate to your idea of looking back on something you liked as a kid, but looking back on it now you realize it's terrible.

[@makerviewr1cn356]

My exact sentiment on this episode is said in the first 20 seconds of this review.

[@kaydwessie296]

"Sure, Ned would get on Bart's nerves" Actually the movie proved Bart and Flanders get along rather well! If anything, Bart's only weirded out by Todd and Rod.

[@boydixonentertainment]

Notes and Thoughts: Because we clearly haven’t had an episode where Marge tries to get the to do something that doesn’t have anything to do with a screen. I can’t really think of many names but I’m pretty sure they’ve used that plot point before. This isn’t the first time The Simpsons have referenced Minecraft anyways. And I’m pretty sure Minecraft was a lot more relevant the last time they did it. I’m not saying I hate Minecraft, but maybe they could have picked something a bit more recent to use for that episode. But maybe not to a point where it immediately makes an episode look dated. Would Fortnite have been a good option? If there’s 2 problems I have The Simpsons, sometimes when it doesn’t start an episode with filler, it solves the episode’s problem(s) too easily or doesn’t solve it at all but everything goes back to normal the very next episode. Bart basically tortures Homer in some way until Bart gets what he wants and goes to the conference. As a way to counter, Homer becomes Ned and annoys Bart until he gives up and that’s what I mean by solving the problem too easily. Take a look at what I said again if you need to, I’m just not sure annoyance is going to stop someone from torturing you that easily. I don’t really have anything to say about Marge and Lisa’s story. It’s more Homer and Bart’s story I wanted to talk about.

[@corncake4677]

At this point, only one thing can save the Simpsons: Steamed Hams 2.

[@aetherswipeplus7301]

Minekumpft- notches book on how he'll create a perfect world

[@adamkalb1]

If you're interested in Daniel Radcliffe because he knows Rupert Grint, then Lilo Pelekai knows Kim Possible. June 6, 2018, 11:26pm

[@mistx7115]

you know what is even worse the Simpsons did a Minecraft couch gag a few years ago

[@apeculiarmingvase3800]

14:30 - It's called "Premature Encapsulation"

[@freakfoxvevo7915]

They seemed to start this episode with the response to the Apu fiasco, and the rest was done in post

[@mathieuleader8601]

Hank Azaria has now stated he willing to stand aside and an influx of Asian-American writers have been now placed on the payroll to correct supposed cultural mistakes

[@SuperCosmicMutantSquid]

If they wanted to address the Apu situation, why not make the episode ABOUT Apu and not just suddenly drop that into the episode as if we're supposed to get the point? The controversy is about HIM so why not actually address the situation by having HIM address it in a way to make fun of the film itself? Have Apu going through his own sort of character moment where he wonders if he's done enough when he feels like he's being pressured into meeting a standard that he just doesn't connect with because what other's say and think he is he doesn't see in himself, or something to that line? Why not do that? It would have been pretty funny given it would have also poked fun at the film by having Apu on screen as much as possible so everyone would see exactly what the whole controversy was about which is an exaggerated character in a show about other exaggerated characters and one of the smarter ones at that.

[@Genin99]

There was also an episode where Bart gets obsessed with NotBakugan. Yes Simpsons made Bakugan jokes.

[@joyeswinderman3845]

My problem with the episode, besides...everything else...was the fact that i didn't even know about the whole Apu controversy until I've seen this video, so when I first saw the episode it seemed so random. Like, I didn't know if they were telling a joke, or a reference, honestly my first thought was that maybe the voice actor died or something...I agree with you that if they were going to address the problem, they should've either made an entire episode about it or made their stance clear instead of what they actually did

[@MrRobotGuyHD]

I also hate this episode

[@munromister777]

Oh no! The Simpsons is doing stereotypes?!?! That's so surprising! It's not like every character in the show is a stereotype, and people shouldn't take the stereotype seriously, since the show doesn't, unlike how Family Guy does. It'd be like complaining about Token in South Park. It's the point of everything.

[@paulpavlus6664]

Now that you mention it, I think this episode is a SCUMSONS episode. and so are a few other modern episodes(which I should tackle later) All and all resulting in SCUMSONS seasons!

[@jaxlilman8857]

Personally, I think the whole Apu controversy was blown out of proportion. But then again, I'm just a white cis male raised in a Republican household. What do I know?

[@MovieMadness23]

was anyone able to translate the text in the video? if so what does it say? if it even says anything at all

[@pheunithpsychic-watertype9881]

Im mexican and ive never found bumblebee man offensive. Heck none of my family or friends or friends relatives ever did. Plus to find him offensive is to find Mexico's greatest comedic icon offensive which bumblebee man was created after.

[@entertainer_ev2747]

6:50 For me that's The Magic School Bus.

[@FixTheWi-Fi]

I think the Username joke is that since they're known by a username for his gameplay, the guy doesn't know what he looks like IRL.

[@YujiUedaFan]

This episode is my version of Principal and the Porper.

[@SlipsSC]

I dont know where else to say this, but I need help coming up with a middle ground for the Apu debate. I'm not sure what to think about it and I'm not sure if I have to participate in it. That's the reason why people wouldn't want others to talk about it. They don't want to have a stance. Imo they don't have to be involved but I want to see what you think.

[@stormshadowproductions1660]

Are you going to do next SpongeBob season soon?

[@MrRobotGuyHD]

Stormshadow Productions he’s working on it

[@stormshadowproductions1660]

MrRobotGuyHD Ok.

[@MeNowDealWIthIt]

In a his anniversary video, IIRC, he said December.

[@stormshadowproductions1660]

MemeNowDealWIthIt Ok.

[@MsBleech6000]

The simpsons equally make fun of every stereotype. Case closed

[@LukeVaughn__]

6:58- *THUMP!*

[@kartoonfanatic]

It's worth mentioning that the writers of the Simpsons at this time are (for the most part, IIRC) not the writers the show had when Apu was introduced. These new people have free reign to do whatever they want with the characters now that they are in the saddle, including that one, and given how much they care about the show, as you mentioned back in the 600 episode rant, you'd think they would say more/do more, knowing what we know now. Problem is, addressing the issue head-on is a double edged sword. They don't want to piss off people who think there was nothing wrong with Apu in the first place because the status quo bullshit, and if they don't address Apu correctly, they'll piss off the people who do have a problem with him. They don't want press at all, so why they even addressed the Apu controversy at all makes no sense.

[@larrychilders6599]

I say they should keep Apu around until his VA's death, then replace Apu with Sanjay or Ramshed

[@kailiahseekings]

14:35 Bart face