Warning: Contains SPOILERS for Futurama season 11, episode 3!
Summary
The binary pun "How the West Was 1010001" cleverly alludes to both "How the West Was Won" and a significant Bitcoin crash in 2018. In this episode, the Planet Express Crew immerses themselves in a futuristic Gold Rush, incorporating various Western themes and elements.
Futurama enthusiasts are well-acquainted with the art of language translation, as the show often incorporates concealed messages and codes utilizing both earthly and extraterrestrial tongues.
The latest installment of Futurama, season 11 episode 3, titled "How the West Was 1010001", has left numerous viewers pondering over the intricate binary jest concealed within its title. The series frequently intertwines scientific and mathematical concepts with allusions to popular culture, resulting in episode titles that possess multiple layers of significance. However, unlike some of its counterparts, "How the West Was 1010001" requires a deeper understanding to comprehend its true essence.
Futurama Season 11, Episode 3 Title's "1010001" Translates To 81 In Binary Code
: The highly anticipated return of Futurama after a decade has delighted fans, as the beloved sci-fi series created by Matt Groening makes a triumphant comeback. Hulu has secured the eleventh season of the show, which has received equal acclaim as its previous ten seasons. Delving into episode 3 of season 11, the Planet Express Crew find themselves trapped in a frustrating debt to the notorious Robot Mafia. Desperate to obtain some quick funds, the gang embarks on a thrilling journey out west to take part in the captivating Bitcoin Rush. This intriguing western-themed episode pays homage to the captivating tales of the Gold Rush, weaving in numerous references and themes. However, the true essence of the episode's title holds far more significance than meets the eye.The title of episode 3 in season 11 of Futurama is a clever play on words using binary code. In order to understand its meaning, the binary code needs to be translated. Futurama fans are familiar with the task of deciphering various languages used in the show, including both real-world and alien languages. Interestingly, the binary code "1010001" translates to the number "81," providing a clearer reference in the episode's title.
"1010001" May Contain An Even Deeper Bitcoin Reference
This translation confirms that the reference made in Futurama season 3, episode 11, "How the West Was 1010001" is to the Western classic film, How the West Was Won. Released in 1962, this epic movie tells the story of pioneers heading west during the Gold Rush. As the Futurama episode is a futuristic parody of this historical event, it is fitting for the episode title to pay homage to How the West Was Won.
Although "How the West Was 1010001" may initially appear to be a Western reference, the translation of the binary code as "81" seems somewhat peculiar. However, there is a deeper significance behind this choice. The episode's introduction reveals a dramatic Bitcoin crash that sets the stage for the ensuing events. Remarkably, the use of the number "81" impeccably aligns with this gripping storyline.
Over the years, Bitcoin has experienced several crashes, but the one in 2018 stands out as one of the most severe. During this crash, the value of the cryptocurrency plummeted by 81%, shedding light on the clever wordplay used as the title of the episode (via CNBC). It may be a mere coincidence, but it appears that the episode creatively merges the concepts of How the West Was Won and a notorious Bitcoin crash from the past, resulting in a perfectly fitting and humorous title for the Futurama episode.