The Simpsons Movie Sequel: A Must-Watch for Fans and Newcomers Alike

Highlights

Making The Simpsons Movie 2 is a no-brainer, as the characters are beloved icons and fans love spending time in Springfield.

In contrast to other movies based on TV shows, The Simpsons Movie stands out with its grander and more expansive storyline. A potential sequel, The Simpsons Movie 2, has the potential to be successful if it brings together a talented team of writers and maintains the first film's winning formula of an engaging plot and a constant stream of humorous gags.

When Disney acquired 21st Century Fox, it obtained a plethora of valuable intellectual property, encompassing Avatar, Alien, Predator, X-Men, Fantastic Four, Planet of the Apes – and, naturally, The Simpsons. Ever since The Simpsons settled into its new corporate abode, rumors have been circulating that the Mouse House will produce The Simpsons Movie 2 to capitalize on its investment. In theory, creating The Simpsons Movie 2 is an obvious choice. The characters are adored icons, fans relish time spent in Springfield, and 2D animation on the silver screen is exceedingly rare nowadays. However, does the world truly necessitate a Simpsons Movie sequel? Merely because Disney has the ability to create a new Simpsons Movie, doesn't imply it should.

What Happens In The Simpsons Movie?

The Simpsons Movie cleverly avoids one of the main pitfalls in adapting a TV series into a film. It manages to stand apart from movies like Entourage, Bob’s Burgers, and Absolutely Fabulous, which often feel like inflated episodes of the TV shows. The Simpsons Movie takes a much grander approach, with a longer and more expansive storyline. When Homer unknowingly contaminates Lake Springfield with his "pig crap" silo, Russ Cargill, the head of the EPA, arrives and encloses the entire town within a dome. Although the plot bears resemblance to Stephen King's novel Under the Dome, the two projects were developed independently. As the townspeople discover Homer's responsibility for the dome, the Simpsons are forced to flee and seek refuge in Alaska. Eventually, Marge has to make the difficult choice of leaving Homer and returning to Springfield with their children. Determined to save the day, Homer has a sudden realization and finds the inspiration he needs.

What Is The Simpsons Movie's Rotten Tomatoes Score?

In numerous episodes of The Simpsons, Homer continuously makes significant mistakes that lead Marge to question her commitment to their marriage. However, these storylines are quickly resolved within the usual 21-minute timeframe. In contrast, The Simpsons Movie takes advantage of its extended 87-minute duration to explore a unique scenario where Homer's error is so catastrophic that it causes Marge to actually contemplate leaving him. For The Simpsons Movie 2 to be successful, it must possess a premise as captivating as the original film's "Springfield in a dome" concept. It cannot rely on a storyline that could have easily been compressed into a standard half-hour episode, as this would contradict its purpose.

The Simpsons Movie received a warm reception despite mixed reviews for the series itself. It garnered an impressive rating of 87% on Rotten Tomatoes, indicating mostly positive feedback from critics. The positive reviews had a significant impact, as audiences flocked to theaters in large numbers to watch The Simpsons Movie. According to Box Office Mojo, the film generated a worldwide gross of over $536 million. If The Simpsons Movie 2 lives up to its predecessor and faces limited competition during its release, it could surpass the billion-dollar mark (although this is highly unlikely in a post-COVID world).

Should There Be A Simpsons Movie 2?

A sequel to The Simpsons Movie has been hinted at since its initial release, with a subtle reference to it within the movie itself. The question arises as to whether the world truly needs a second installment, especially considering the trend of unnecessary cash-grabs in the film industry. While Disney, the company that acquired 21st Century Fox, may see the financial benefit in commissioning a Simpsons Movie 2, recent box office struggles of similar corporate merger-driven movies suggest otherwise. The downward trajectory of the series over the past 16 years, coupled with a dwindling fan base, adds to the skepticism. However, if the potential sequel follows the successful formula of the first movie by assembling a talented writing team and focusing on compelling storytelling, humor, and character development, it could potentially replicate the success of its predecessor, though the odds may be against it.