Springfield Splendor

Springfield Splendor is a terrific Simpsons episode with a really well written plot and plenty of brilliant moments. It is a really inventive episode as we follow Marge and Lisa bringing illustrations of Lisa's school days to life, taking on a really interesting stylistic choice that made for an experience that is vastly different from any other episode.

One thing I will say about the episode is that it could have dived a little deeper in to Lisa and Marge's relationship. It was made abundantly clear that it is troubled, but it felt like they were beating around the bushes, not creating a genuine conflict brtween them.

Martin Short also appears in this episode as one of my favourite guest roles on the show in a long time. Playing a very over the top theatre practioner, he serves as a terrific catalyst for Lisa and Marge's conflict, he puts great energy in to the role. I much prefer when the guest stars play characters, rather than themselves, while there are many great exceptions, it usually makes things more fun and interesting.

Very unique episode. The twenty ninth season has gotten off to a solid start and is taking some exciting risks, Springfield Splendor is of no exception.

Marge and Lisa turn Lisa's sad experience in to a graphic novel turned Broadway show, but they soon struggle with creative differences and ego.