While fans can complain and debate about the current string of Simpsons episodes, there's no argument to be had for season six. This is one of the best, featuring some of the strongest writing, sharpest humor, and brilliantly constructed parodies. There's not a single dud in this collection.
It's impossible to pick just one, because everything here is flawlessly executed. Many fans will find their personal favorite here (like A Star is Burns, probably the only time a cross-over has ever worked on this level). One of the Emmy nominated episodes, Lisa's Wedding, is a great look at how the family (and most of Springfield) adjusts to future life.
Sideshow Bob makes an appearance, Itchy and Scratchy robots go nuts, Lisa plays hockey, and Mr. Burns is shot in an end-of-season cliffhanger. There's nothing this season doesn't have, and if you're even a mild fan of the show, this is probably the set you should own. It's over 10 years old, yet not a single episode has aged a day. (***** out of *****)
Like the rest of the Simpson sets, the video isn't special. The DVD format itself prevents the studio from avoiding aliasing, which is worse in certain scenes than others. Compression is an obvious gripe; the famous family couch with its deep red tone showcases the formats flaw in annoying clarity. Color is perfect, and the added clarity makes picking up small animation flaws a little easier than on TV. (***)
Every episode is presented in 5.1 surround. This is a major improvement over standard cable. Those low whispers and crowded chatter are easier to hear. It's one of those instances where you'll probably hear something new when you first watch these on DVD after years of cable. There's not much in the way of surround work (or even bass), but it's enough to give these episodes some new life. (****)
Article comments
1 - Tan The Man
Yeah, when I first saw the packaging, I thought it would be incredibly bad.
2 - Nancy
How can any episode of the Simpsons be bad?
3 - Tan The Man
I meant the packaging.
4 - Ronald C McKito
I cant wait to pick this up. I use to watch the early seasons of the simpsons and as I got older I stating missing episodes in season 6 and so on. So this will be a new experince since I'm sure there are some epsisodes I have not even seen yet. Great review and very helpful tip with the box info
5 - Eric Berlin
I do recall this as a great season. It was my senior year of college (I believe) and all would gather Sunday evenings to catch the broadcast.