Another year, another “Treehouse of Horror.” Is it groundbreaking? Rarely. Is it comfortingly familiar? Absolutely. This year’s Halloween outing, “Treehouse of Horror Presents: Simpsons Wicked This Way Comes,” finds Lisa Simpson at a night circus, encountering a mysterious tattooed man who sends her spiraling through three decidedly creepy tales.
First, we’re whisked back to the 1950s, because nothing says Halloween like poodle skirts and paranoia. Then, we hit a “retro-present” – whatever that means. And finally, we’re flung into a dystopian future where prestige TV reigns supreme. It’s a familiar formula: a dash of nostalgia, a pinch of contemporary satire, and a heaping spoonful of future shock, all seasoned with that signature Simpsons wit.
Will this year’s installment reach the heights of classic “Treehouse of Horror” episodes? The jury’s still out. But frankly, the mere existence of a 36th season of this animated institution is a feat in itself. And hey, it’s not like there’s a shortage of material for the writers to skewer, especially when it comes to the current state of the world. So, yeah, I’ll be tuning in.
Tune in to FOX this Sunday at 8:00 PM for “The Simpsons” “Treehouse of Horror Presents: Simpsons Wicked This Way Comes.”