TV SERIES REVIEW
Futurama: Season 12 (Episodes 1-6)
TV-14 -     

Genre: Animation, Adventure, Comedy
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 10 x 22m episodes (episodes 1-6 screened for this review)
Director(s): Matt Groening
Writer(s): Matt Groening, David X. Cohen
Cast: John DiMaggio, Billy West, Katey Sagal, Tress MacNeille, Maurice LaMarche, Lauren Tom, Phil Lamar, David Herman
Where To Watch: season 12 of Futurama will premiere on July 29, 2024 on Hulu

RAVING REVIEW: FUTURAMA SEASON 12 splashes back onto the screen, delivering a well-crafted blend of humor and future-focused satire that has long been the series' hallmark. Under the guidance of creators Matt Groening and David X. Cohen, this new season reinvigorates its beloved characters with sharp wit and fresh, engaging narratives, sure to appeal to long-time followers and those just tuning in. With season 12, the meta, real-world humor is more palpable than ever!

The season starts with a self-referential take on modern-day NFTs in “The One Amigo” and a dive into the craziness behind them. I feel this episode may be a bit of a stretch for those who don’t understand NFTs to appreciate fully, but as always, the series captures that same charm they always do, even while diving into complex themes.

In "Quids Game," we see Fry revisiting the games of his youth, now reimagined as deadly trials set by alien invaders. This story cleverly marries nostalgia with sharp cultural satire, highlighting FUTURAMA's ability to stay relevant and edgy.

The narrative arc in "The Temp" explores themes of identity and existence through a comic lens as Fry's life is hilariously hijacked by a mysterious temp worker. This plot twist perfectly exemplifies how the series blends the absurd with the relatable, making the bizarre scenarios poignant.

Episodes like "Beauty and the Bug" and "One is Silicon and the Other Gold" continue to address contemporary technological anxieties. Bender becomes a bug-fighting matador, and Leela navigates the complexities of befriending a jealous artificial intelligence, showcasing the show's knack for reframing today's tech concerns with a humorous twist.

"The Attack of the Clothes" tackles the issue of fast fashion through the Professor's disastrous clothing line, offering a scathing commentary on consumer culture wrapped in the show's characteristic humor.

Visually, the series maintains its classic aesthetic while enhancing the animation for a more vibrant viewing experience. The return of the original voice cast, including talents like Billy West, Katey Sagal, and John DiMaggio, provides a comforting sense of continuity that enhances the connection to the characters.

While the twelfth season doesn't reinvent the FUTURAMA formula, it successfully incorporates contemporary issues such as cryptocurrency and corporate monopolies, providing a fresh perspective on current social challenges.

The season is enriched with heartfelt character development and strategically placed cameos, balancing innovation and nostalgia. This ensures that FUTURAMA continues to resonate with audiences, securing its place as a unique and influential voice in animated series. I can’t wait to see what the remaining four episodes go for!

Ultimately, FUTURAMA SEASON 12 represents the series' enduring appeal. It weaves timely themes into its time-tested humor to create a season that entertains and provokes thought. It is a commendable continuation of the series' legacy, combining the familiar with the new in a way that feels both innovative and true to its roots.

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[photo courtesy of HULU]

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