Everyone's a critic: 'Simpsons Movie'

Four stars (out of four)

"The Simpsons" has been a staple of my TV viewing since I was a child, so I was thrilled when this show finally came to the big screen.

In reality, the movie was just like a supersized episode of the show, but it was exciting to see these characters on the big screen and for longer than 30 minutes. Of course, as Homer points out early in the movie, it's pretty silly to pay to see something in the theater that you can see on your TV at home for free, but this movie was definitely worth the price of admission.

"The Simpsons Movie" was every bit as witty and clever as the TV episodes. The movie had quite a few references to content from the show, though not as many as I thought it would. As with most TV-to-movie adaptations, the plot involved the Simpsons saving the world, but the writers managed to make that tired story fresh and hilarious.

The movie also maintained the TV show's social commentary theme (eco-mindedness in this case) as well as celebrity voice cameos. I have to say that my only gripe with the flick was the lack of traditional attitude in Bart's character. He was pretty soft and not nearly as mischievous as usual. The movie was a bit more risque than TV allows, but not too offensive, in my opinion. I would definitely recommend this movie to anyone who's ever enjoyed an episode of "The Simpsons."

-- Kendra Eads

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One star (out of four)

I guess this movie finally challenged my age and what I will tolerate at the movies. This is truly a movie for the kids and the young adult group. Homer summed it up well when he said "Why pay for something when you can see it at home for free?"

Homer Simpson is his typical, messed-it-up self, Marge is the peacekeeper, Bart struggles with father issues, Lisa is out to save the world and Maggie is her quiet, cute self. Spider-pig was a big hit for me and, true to Homer's quote, I saw that at home for free before ever going to see the movie on the big screen.

My assumption is that "The Simpson Movie" will make a lot of money just because it's the Simpsons.

-- Barb Gleason