After 30 years, The Simpsons remains one of the most enduring and relevant shows on primetime television. The hit adult animated sitcom was created by Matt Groening, and first aired on Fox in 1989. In retrospect, the early episodes hold up especially well in of situational comedy, but also because of the topics explored. Some of the show's best episodes premiered in season 1.
The best episodes of The Simpsons are obviously funny; for many, the formula for a "classic" The Simpsons episode is the one-liners and comedic timing. Others may find the most value in the look and feel of each production, and how the visual aesthetic complements the character dialogue. But it's not necessarily the most zany episodes that stand the test of time, but rather the episodes that are rich with subtext, and significantly advance the collective character arcs.
With all due respect to The Simpsons season 1 consensus favorites like "Bart the General" and "Krusty Gets Busted," there are other episodes that will arguably hold up better with each ing year. From a 2019 perspective, the most outstanding episodes of The Simpsons season 1 are those with heart.
Simpsons Roasting On An Open Fire
The Simpsons series premiere excels across the board. The opening talent show introduces now-famous Bart one-liners, and a follow-up scene at the Simpsons' home establishes Homer's life-long dilemma: he's just a big kid. Incidentally, "Simpsons Roasting on an Open Fire" sets the mood for the entirety of season 1 through situational comedy and Homer's dark outlook after losing his job. A line such as "Christmas is cancelled" holds up especially well from a 2019 perspective, and the episode's exploration of patriarchal masculinity is undoubtedly ahead of its time. Beyond all the zingers, there's loads of heart and soul in "Simpsons Roasting on an Open Fire" — it's the perfect tone-setter to showcase the series' depth and willingness to push far beyond accessible gags.
Moaning Lisa
The Simpsons' sixth episode confronts The Simpsons's saddest moments. This episode holds up wonderfully in 2019, and concludes with the collective Simpsons acknowledging the complexities of depression, evidenced by Marge's realization that Lisa can't just smile away the blues.
Life On The Fast Lane
The Simpsons' seventh episode hilariously addresses themes of fate and complacency. Marge, rightfully upset with Homer for caring little about true romance, decides to have a little fun and forms a bond with bowling instructor Jacques. "Life on the Fast Lane" shifts from traditional situational comedy to a surrealistic climax, in which Mrs. Simpson and Jacques get intimate during a dream sequence. By focusing on Marge's concerns, The Simpsons season 1 shifts directions once again, and does so by not shying away from the idea that betrayal is a real possibility. A lesser series would lean heavily on blatant sexual humor, but The Simpsons instead pinpoints the core issues that affect this particular marriage story, which makes the character punchlines (and animation) that much more effective.
Homer's Night Out
After concluding with a parody of An Officer and a Gentleman in "Life on the Fast Lane," The Simpsons' next episode features a rejuvenated Homer cutting loose. With "Homer's Night Out," the series returns to its frenetic comedic pacing, with the storyline focusing on thirsty men and female objectification. On one level, the episode touches upon "good ol' boy" masculinity, but Homer isn't your average guy, of course. And therein lies the beauty of the comedic premise: Bart's brand new spy camera captures an embarrassing moment during Homer's night out, which sets in motion a classic episode of The Simpsons that foreshadows a new cultural norm, a world where camera shudders are constantly snapping.
Homer's Odyssey
As the first episode of Homer loses his job, and plans to kill himself. Overall, "Homer's Odyssey" is an emotional rollercoaster, as the despondent Simpson patriarch hits rock bottom, becomes a Springfield hero, and ultimately leaves behind a potential career in politics. In today's world, the Simpsons are symbolic of open-minded people who prioritize familial bonds over individual egos, and somehow make it through together.