With The Simpsons now being well on its way to becoming the longest-running show in television history, some can’t help but observe that this summer marks the ten year anniversary of when our favorite Springfield residents made the jump to the big screen. And, in the time since The Simpsons Movie opened in cinemas, those same folks have probably pondered the chances of a sequel.
In fact, the film’s director, David Silverman, told Entertainment Weekly that he’s certainly up for such a thing, but he’s also being a realist:
“I’d love for there to be another one. We’re still a ways away from it. We talk about this and that. We’re thinking it over, but nothing’s happening just yet.…. It’s still daunting because it really knocked the stuffing out of us to do the movie and the show at the same time.”
You know, that actually lines up with stuff I’ve heard for quite some time. Basically, the very same talented people who animate, script and perform voiceovers for the TV show had to pull double duty on the feature film, thus leaving everybody exhausted. Honestly, it might be best if they focus on the enduring series for now and put off their next cinematic outing until after the final episode airs.
From the sound of it, writer/producer Al Jean is certainly in no rush:
“I certainly am cautious about a couple things. I wouldn’t want it to be risky in terms of budget, and I would not want it to be anything that we did purely for the money. I would want it to be a really great movie. I personally feel no need for another one unless it’s great.”
I’d have to agree with him there. As someone who has been a fan of The Simpsons for most of their life and thought the 1990’s were home to its greatest material, I firmly believe there have been bright spots in the time since. Still, that hasn’t stopped others from thinking the plug needs to be pulled. Regardless, even the most devoted viewers have to wonder if another movie is worth attempting unless the creative minds can recapture the old magic.