[7.2/10] Definitely a little mild, but still a good episode. Let this one be a counterexample to all the folks who claim Season 7’s “Marge Be Not Proud” is the first time The Simpsons did a Very Special Episode. Despite a hint of cheese, I actually really like the Bart/Homer story here. Focusing on Homer’s role as a dad, where he’s disinterested, then affectionate, then hurt, and finally accepting when he realizes how far he’s come, is a really good little arc and trajectory for the lovable oaf.
There’s also a number of good laughs. All the bits at the Fatherhood Institute are pretty funny (especially the absurd shark attack), and the ins and outs of Homer’s failed construction projects had me in stitches. Homer’s “homewrecker” accusations are a little silly, but the structure of the episode makes it work. Plus the clear focus on the soap box derby race and Homer as a dad gives the episode some direction and momentum.
Overall, this episode isn’t especially deep, but it’s light and funny and sweet where it needs to be. Not one of the series’s standouts, but still an enjoyable half-hour.
Shout by Mista LukaBlockedParent2022-01-14T07:51:41Z
"Saturdays of Thunder" is a pretty decent episode. While I found the plot cliche and unremarkable, there is some solid humour in this one, especially the material involving the "National Fatherhood Institute".
Overall, pretty fair.