David Mirkin

All of the elements from the previous season combine to present the strongest episodes of the show's run to date. The opening episode features a references to classic film in "Bart of Darkness" and follows up with a literary reference in "Lisa's Rival." Some of the most memorable songs are present in this season, from the Stonecutter's Theme to "See my Vest." The traditional features are also strong, witnessed in one of the more memorable Treehouse of Horror collections and a biting political satire featuring Sideshow Bob. This season gives a glimpse at a potential future for Lisa and the rest of the family and gives slight insight into Marge's family in "Fear of Flying." The most neglected member of the family origin is explored, and Homer's love and sacrifice for Maggie presents one of the most emotionally affecting moment of the season. Trips to Australia, substitute teachers, a comet and a new job for Homer as a clown and Marge as a cop all are other strong moments that are present in this season. The people and the places that have been honed to perfection all contribute to the season's strength, capped by the ambitious season ending cliffhanger "Who Shot Mr. Burns." How far the show has come is evidenced in the always weak clip shows, as the improvements are shown in stark relief.… (meer)

The success of the series is evidenced by the writers increasing boldness as the meta references and the jabs at their home network become more frequent and more sharp. While earlier seasons generally remained grounded in reality, even if the situations strained credibility, this fifth season begins to shift to a more basic absurdity. How this and subsequent golden years season are successful is remaining true to the setting and the characters they have carefully established previously. Arguably the best Sideshow Bob entry is present in "Cape Feare," and two of Homer's best side jobs as musical star and astronaut. Bart likewise is prominent, most memorably as he get a pet elephant; but the exploration of his relationship and rivalry with Principal Skinner are explored in back to back episodes. Marge is featured more than previous seasons, but giving her a gambling addiction and allowing her an independent friendship for a single episode does little to round out the least developed family member (outside Maggie(. Perhaps the most surprising episode of the season is "Rosebud" which manages to present the otherwise villainous Burns in a vulnerable and sympathetic light.… (meer)