The Simpsons: Animated Muslims in "Mypods and Boomsticks"

While this is primarily a film blog, I feel that there are some TV-related issues that are worth discussing.

In a November 30, 2008 episode of the hit show The Simpsons entitled "Mypods and Boomsticks, " the Simpson family get new neighbors, who happen to be Muslim. While Bart befriends the son, Bashir, and Homer gets suspicious of the family and invites them over for dinner to investigate.

In typical Homer Simpson fashion, he insults the family, calling Allah "Oliver" and the Quaran the "Carona," and accuses them of being anti-American. Homer later goes to their house to apologize and discovers what he thinks is a plot to blow up Springfield mall. Turns out the father is a demolition expert overseeing a controlled demolition.

While this episode does not stand out in terms of comedy, the jokes being less inspired than other episodes, the representation of Muslim characters as normal, everyday Americans is refreshing. Even the mother of the family is animated wearing a veil.

The overall moral lesson of learning to understand and accept thy neighbor is somewhat forced and contrived. Nonetheless, it is encouraging to see such a popular show tackle the issue of Islamophobia. The use of comedy underscores the severity of the problem, but makes it more accessible. Muslims on The Simpsons is just a small example of how Arabs and Muslims are slowly permeating all areas of the entertainment industry.

The new kid, Bashir, faces school bullies:


Homer investigates Jack Bauer stlyle:


Videos Courtesy: http://www.hulu.com/