The Simpsons is gearing up for its 35th annual “Treehouse of Horror” special, and this year, fans can expect a hilarious twist on the popular character Venom. Titled “Denim,” the segment features Homer Simpson in a comical encounter with a pair of alien symbiotic jeans. This year’s Halloween special promises to be the “scariest 35th Halloween special ever,” according to the show’s creators.
During a recent panel at San Diego Comic-Con, series creator Matt Groening, showrunner Matt Selman, and producers Rob LaZebnik, Jessica Conrad, and Tim Bailey shared insights about the upcoming special. They were joined by guest moderator Kevin Smith, who helped facilitate the discussion about the new season and the exciting segments fans can look forward to.
In “Denim,” Selman explained that the story revolves around Homer’s unique relationship with a pair of jeans that possess alien qualities. The segment is described as a “really funny, silly” take on the concept, with the jeans being brought to life through actual stop-motion animation. This animation is being handled by the talented team at Stoopid Buddy Studios, known for their work on “Robot Chicken.” Seth Green and Harv Harvatine from Stoopid Buddy were also present at the panel, showcasing some of the denim puppets used in the animation process. Harv Harvatine mentioned that the production took several months to complete.
The excitement doesn’t stop with “Denim.” The producers also announced a second spooky trilogy titled “Simpsons Wicked This Way Comes,” which will feature stories inspired by the works of Ray Bradbury. Selman described these stories as “dark and funny” and perfectly in line with the Halloween spirit. Conrad noted that this trilogy falls under the “Treehouse Presents” umbrella, and it was inspired by Selman’s readings of Bradbury’s works. The episode will feature guest appearances, including one from the acclaimed actor Andy Serkis.
Interestingly, Groening recounted a past encounter with Bradbury, who had previously criticized the show for borrowing elements from one of his “Twilight Zone” episodes. Groening humorously speculated on what Bradbury might think of the new episode, quipping, “Oh wait!” Selman added a light-hearted comment, hoping that Bradbury’s estate would appreciate the homage.
As it stands, the 35th “Treehouse of Horror” is set to air right after Halloween, while the Ray Bradbury-inspired episode is scheduled for November. The panel also revealed a new opening credits sequence created by guest animator Jorge Gutierrez, known for his work on “Book of Life,” which will kick off this year’s “Treehouse.”
In addition to the Halloween special, the producers teased the Season 36 opener titled “Bart’s Birthday.” This episode will feature a star-studded lineup, including former “Simpsons” writer Conan O’Brien, along with guest appearances from John Cena, Danny DeVito, and Tom Hanks. Selman described the premiere as a “crazy, star-studded” event, emphasizing the boldness of the concept.
Among other upcoming segments, one will explore the theme of division in the country, represented by literal red versus blue monsters in a “Pacific Rim” style showdown. Another segment will parody the hit series “The White Lotus,” humorously titled “The Yellow Lotus.” Additionally, there will be an episode that serves as a spiritual follow-up to the iconic “22 Short Films About Springfield,” but with a unique twist.
During the panel, Selman engaged the audience by asking them to scream, promising that their reactions would be recorded for use in the “Treehouse” episode. The response was overwhelming, resulting in what may have been the loudest scream ever recorded at a Comic-Con panel, leaving attendees a bit hoarse.
The panel concluded with a surprise moment when Groening introduced a video clip featuring Vice President Kamala Harris quoting a famous line from the Season 8 “Treehouse of Horror” episode, delivered by Kodos while disguised as Bill Clinton. The quote, “I say, we must move forward, not backward; upward, not forward; and always twirling, twirling, twirling towards freedom!” added a delightful touch to the event. This clip was reportedly recorded years ago by college students who challenged an elected official to recite a line from “The Simpsons.”
As fans eagerly await the release of “Denim” and the rest of the Halloween special, the excitement surrounding “The Simpsons” continues to grow. With its unique blend of humor, pop culture references, and creative storytelling, the show remains a beloved staple in animated television.
Source: Variety
