The Simpsons “Moe Goes From Rags to Riches” Review

This was easily one of my favorite openings to an episode of The Simpsons in a long time. I loved the transition from bed bugs to beds in city hall to an all-out dance party at Moe’s bar set to the sweet, sweet tunes of Lionel Richie’s “All Night Long.” A reference to Lionel Richie in pop culture has not brought me so much joy since learning that “Dancing on the Ceiling” was Ron and Tammy Swanson’s song on Parks and Recreation. Actually, The Cleveland Show did a pretty fun bit on “All Night Long” as well. Okay, I’m getting carried away. The takeaway point is that you can’t go wrong with a Lionel Richie reference in a television show, particularly when we actually get to hear the song. And am I mistaken or did The Simpsons take it one step further and actually have a Lionel Richie look-a-like at Moe’s bar? Well played.

The Lionel Richie inspired dance party at Moe’s transitions into a conversation about best friends. Oh Moe, being Facebook friends with Pepto Bismol is so, so sad. To borrow from Bart, it’s sadder than being friends with Milhouse.

Jeremy Irons guest starred on this week’s episode as the voice of Moe’s beloved bar rag. When o’ when does The Borgias return??? We learn that Moe’s bar rag has had a storied existence beginning with demon wool from the restless spirits of sheep murdered by Mr. Burns. Interestingly, tapestries were the rock stars of the Middle Ages. After seeing the world and taking part in a seemingly endless number of historic events, the tapestry finds itself in Springfield as Moe’s bar rag and his best friend. I’m not sure for whom this is sadder. Probably Moe because the bar rag at least realized that its journey was a fall from grace.

In the other storyline, Bart is struggling to make amends with Milhouse after the friends have a tiff. Admittedly, the most memorable part of this storyline for me was how precious Bart looked in his Krusty pajamas. I did enjoy the resolution between the two – that Bart would dominate Milhouse in a manner that would go unrecognized by the latter.

There were a few notable revelations in tonight’s episode, including the fact that Moe is the son of a Yeti. That actually explains a lot. In other interesting revelations, Moe’s Bar is the second closest thing in Springfield to the Algonquin Round Table. The most important revelation, however, was that the bar rag was not Moe’s only friend. A happy end for Moe and the tapestry/bar rag who enjoyed the affections of Santa’s Little Helper.

Although the history of the tapestry went on a little longer than necessary, I’m willing to forgive that because of the Lionel Richie start to the episode.

What did you think of this week’s episode of The Simpsons? Sound off below!