Review: Like a fine wine, 'South Park' keeps getting better with age
Posted Tuesday, July 18, 2023 at 5:02 PM Central
Last updated Tuesday, July 18, 2023 at 5:03 PM Central
by John Couture
In many ways, South Park and The Simpsons share common ground for animated longevity. South Park is the second-longest animated series with 325 episodes sprinkled over 26 seasons, while The Simpsons tops the list with 750 episodes over 34 seasons.
They also share a particular irreverence for just about everything and no one or nothing is spared. South Park is just a bit more mature and potty-mouthed in comparison to The Simpsons. And despite 26 seasons, creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone continue to stay edgy and relevant.
COME ON DOWN TO SOUTH PARK WITH THIS EPIC BOX SET! All episodes from Seasons 21 through 25 of South Park have been packed into this one kick-ass Collector's Edition. It's all here, from Moss Piglets to Time to Get Cereal, to Band in China, Shots!!! and Board Girls. So join Cartman, Kyle, Stan and Kenny as they deal with the seedy underbelly of Social Media, confront the COVID-19 pandemic, correct a long-held misconception about one of their classmates and face the return of ManBearPig! For them, it's all part of growing up in South Park!
South Park, the iconic animated adult sitcom, has never shied away from pushing boundaries and satirizing contemporary issues with its irreverent and politically incorrect humor. The South Park: Seasons 21-25 Blu-ray box set captures the essence of the show's later seasons, showcasing a remarkable blend of social commentary, outrageous comedy, and sharp wit.
This collection spans five seasons, providing fans with over 40 episodes of the show's trademark irreverence. From the opening episode of Season 21 to the conclusion of Season 25, South Park continues to deliver an unparalleled level of satire and biting social commentary. With each season, the show remains true to its roots while adapting to the ever-changing landscape of cultural and political events.
The secret sauce of their success relies on the primitive animation style that allows them to pivot quickly to current events. While it has become a trademark style for the show, it also allows them to provide near real-time commentary on the world around them. And let's be real, there has been plenty of opportunity for poking fun and unleashing satire these last few years.
Another boon for the show has been the release of Paramount+ which allows them to create expanded content for the streamer to poke fun at COVID and the streaming wars. Don't think the irony of poking fun of streaming on a streaming platform isn't lost on the creators nor their audience.
South Park: Seasons 21-25 delves into a wide range of topics, including political correctness, social media, cancel culture, and the rise of conspiracy theories, to name just a few. The show fearlessly tackles these issues head-on, often leaving no stone unturned. It maintains its signature irreverence, combining humor and satire to provide scathing commentary on the absurdities of modern society.
Throughout these seasons, the character development remains as strong as ever. We witness the continued growth of beloved characters like Stan, Kyle, Cartman, and Kenny, as they navigate the chaotic world around them. The show's ability to address complex themes while keeping the characters relatable and entertaining is a testament to its enduring brilliance.
What truly makes South Park stand out is its ability to balance humor with thought-provoking commentary. It challenges societal norms and dares to question the status quo, often leaving audiences with uncomfortable yet necessary discussions. The show's creators, Trey Parker and Matt Stone, masterfully blend comedy with social critique, making South Park a powerful platform for introspection and discourse.
In addition to the outstanding episodes, this Blu-ray set offers a range of bonus features that will delight fans. From behind-the-scenes footage and audio commentaries to deleted scenes, the extras provide a deeper understanding of the show's production process and the minds behind its creation. These added features offer valuable insight into the show's creative journey and enhance the overall viewing experience.
In conclusion, South Park: Seasons 21-25 is a must-have for fans of the show. With its unparalleled blend of humor, social commentary, and audacious storytelling, this collection captures the essence of what makes South Park an enduring cultural phenomenon. Whether you're a long-time fan or a newcomer to the series, this Blu-ray set offers hours of laughter and insight, reminding us why South Park continues to be a force to be reckoned with in the world of adult animation.
South Park: Seasons 21-25 is now available on Blu-ray and DVD.
