Homer's Phobia

I had been waiting for the Eight Season of The Simpsons to be released on DVD just to own a good quality, complete copy (i.e. not compromised by annoying station watermarks, careless editing to advertisement breaks or having the ending cut short while a voice-over promotes whatever happens to becoming up next on that channel).

The great surprise with the DVD is that it not only looks pin-point perfect, but also includes a highly entertaining commentary track by Matt Groening, the artist/director/production team, and John Waters. You'll see the show through enhanced eyes.

I liked that Homer's Phobia was made with such informed awareness of the stereotypes which persist of both gay men and of the people who refuse to accept them as being OK.

We see Homer quickly forming a trusting, affectionate and purely platonic relationship with John Waters - only to aggressively discard that friendship when he (finally) comprehends that John is gay.

This show is certainly empowering for viewers - both young and old - who know they are same sex attracted, but it also must be the most entertaining, concise and effective program in the history of television for letting the general public know that there is nothing at all to fear about being gay.

Homer's Phobia is packed with memorable lines - such as "You know me Marge - I like my beer cold, my TV loud and my homo-sexuals FLAMING!".

There's no condescension, no lecturing - just high quality talent on show. And the ending rocks!