The Simpsons Movie turned out to be better than expected. While I'm not going to give away any spoilers (I hope), I just have to say that most of the characters who have ever walked the streets of Springfield are represented here, in one way or another.

The first 60% of the movie were snappy and funny right from the get-go, but as with most movies, the next 30% dragged because there's always a need to create some plot contrivance around the conflicts facing the main characters before the loose ends get tied up in the last 10% of the movie.

*SPOILER ALERT* (Fine, I lied)

While I expected quality jokes (and those were definitely delivered), what I didn't expect to feel was well... sad during a scene where Marge reflects on her marriage. Throughout the 18 years of The Simpsons, Marge has always stood by her man, no matter his flaws, and this time round, we get to see what all of Homer's idiocy has led to.

What was my favourite scene? Strangely enough, nothing to do with the Simpsons family itself, but the one scene where Homer is playing Grand Theft Walrus which involves a tap-dancing penguin. It's so cute and hilarious that I defy anyone not to laugh when they see it. There's also the Disney moment when Marge and Homer are alone in their new home in Alaska. Oh, and of course, Spiderpig! Spiderpig, Spiderpig, does whatever Spiderpig does...

Other great moments:
(When Homer is told he must have an epiphany if not he will be alone forever)
Homer: Bananas are an excellent source of potassium!

Ralph Wiggums (after seeing Bart skateboard naked): I like men now.

Oh, and the most annoying part of the movie? Sitting next to a couple where the girl has clearly never watched an episode of The Simpsons before (what rock does she live under, I wonder) and her boyfriend, happily and gleefully, explaining everything to her throughout the movie. Kids, take it outside, or educate her before the movie. Don't annoy everyone else in the cinema by explaining every joke.