Hmm, well that certainly was a more thorough argument than I was expecting. I'll have to admit that I'd have to agree with you on several points (esp since I still watch the Simpsons and catch Futurama on adult swim).
I agree that Futurama was a far more sophisticated show, definately with regard to it's humor, which is midly less lowbrow. I would point out, however, that The Simpsons does seem to tackle popular opinions and believes in a more current fashion, realizing this is a premise of the show. What I find lacking in Futurama was the ability to relate to as broad of an audience as the Simpsons did/does. This was part of the appeal of Futurama, but as you admitted part of its downfall, too. I do agree that the niche audience attached to Futurama probably is more fanatic than the average Simpsons viewer, however.
So who do I declare the winner? Well both, but for different reasons. I'd watch them for different reasons (to suit my current mood), but if they both were on tv at the same time, Futurama would be watched during the commercials, unless the Simpsons was a rerun.
I understand your position entirely. I'm glad you at least conceded a few points. I can also see why you would watch the Simpsons instead of Futurama if they were on at the same time. I might do the same thing, given that Futurama only ran for a few seasons, whereas the Simpsons has been running for I guess 16 or 17 seasons now (I might be off because I don't pay attention). I really hope Futurama gets put back on the air like they've been talking about. Maybe it'll make as successful a comeback as Family Guy.
I agree that Futurama was a far more sophisticated show, definately with regard to it's humor, which is midly less lowbrow. I would point out, however, that The Simpsons does seem to tackle popular opinions and believes in a more current fashion, realizing this is a premise of the show. What I find lacking in Futurama was the ability to relate to as broad of an audience as the Simpsons did/does. This was part of the appeal of Futurama, but as you admitted part of its downfall, too. I do agree that the niche audience attached to Futurama probably is more fanatic than the average Simpsons viewer, however.
So who do I declare the winner? Well both, but for different reasons. I'd watch them for different reasons (to suit my current mood), but if they both were on tv at the same time, Futurama would be watched during the commercials, unless the Simpsons was a rerun.
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