Futurama: Into the Wild Green Yonder DVD (Region 1)

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FUTURAMA: INTO THE WILD GREEN YONDER (DVD MOVIE)


Matt Groening’s sci-fi adventure/comedy series Futurama comes to a typically absurd close with In the Wild Green Yonder, the fourth in a series of direct-to-DVD series that followed in the wake of the animated series’ cancellation in 2003. Yonder keeps in the kitchen-sink tradition of the show and features by cramming as many pop culture references as possible into its already convoluted plotline, from cameos by Family Guy’s Seth MacFarlane and Snoop Dogg to riffs on eco-terrorism, The View and television poker tournaments. All are interwoven into the feature’s main storylines, which concern Fry’s sudden ability to read minds, a massive, environmentally unfriendly rebuild of Mars Vegas by Amy’s parents, and Leela’s admission into a group of radical eco-minded protestors who aim to bring that project to a halt. And if that’s not enough, there’s a threat to the universe as a whole from the Dark Ones, and the summation of various character arcs, including the long-simmering relationship between Fry and Leela. Obviously, In the Wild Green Yonder isn’t the place to start for first-time Futurama visitors; its immense cast of characters--which in one scene, swell to over 250 from the show’s entire network run and all of the features--and elaborate (if ridiculous) mythology will most likely leave most newcomers scratching their heads. Longtime fans, however, will appreciate the return of so many favorite personalities, including Zapp Brannigan and the mysterious No. 9, as well as the wrap-up of sorts provided by the conclusion (although, in typical fashion, it leaves room for a series return or another feature). The humor is spotty in places--Bender’s Big Game remains the best blend of comedy and storyline of the four features--but there are enough laughs to keep die-hards happy. The wealth of special features should accomplish that goal as well; the audio commentary by Groening, executive producer David X. Cohen, and members of the cast and production team is lively and full of anecdotes, while making-of featurettes provide a tour of the Futurama production offices, a gander at guest star Penn Jillette recording his cameo, and tips on drawing various characters. The most offbeat and amusing extras are faux PSAs from Bender and Zapp Brannigan (on movie theater etiquette and romance, respectively), and the producers’ field trip to a zero gravity simulator. --Paul Gaita

Stills from Futurama: Into the Wild Green Yonder (Click for larger image)

Peter Avanzino

Ratings of Futurama: Into the Wild Green Yonder

7.8/10 4 global ratings Dan Fritz vanious Mike - Watched

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