The sitcom that has been canceled multiple times but it just keeps coming back – Futurama! This beloved show has captivated audiences for years, so much so that Hulu revived it after 10 years, bringing us all to the year 3023. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to the series, join us as we dive into why Futurama is considered one of the best-animated sci-fi sitcoms ever created.
The Characters of Futurama
Let’s start with the protagonist – Fry, the most relatable character in the show, mainly because he was born in the 20th century. If you don’t know how he got to the 31st century, well it’s a funny, but short story: he was a delivery boy who found himself cryogenically frozen for 1000 years. His wide-eyed enthusiasm and cluelessness about the future make him endearing to the regular Joes and Janes out there.
Next up we have Bender, a robot with a penchant for bending things (and rules). While he might not sound relatable, if you’re someone who enjoys modern casino games like slingo bingo at Paddy’s, you’ll love his character. After all, the blending of bingo and slots is fairly recent, so if you’re curious about what else could change when it comes to your favorite games then you can watch Bender visit futuristic casinos in Futurama! Plus, he always adds a healthy dose of cynicism and sarcasm to every situation, a great comic relief.
Leela, on the other hand, is a no-nonsense spaceship captain with one eye. Originally thought of as an orphaned alien, we later discover she’s actually a mutant whose parents live under New New York. She balances toughness with vulnerability and serves as a strong female role model in the often male-dominated genre of sci-fi. The ultimate woman-boss.
Other memorable characters include Professor Farnsworth, a senile mad professor who is the great times infinity nephew of Fry, Zoidberg, the lovably inept lobster doctor with a very distinct odor, Amy Wong, the ditzy, spoiled but talented intern, Hermes Conrad, the by-the-book bureaucrat, and ex-Olympic limbo athlete.
The writers do an incredible job of developing each character’s personality through their interactions with one another, which is why there are plenty of articles ranking them like the one by Collider. Their quirks, flaws, and growth over the eight seasons create an emotional connection between viewers and these animated beings from the 31st century.
The Plotlines of Futurama
While great characters are, well, great, without the impeccably written plotlines, it’d get a tad boring. Luckily, we don’t have to worry about this as the show is known for its clever and intricate plotlines. While some episodes are better than others, as per the ScreenRant report, in every one of them we are taken on a wild journey through space, time, and so much more.
Moreover, the writers don’t seem to ever shy away from tackling thought-provoking themes either. They use their platform to comment on social issues such as politics, religion, and technology while still maintaining an air of lightheartedness.
In addition, what makes the plotlines truly exceptional is how they interweave with each other over multiple seasons. The show has an unparalleled sense of continuity that rewards long-time fans who pay attention to every detail.
It’s this combination of intricate storytelling, compelling themes, and memorable characters that make Futurama stand out among animated sitcoms. So whether you’re looking for laughs or contemplating life’s big questions (or both), a thrilling ride on the Planet Express is guaranteed.
After exploring the main aspects that make Futurama one of the best-animated sci-fi sitcoms, it is clear that this show has carved a special place in the hearts of many viewers. From its unique blend of humor to its rich and dynamic characters, Futurama offers an exceptional viewing experience.
