Concluding this double-bill return for Futurama is a delicious multi-dose of shiny metal assed action in this Bender-centric episode, Benderama. And there’s much to enjoy. The Prof has put together a machine that duplicates an object, whilst also ensmalling them at the same time (like embiggening, except opposite). Cue Bender’s wish to have servants do his work for him, who also have the same desire. It’s not long before the world is overrun by tiny Benders and it’s a little overwhelming. Mirroring the ‘lazy’ nature of the narrative, the episode is pretty lazy itself. But I don’t mean that negatively. The show is playing to its strengths (Bender and his antics, never surprising but always funny) neatly delivering verbal and visual gags at every bat of your eyelid. We’re presented with what could be regarded as a stereotypical ‘sci-fi nerd’ (here a giant alien, spotty, ugly, awkward and living with mum). A trope familiar with fans, but this is juxtaposed with a gag about the Kardashians. Which one is more repugnant? Not sure. There’s more familiarity throughout (multiple Benders, a giant Bender destroying the city, for example), but knowingly, the production team have injected it with added smirks and vitality. Particularly worthy of a mention is the return of The Scary Door, with one of its best stories yet and delivered so wonderfully, and the montage to the thousands of Benders being ‘killed’ to the sounds of Rock ‘N’ Roll Pest Control by Young Fresh Fellows. Utterly sublime. Read our review of episode 14, Neutopia, here.
