Where to start withThe Simpsons
3 versions · originally a series, 1989
Themes: Dysfunctional Family, Suburban Satire, Social Commentary, Workplace Comedy, Animated Sitcom.
Start with The Simpsons Movie (2007) — the film. The Simpsons exists in 3 versions across media, beginning as a series in 1989; each is ranked below by what it does best.
The Simpsons is a satirical, irreverent look at American family dynamics through the lens of a chaotic, dysfunctional, yet enduring household.
✦ Most fans start here
The Simpsons Movie (2007)
The original tv
The Simpsons
Matt Groening · Series · 1989
The Simpsons (1989) serves as the foundational television series, establishing the iconic Springfield setting and the core family dynamics that define the franchise's enduring, long-form satirical social commentary.
2007 film
✦ Start hereThe Simpsons Movie
Film · 2007
The Simpsons Movie (2007) offers a high-stakes, cinematic expansion of the television format, focusing on a singular, catastrophic disaster that forces the family into an epic, feature-length fugitive narrative.
2020 film
Maggie Simpson in "Playdate with Destiny"
David Silverman · Film · 2020
Maggie Simpson in 'Playdate with Destiny' (2020) provides a brief, dialogue-free character study centered on Maggie, perfect for those seeking a concise, visual exploration of the family's youngest member.
Common questions
Is The Simpsons Movie a direct sequel to the 1989 TV show?
The Simpsons Movie, released in 2007, is a feature-length film based on the long-running television series The Simpsons that debuted in 1989. While it features the same characters and setting, it functions as a standalone cinematic story rather than a direct chronological continuation of specific television episodes.
How long is the short film Maggie Simpson in Playdate with Destiny?
Maggie Simpson in Playdate with Destiny is a short film released in 2020. It centers on the character Maggie Simpson and is part of the expanded media catalog associated with The Simpsons franchise. The runtime is significantly shorter than the 1989 television series episodes or The Simpsons Movie.
Should I watch The Simpsons TV show before The Simpsons Movie?
Watching the 1989 television series The Simpsons provides necessary context for the characters and humor found in The Simpsons Movie. While the movie is a self-contained story, familiarity with the established dynamics from the television show enhances the viewing experience for fans of the franchise.
What is the release order of The Simpsons media?
The Simpsons began as a television series in 1989. This was followed by the feature-length production The Simpsons Movie in 2007. The most recent addition to this specific list of adaptations is the 2020 short film titled Maggie Simpson in Playdate with Destiny.