Cough syrup.
Apologies for a spoiler from 26 years ago, but we're going to assume that you've seen the glory that is Flaming Moe's at least once by now.
The classic Simpsons episode first aired on November 21, 1991, as the 10th entry of the third season. Today, it stands out as one of the very best creations from the show's boom period.
There was a time when it seemed like The Simpsons could do no wrong, with each new trip to Springfield absolutely packed with seemingly endless wit and invention.
Flaming Moe's tells a simple story; Homer invents an incredible drink only for Moe to steal it for his own fame and fortune. Cue a wild adventure as Homer stumbles from bar to bar before concocting his grand revenge.
It's tricky to nail down just five highlights from Flaming Moe's, but that's what we've gone and done...
1. The epic origins of the 'Flaming Homer'
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=39ZCWIgDgOk
Clip via letsbepandas
As Moe struggles to understand the combination of gin and tonic, Homer's need for escapism results in one of his greatest creations, setting the scene for his ultimate downfall...
2. A great 'one and done' character
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sWODRimKXWg
Clip via L0st-D4md
Few TV shows, if any, create brilliant characters for cameo purposes as well as The Simpsons. Kirk Van Houten's ruthless boss at the cracker factory is arguably the best example, but the above shotgun-wielding, exasperated barman runs a close second.
3. The Cheers tribute
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-EwwJnJPs8A
Clip via Mostly Simpsons
Ever quick to comment on the pop culture world around them, the writers paid an inspired tribute to Cheers with their own darkly comic spin on the beloved sitcom, capped off with Barney in the Norm Peterson role.
4. Moe's utter confusion in the face of a brand name
Harv Bannister: “My name’s Harv Bannister, I work for Tipsy McStagger’s Good Time Drinking and Eating Emporium.”
Moe: “Oh, yeah? Hey, what’s Mr. McStagger really like?”
Harv Bannister: “Actually there is no Tipsy McStagger, he’s just a composite of other successful logos.”
Moe: “Well, you tell him from me that he makes one great mozzarella stick.”
Harv Bannister: “Yes, fine, I will.”
5. The sheer damn emotion of it all
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fmWnLt2Gb3w
Clip via The Bootstrap MF
The genius of Homer Simpson is on full display throughout Flaming Moe's. By the time he eventually ruins everything, you can't help but feel sorry for the guy. He's a bad husband, a bad father, a bad friend and a bad employee - and yet you never want to see harm come his way.
Thankfully, we get a happy ending as Homer's boundless optimism wins the day.
