The MagazineCanada

With fuel prices skyrocketing, the Planet Express crew sets off on a perilous mission to infiltrate the world’s only dark-matter mine, the unlikely source of their ships’ power. But once they descend, they discover a place far stranger than any spaceyard could imagine—a medieval domain where dragons circle above and sorcery threads through the air, and the knights who guard the terrain appear, to fans, like intoxicated versions of Bender. It’s a collision of science fiction wit and fantasy bravura that feels precisely like the show at its best. After two middling entries, this installment returns Futurama to the brisk pacing, satirical bite, and gleefully out-there imagination that hooked viewers in the early days. The humor lands with a mix of quick gags, long-game callbacks, and character-driven warmth, giving Fry a chance to chase a plan that’s as flawed as it is charming; Leela’s pragmatism anchors the chaos, while Bender overshadows every scene with his blithe self-interest and glossy-eyed mischief. The mining sequences are more than action set pieces; they’re a chance for the writing team to poke fun at tech hype, corporate monopolies, and the absurd economies of space travel—all filtered through the show’s unmistakable voice. Visually, the mine’s labyrinthine tunnels glow with a strange luminescence, and the fantasy world beyond the cutaway brims with color, texture, and a playful anachronism that fans will recognize as a signature move: blending futuristic gadgetry with tavern charm, neon signage beside carved stone, and machines that hum with a life of their own. The episode’s balance between danger and levity keeps the pace lively without undercutting the thread of character development, a hallmark that makes it feel earned rather than merely clever. North American audiences, particularly Canadian and U.S. fans who grew up on the show, will appreciate the way the script leans into pop culture humor while rooting its jokes in character moments that feel personal rather than pandering. The result is a strong return to form that invites repeat viewings, rewarding attention with easter eggs, quick shifts in tone, and moments that land with surprising emotional resonance, all while delivering the trademark commentary on technology, greed, and human quirks. In short, it’s a standout for longtime followers and a perfect entry point for newcomers seeking the blend of sci-fi wit and fantasy whimsy that defines Futurama. Those who enjoyed Futurama: Bender’s Big Score will likely find this episode equally satisfying, offering a clean blend of clever writing, colorful design, and the goofy charm that makes the series feel personal and alive.