Using the classic film Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory as its base, this episode strikes out on its own to deliver a classic Fry episode that works on every level. The truth behind the mysterious deliciousness of Slurm, perhaps a distant cousin to Duff Beer from the Simpsons, carries the episode to its disgusting conclusion and an epic battle against the Slurm Queen. It's also loaded with pop culture references, from the Grunka Lunkas doing silly songs that relate to our heroes and the Slurm Queen's brilliant plan to use New Slurm as a way to bolster sales of Slurm Classic; these riffs on both Willy Wonka and the New Coke scandal combine with a genuine mystery that can keep a first time viewer on their feet.
23. Put Your Head On My Shoulders
It's a rather disturbing moment when you realize that Fry's head has been dispatched from his own body, a fact that Zoidberg so effortlessly points out in his own wonderful way. And while this episode is largely based around the brief relationship between Fry and Amy, it also serves to deepen the bond between Fry and Leela. She comes to his rescue again at the end, once again showing their ability to be there for each other. The relationship between Amy and Fry is a cute one, even if it doesn't last the episode. Their interactions become a bit more awkward with Fry's head attached to her shoulders, creating some priceless moments when it appears that he might join Amy and her date in their devious activities.
