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Volume 5 of
South Park on home video pairs two thematic, daring episodes that are among the louder commentary of creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone. "Starvin' Marvin" (1997's Thanksgiving episode) touches on the opposing ideas of starvation and eating in an attack on townspeople by genetically altered turkeys while the boys adopt an Ethiopian boy accidentally sent to them via airmail (they really wanted the complimentary sports watch). An acidic portrayal of Sally Struthers spices this episode, and though the idea of "Marvin" is at first difficult to swallow, the searing hilarity provokes thought. Pointed and very funny.
"Mecha Streisand" was a chance for Parker and Stone to unleash their hatred of Barbra Streisand (as they capriciously state in their filmed introduction). Paying tribute to the Japanese monster-duel movies of the 1960s like Godzilla, the story hilariously portrays Streisand as a rich, egomaniacal celebrity (wonder why) hell-bent on finding the missing relic that will transform her into a giant metal Barbra--a monster who crushes South Park's buildings at one moment while pausing to sign an autograph for Kyle's mother the next. Another highlight of "Mecha-Streisand" is the portrayal of a cynical, laid-back Leonard Maltin who, teamed with Sydney Poitier and Robert Smith of the Cure, band together to battle the evil "Mecha-Streisand." Don't miss "Mecha-Streisand." (For adults only.) --Karen Karleski
