UPDATE: The latest episode of “The Simpsons: Treehouse of Horror XXXVI,” which aired on October 15, 2023, features a chilling score heavily inspired by the iconic “Jaws” soundtrack, as confirmed by composer Kara Talve. This thrilling installment, part of the animated series’ **37th season**, promises to engage audiences with its spine-tingling musical references and dark, comedic themes.
In this episode, Springfield faces a terrifying threat from a monster emerging from the sewers, while Krusty the Clown encounters chaos on his Halloween special, featuring a guest appearance by none other than Idris Elba. The segment titled “The Last Days of Crisco” introduces the grotesque monster known as Fatberg, who preys on victims by drawing fat from them, parodying the classic “Jaws” narrative.
Talve, collaborating with fellow composer Russell Emanuel, emphasizes that “Jaws” was their primary musical influence for the Fatberg segment. She states, “We got to go really John Williams, with heavy orchestral music, and we used big, over-the-top brass.” The duo creatively manipulated notes to amplify the grotesque ambiance, crafting a sound that is both “delightfully distasteful and disgusting.”
As the episode unfolds, the second segment titled “Clown Night with the Devil” sees Krusty’s show disrupted by the arrival of the Devil. Talve reveals that the score shifts from orchestral tones to synth-heavy sounds, drawing inspiration from the horror film “Late Night With the Devil.” She notes, “We watched it because, on the spotting call, Mike Price, the showrunner, kept referencing this demonic hum.”
The final segment, “Plastic World,” presents a dystopian vision of Springfield, littered with Buzz Cola bottles. This part features renowned woodwind player Pedro Eustache, who contributed unique sounds using custom-made instruments, including a Wilding Horn and a PVC pipe creation, enhancing the episode’s eerie atmosphere.
With its clever mix of horror and humor, “Treehouse of Horror XXXVI” is set to leave audiences buzzing long after the credits roll. As critics and fans alike react to the episode’s innovative scoring and chilling narratives, this latest offering from “The Simpsons” has quickly become a hot topic for discussion.
Stay tuned for more updates as reactions pour in, and join the conversation online to share your thoughts on this unforgettable episode!
