South Park has had a few recent episodes that didn't work too well.
Crack Baby Athletic Association is one that does work well. If it had aired a few years ago, the shock value would've worked better, but as is, it still manages to deliver a few solid punches.
Those familiar with licensing of "student athletes" will recognize the social commentary that's made in and through the episode as it progresses, and the elements of Kyle's arc soliloquies through the episode add to that commentary. The ending, as well as the story elements that show up partway through are a harsh juxtaposition, but actually work somewhat well - they make as much sense as some of the bizarreness of the early episodes.
Overall it stands on its own merit. It should be enjoyable for most fans, though it isn't up there with the best of episodes, for folks familiar with the real-world subject matter being discussed via crack baby metaphor, it may take on a different life.
Crack Baby Athletic Association is one that does work well. If it had aired a few years ago, the shock value would've worked better, but as is, it still manages to deliver a few solid punches.
Those familiar with licensing of "student athletes" will recognize the social commentary that's made in and through the episode as it progresses, and the elements of Kyle's arc soliloquies through the episode add to that commentary. The ending, as well as the story elements that show up partway through are a harsh juxtaposition, but actually work somewhat well - they make as much sense as some of the bizarreness of the early episodes.
Overall it stands on its own merit. It should be enjoyable for most fans, though it isn't up there with the best of episodes, for folks familiar with the real-world subject matter being discussed via crack baby metaphor, it may take on a different life.
