Simpsons Extravaganza

With the Simpsons Movie just around the corner, the marketing buildup is approaching fever pitch. And I like it. Things to do in the Hollywood tie-in fun house:

• Visit your local Kwik-E-Mart: A number of 7-Elevens are receiving a Kwik-E-Mart facelift for the release of the movie, complete with Simpsons-inspired products like Buzz Cola, Squishees, KrustyOs, and copies of Radioactive Man. Ashley and I visited our local Kwik-E-Mart in Mountain View (right across from the movie theater), and Ashley noted the barricades already in place for the inevitable nerd-riot that will unfold on the movie’s opening night.
• Pick up a copy of Bazaar: The Simpsons are doing a full photo spread with the luminaries of the fashion world.
• Visit a landmark: Hop on JetBlue, the official airline of Springfield, before Mr. Burns “improves” it. Maybe go to Britain and see the Cerres Abbas giant. Or visit Canada to see the CN Tower. Or just be done with it and go visit the official Springfield.

It’s all in good fun, and a hell of a lot cheaper than post-Harry Potter grief counseling.