Ep 12. Noidstrom Rack

In the 12th episode of season 7, titled "Noidstrom Rack," Robot Chicken continues to deliver its unique brand of irreverent and hilarious stop-motion sketch comedy. This episode features a barrage of absurd and outrageous skits, blending pop culture references with dark humor and a healthy dose of satire.

The episode kicks off with a bang as we are introduced to a world in which mall security guards possess far more power and authority than one might expect. In a sketch titled "Mall Wars," we witness a showdown between rival mall cops as they engage in an epic lightsaber battle. Expect plenty of nods to the Star Wars franchise and its iconic characters in this opening segment.

Next up, we are treated to a segment featuring the beloved super spy, James Bond. In "Gold Bond," we follow the secret agent on his latest mission, which takes an unexpected turn when his gadget-laden Aston Martin breaks down. As he navigates through various comedic mishaps, Bond's trademark charisma and resourcefulness shine through, resulting in a hilarious and action-packed adventure.

As the episode progresses, the Robot Chicken team takes on the world of Barbie and Ken, delivering a skit that parodies the iconic dolls' exaggerated physique and superficial lifestyles. In "Barbie Too," we see the dolls engage in a battle of wits and physical prowess in an absurd scenario that pokes fun at societal beauty standards.

In "Yo, Gurdy," the show takes a nostalgic trip back to the '80s, paying homage to the popular Yo! MTV Raps television show. This sketch features a puppet rap battle, complete with animated versions of iconic hip-hop artists from the era. Fans of classic '80s hip-hop will appreciate the references and clever wordplay in this hilarious and inventive segment.

The humor takes a dark turn in "Cyber Zod," a sketch that portrays what would happen if Superman's arch-nemesis, General Zod, stumbled upon the world of online dating. As Zod navigates the treacherous waters of modern romance, the sketch explores the comical and sometimes disturbing aspects of online dating, all while cleverly intertwining elements of Superman's mythology.

Another standout segment in this episode is titled "Junior's Big Book of Sex." In this skit, we encounter a family-friendly children's book author who accidentally publishes a rather adult-themed book. Chaos ensues as children across the nation acquire the book, leading to hysterical and disastrous situations. This sketch masterfully combines innocent childhood imagery with explicit adult content, creating a delightful blend of shock and laughter.

The episode also features a parody of the popular children's show, Sesame Street, in a sketch titled "Grovin' Grouch." This segment takes a playful jab at the beloved characters of Sesame Street, particularly Oscar the Grouch. Expect clever and absurd twists on the show's educational content, as well as irreverent humor that pushes the boundaries of what is considered appropriate for children.

Finally, the episode concludes with a touching and comedic sketch titled "Mr. Mouse Takes a Trip." In this segment, we follow the misadventures of an anthropomorphic mouse who embarks on a journey to fulfill his lifelong dream of visiting Disneyland. This heartwarming story blends slapstick comedy with sentimental moments, reminding viewers of the power of dreams and the joy of embracing life's unexpected detours.

"Noidstrom Rack" delivers all the hallmarks of a classic Robot Chicken episode – quick-witted humor, inventive animation, and an unapologetic willingness to explore the absurd and sometimes controversial. Fans of the show will undoubtedly find themselves entertained by the wide range of pop culture references and darkly comedic sketches that make this episode truly memorable.