Ep 12. Put Out to Pasture / Future Schlock

Rocko's Modern Life season 4 episode 12, titled "Put Out to Pasture / Future Schlock," features two separate storylines that showcase the quirky humor and social commentary for which the show is known.

In "Put Out to Pasture," Rocko's beloved car, the Lament, breaks down beyond repair. When he tries to buy a new car, he discovers that all of the cars available are electronic and come with a slew of unnecessary and confusing features. Frustrated, Rocko decides to take matters into his own hands and build a car himself.

Meanwhile, Heffer's grandfather, Grandpa Wolfe, comes to visit and takes an immediate liking to the Lament. Heffer tries to convince Rocko to give the car to his grandfather, but Rocko is hesitant because of his emotional attachment to the car. In the end, Rocko realizes that the Lament is just a thing and decides to give it to Grandpa Wolfe, who is thrilled to have it.

The episode's second storyline, "Future Schlock," takes a satirical look at the future of technology and consumerism. Rocko and his friends visit a theme park called Techno-World, where Heffer is excited to try out a new "virtual reality" ride. However, when he gets on the ride, he realizes that it's not actually virtual reality but just a fake experience meant to generate advertising revenue.

As the group explores the rest of the park, they encounter an array of ridiculous gadgets and products, from robot butlers to a "mind control" television. They eventually stumble upon the park's secret underground lair, where its creators are hatching a plan to brainwash the world's population and turn them into mindless consumers.

Together, Rocko and his friends manage to foil the plan and save the day. The episode ends with a warning about the dangers of unchecked consumerism and a reminder to value experiences over material possessions.

Overall, "Put Out to Pasture / Future Schlock" is a classic example of Rocko's Modern Life's blend of zany humor and biting social commentary. From the absurdities of modern technology to the sentimental attachments we form to our possessions, the episode explores a range of topics with the show's signature wit and irreverence.