British newspapers "The Guardian" and "The Times" both gave the film four out of five stars. "The Times"' James Bone said that it "boasts the same sly cultural references and flashes of brilliance that have earned the television series a following that ranges from tots to comparative literature PhDs". "The Guardian"'s Peter Bradshaw stated that it "gives you everything you could possibly want" and that he thought, "Eighty-five minutes not long enough to do justice to 17 years of comedy genius". Ed Gonzalez praised the film for its political message, likening the "Itchy & Scratchy" cartoon at the beginning to President Schwarzenegger's situation later on, as well as the film's visual gags. Randy Shulman praised the cast, and described them as having "elevated their vocal work to a craft that goes way beyond simple line readings", and particularly praised Kavner who he said "gave what must be the most heartfelt performance ever". Roger Ebert gave a positive review of three out of four stars, but admitted he was "generally [not a fan of movies spun off from TV animation". He called it "radical and simple at the same time, subversive and good-hearted, offensive without really meaning to be". Richard Corliss of "Time" said that the film "doesn't try to be ruder or kinkier, just bigger and better".