When venturing into the quirky world of South Park, you can bet your bottom dollar it’s going to be a wild ride. Renowned for its toilet humor and razor-sharp social commentary, categorizing this groundbreaking animated series is no easy feat. While there’s plenty of parking available, you’ll also find an abundance of irreverent jokes and mind-bending plot twists. South Park has not only crossed the line, but it’s gleefully subjected that line to all sorts of torturous trials – and audiences can’t seem to get enough of it!
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With a staggering 300+ episodes under its belt, it’s no small feat to make a lasting impression in this vast canon. Only time will tell if the current 26th season of South Park will join the ranks of its most memorable moments. The finest South Park episodes expertly blend the crass and the cunning, creating a unique space where satire and silliness harmoniously coexist. The original songs strike all the right comedic chords, and the characters are so profoundly flawed that irreverence becomes the order of the day. So why not take a jaunt to South Park and acquaint yourself with some of the series’ highest-rated episodes, as hailed by IMDb? It’s bound to be a journey you won’t soon forget!
you are watching: The 20 Best ‘South Park’ Episodes of All Time, Ranked According to IMDb
20“Imaginationland: Episode II”
Season 11, Episode 11 (2007)
While it might not boast the highest rating in the trilogy, “Imaginationland: Episode II” still offers a good deal of enjoyment. This installment follows the escapades of Stan and Kyle after they’re apprehended by the government, who detains them until they spill the beans on how they gained access to Imaginationland. Meanwhile, Cartman’s relentless pursuit of Kyle in accordance with their bet continues.
Admittedly, the second episode does have a slower pace and lacks some crucial plot developments when viewed in the context of the entire trilogy. Some might argue that it could have been condensed into a more riveting duology. However, its commendable rating suggests that viewers derive entertainment from Cartman’s nonsensical quest to catch Kyle, and perhaps even from the presence of the beloved Christmas critters.
19“Cartman Sucks”
Season 11, Episode 2 (2007)
The aptly titled episode “Cartman Sucks” sheds light on how many of the character’s cruel pranks and antics can lead to serious repercussions for others. In this case, poor Butters bears the brunt of Cartman’s immature and thoughtless behavior. Cartman’s series of pranks, which involve taking degrading photos of Butters while he’s asleep, backfire spectacularly. This leads to Butters’ dad sending him to gay conversion therapy.
The episode serves as a scathing commentary on the absurdity of such “therapy” practices while also delving into Cartman’s character in a darkly comedic manner. “Cartman Sucks” rightfully earns its place among the best Cartman-centric episodes. It encapsulates what the adult animated series excels at – addressing controversial topics with a healthy dose of unapologetic humor.
18“Cartmanland”
Season 5, Episode 6 (2001)
In one of the more satisfying episodes of South Park for viewers who can’t stand Cartman, “Cartmanland” portrays Kyle’s hospitalization after a bizarre accident in the titular theme park. Cartman, having inherited a substantial sum from his grandmother, constructs the park solely for his own enjoyment. This development shakes Kyle’s faith and makes his recovery in the hospital all the more challenging.
As the episode unfolds, it becomes increasingly absurd as Cartman grapples with the true costs and challenges of running a theme park, ultimately landing him in deep debt. Without giving away any major spoilers, Kyle’s hospital stay takes a turn for the better as Cartman faces the consequences of his actions. It’s a side-splitting episode that offers fans the rare opportunity to revel in Cartman’s comeuppance as he learns a valuable lesson.
17“All About Mormons”
Season 7, Episode 12 (2003)
“Dum, dum, dum, dum, dum.” When the Harissons rolled into town, the Marsh family found themselves face to face with a clash of values and religious beliefs. Stan, in particular, falls victim to the family’s excessively polite and positive demeanor, all tied to their Mormon faith. What ensues is a series of flashbacks to the inception of the religion, set to catchy and uproarious songs.
In true South Park style, the show puts its own spin on the origins of Mormonism, injecting humor and absurdity into the narrative to comment on Joseph Smith’s founding of the religion. As the residents of South Park grapple with their own beliefs in comparison to the Harissons, this satirical episode prompts viewers to ponder how beliefs are shaped and why.
16“Imaginationland: Episode III”
Season 11, Episode 12 (2007)
“Imaginationland Episode III” serves as the climactic conclusion to a three-part storyline that earned the 2008 Emmy for Outstanding Animated Program for One Hour or More. This 2007 episode is a prime example of South Park’s irreverent humor. In this installment, Stan and Butters join forces to defend against a massive army of invisible foes, all while Cartman remains singularly focused on winning his seemingly impossible bet with Kyle.
This episode introduces a slew of fictional characters, including the likes of Aslan, Al Gore, and even Jesus, setting the stage for an epic battle between good and evil. In doing so, it cleverly comments on the dichotomy present in pop culture. It’s a fantastic way to bring the curtain down on the wild narrative arc that took our main characters to the vibrant realm of Imaginationland.
15“Imaginationland”
Season 11, Episode 10 (2007)
Also recognized as “Imaginationland Episode I,” this marks the 163rd installment of the show and serves as the inaugural entry in the three-part series, ultimately culminating in the uncensored Imaginationland: The Movie. Kicking off with a leprechaun’s whimsical warning about a looming terrorist threat, this episode takes on a distinctive tone reminiscent of Alice in Wonderland. The leprechaun’s seemingly frantic rush and tardiness add an intriguing layer of mystery.
What unfolds is a zany narrative, with the central characters venturing into a realm teeming with familiar faces and astute political commentary. Even in this initial segment of the saga, South Park delivers some of its most pointed criticisms concerning censorship and capitalism, setting the stage for the boys’ exhilarating odyssey through the enigmatic world of Imaginationland.
14“Cartman Joins NAMBLA”
Season 4, Episode 5 (2000)
In a display of South Park’s trademark dark humor, Cartman’s ill-conceived quest to find more mature friends who can match his sensibilities inadvertently leads him to become a member of NAMBLA (North American Man/Boy Love Association), a group he fundamentally misunderstands. The consequences of Cartman’s actions place all the town’s boys in jeopardy, as NAMBLA is, in fact, an organization of internet predators.
Undoubtedly, this episode generated controversy upon its initial release due to its audacious use of humor to address such a sensitive subject matter. However, it carries a message about the media’s role in sensationalizing these issues, a theme not lost on fans who have come to expect the show’s penchant for tackling contentious topics with its unique blend of absurdity and humor.
13“Christian Rock Hard”
Season 7, Episode 9 (2003)
“Christian Rock Hard” comes close to breaking into the top 10 South Park episodes on IMDb. In this episode, the boys decide to form a rock band, only to complicate matters when they refuse to perform once they discover fans are illegally downloading their music from the Internet. Meanwhile, Cartman seizes the opportunity to start his own Christian rock band, “Faith + 1,” in a shameless bid for profit.
This episode serves as a sharp critique of how some bands prioritize financial gain above all else. It also offers a clever satire of famous artists who have vehemently opposed copyright infringement, with Metallica serving as a prime example. Furthermore, it lampoons the Christian rock genre, poking fun at its profit-driven nature, and takes a critical stance on the music industry as a whole. All of this is accompanied by some unforgettable songs that resonate with fans.
12“Butters’ Very Own Episode”
Season 5, Episode 14 (2001)
“Butters’ Very Own Episode” is a deceptive gem in South Park’s arsenal. It cleverly begins in the style of 1950s sitcoms, lulling audiences into a false sense of a lighthearted story. However, the episode takes a dark and unexpected turn, plunging into a narrative where Butters discovers his father’s involvement with other men. His innocent revelation to his mother sets off a chain of events that include her trying to harm him.
This episode stands out as one of the best dedicated to Butters in the South Park series. It’s notable for being the first to place the character at the center of the storyline, adding depth to his persona. Butters emerges as an endearing yet occasionally dim-witted and naive character who viewers can’t help but adore.
11“Grounded Vindaloop”
Season 18, Episode 7 (2014)
In one of the most hysterical South Park episodes to date, Cartman pulls off an epic prank on the ever-gullible Butters. He convinces Butters that he’s wearing a virtual reality headset, but things take a chaotic turn when the other boys get entangled in the virtual world. The result? A mind-bending mess of overlapping realities where no one can discern what’s real anymore. To make matters even more absurd, their only hope of escaping the digital labyrinth is a customer service representative named Steve.
The episode’s convoluted web of realities is so bewildering that even the show’s creators admitted to losing track of the order of events while working on it. It’s a masterful satire of iconic films like The Matrix and Total Recall, as well as the world of open-world gaming. And just when you think it couldn’t get any weirder, the boys return to reality depicted as live-action children, delivering a strangely heartwarming twist to the chaos.
10“Tsst”
Season 10, Episode 7 (2006)
In the episode “Tsst,” the renowned dog whisperer Cesar Millan steps in to tackle the Herculean task of disciplining none other than Cartman himself. Liane, Cartman’s exasperated mother, turns to Millan in desperation, having given up on ever changing her son’s uncontrollable behavior. What follows is a fascinating look at how Millan’s unconventional techniques begin to transform Cartman’s life – for better or worse.
This fan-favorite Cartman episode delves into the lengths it takes to make the mischievous character toe the line, and it’s a journey filled with its fair share of humor and head-scratching moments. It cleverly parodies and critiques reality TV shows centered on extreme parenting, using Cartman and Liane’s tumultuous mother-and-son relationship to raise thought-provoking questions about turning parenting challenges into a form of entertainment. Notably, the real-life Cesar Millan has praised his portrayal in the episode, describing it as “fantastic.”
9“The Death of Eric Cartman”
Season 9, Episode 6 (2005)
Cartman’s insatiable appetite for chicken skin pushes his friends to their limits. In a desperate bid for their attention, they decide to give him the silent treatment, which inadvertently leads Cartman to believe he’s met his untimely demise. What follows is a series of comically inept attempts at redemption, all set against the backdrop of the unforgettable original TV song, “Make It Right.”
This episode, while laced with South Park’s trademark irreverence, also touches on the serious subject of medical trauma, albeit with an extra helping of hyperbole. Amid the chaos and absurdity, the show manages to weave in meaningful messages. Of course, true to South Park’s style, these heartfelt messages are delivered with all the subtlety of a cannonball to the face on the Fourth of July.
8“Trapped in the Closet”
Season 9, Episode 12 (2005)
Tom Cruise’s peculiar antics take center stage as he barricades himself inside a wardrobe, vehemently denying accusations of his whereabouts. Much like a toddler throwing a tantrum, Cruise’s absurd behavior becomes a sideshow in itself. What ensues is a bizarre yet brilliantly orchestrated parody that weaves in references to R. Kelly’s 22-part hip-hopera, “Trapped in the Closet” – a saga involving an unfaithful wife, a secret lover, and a tell-tale pie. The sheer zaniness of the source material makes the episode’s ridiculous framing story feel oddly grounded, resulting in a perfect fusion of wacky themes.
It’s worth noting that after the controversial South Park episode’s release, Parker and Stone found themselves under the watchful eye of the Church of Scientology. However, it’s essential to clarify that this episode doesn’t officially belong to the South Park canon, as all production elements are credited to the mysterious John Smith and Jane Smith. This clever nod plays on the episode’s evocative closing line: “Sue me!” As a result, it’s the brilliant satirical writing of John Smith and the vocal talents of Jane Smith that breathe life into this tremendous and unforgettable episode
7“Woodland Critter Christmas”
Season 8, Episode 14 (2004)
This remarkable Christmas-themed episode initially follows stylistic patterns reminiscent of classics like “A Visit From St. Nicholas” and Dr. Seuss’ “How The Grinch Stole Christmas.” It adheres to the festive formula, complete with the Christmas carol “Christmas Time is Once A Year,” seemingly mirroring the traditional Christian narrative. However, this episode takes an abrupt and dark twist, subverting the wholesome Christmas caper by introducing the birth of a Satanic savior – the Anti-Christ child.
What sets this episode apart is its audacious choice to use Cartman as the mouthpiece for the show’s most outrageous moments. By doing so, it liberates these moments from the constraints of conventional moral frameworks. “Woodland Critter Christmas” artfully employs a framing narrative, revealing that the episode is, in fact, Cartman’s response to a school project, providing context for its audaciously horrific subject matter.
6“Good Times with Weapons”
Season 8, Episode 1 (2004)
The boys embark on a ninja-themed adventure, complete with prop weapons that elevate their play, leading to a shift in animation style reminiscent of martial arts anime cartoons. Even Butters joins the game as his comically inept supervillain alter-ego, Professor Chaos – a refreshing change for a character who often serves as the pitiable punching bag.
The episode beautifully captures the essence of how children construct elaborate imaginary worlds. However, it also doesn’t shy away from the inherent risks of playing with weapons, creating a thoughtful juxtaposition. Fortunately, the boys manage to avoid serious trouble. As the episode aptly concludes, ‘Parents don’t care about violence when there are sex things to worry about.’ With a humorous nod to parental priorities and the original song ‘Let’s Fighting Love,’ this episode delivers a delightful punch.
5“AWESOM-O”
Season 8, Episode 5 (2004)
While donning a robot disguise, Cartman embarks on a mission to uncover Butters’ hidden secrets. However, things take an unexpected turn as Cartman, in his robotic alter ego, stumbles upon shocking information – Butters possesses some damning evidence against him. In a rare twist, Butters finds himself in a position of power, unaware of the influence he wields.
The episode’s mistaken identity theme adds a touch of Shakespearean drama to the mix. Still, Shakespeare isn’t exactly famous for conclusions involving shoot-outs at military bases and a man clutching his own intestines. Cartman’s eventual comeuppance is consistently satisfying, offering a cathartic release for the mounting tension generated by his reprehensible behavior throughout the series. With its original song “My Robot Friend” and a thoroughly gratifying resolution to Cartman’s diabolical scheme, “AWESOM-O” checks all the right boxes.
4“Casa Bonita”
Season 7, Episode 11 (2003)
Episodes that showcase Cartman at his most malevolent tend to strike a chord with audiences, and “Casa Bonita” is a prime example. When Kyle’s birthday celebration is set to take place at the cherished Mexican restaurant Casa Bonita, Cartman hatches an elaborate scheme to secure an invitation. Butters, once again, becomes an unwitting pawn in Cartman’s cunning plan.
Cartman’s sheer dedication to the elaborate ruse he concocts is both impressive and diabolical. As a testament to their fondness for the venue, creators Parker and Stone actually purchased the real Casa Bonita, saving it from potential closure. For those considering hosting a party there, it’s good to know that it’s still open for business, and guests would do well to curate their guest lists thoughtfully.
3“The Return of the Fellowship of the Ring to the Two Towers”
Season 6, Episode 13 (2002)
Randy inadvertently mixes up a Lord of the Rings DVD with an extremely explicit adult film, setting off a chain of events that sends the boys on a mission to return the DVD to the Two Towers rental store. Panic ensues among the parents as they desperately attempt to retrieve the DVD before their children can lay eyes on it. Meanwhile, eighth graders catch wind of the situation and aim to steal the controversial DVD, while Token ends up watching it, resulting in severe trauma.
The episode concludes with a memorable scene where the boys’ parents, in a comically awkward and misguided attempt to shield their sons from explicit content, end up having to explain graphic situations to their innocent and visibly perturbed children.
2“Make Love, Not Warcraft”
Season 10, Episode 8 (2006)
When a character within the World of Warcraft game starts wreaking havoc by killing other players’ characters, the boys decide to create their own powerful in-game personas to confront this destructive player. This episode seamlessly blends the iconic South Park animation style with the aesthetics of World of Warcraft, all with the assistance of the game’s creators at Blizzard.
“Make Love, Not Warcraft” not only received a Primetime Emmy Award but also dispelled Trey Parker’s initial concerns about it potentially harming South Park’s legacy. Instead, it went on to become one of the funniest and most beloved episodes among fans and critics alike. Its influence even extended to the game itself, as Wrath of the Lich King introduced a “Make Love, Not Warcraft” PvP achievement in homage to the episode’s memorable and heartwarming conclusion.
1“Scott Tenorman Must Die”
Season 5, Episode 4 (2001)
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Category: MOVIE
