"Human Flesh" is the pilot episode of the animated series Bob's Burgers, created by Loren Bouchard. Originally airing on January 9, 2011, on Fox, this episode introduces viewers to the Belcher family and their burger restaurant, setting the tone for the quirky humor and family dynamics that define the series. The story begins with Bob Belcher, the head of the family, reopening his burger restaurant after a renovation.
The grand reopening winds up being not-so-grand, with the festival-like atmosphere getting ruined by shocking allegations. The episode hints at negative stereotypes about restaurants, such as them serving questionable meats (there are pervasive stereotypes of buffet food or “street food” being more suspicious than other foods). In this case, Bob faces immediate challenges when a rumor spreads that his burgers are made from human flesh!
This rumor starts because of unscrupulous talk between Louise, the youngest Belcher child, and her classmates. Louise, known for her mischievous and sometimes dark sense of humor, tells her peers that Bob uses human remains from the funeral home next door as a secret ingredient. Whoops! (On that note: This episode resonates with me personally because I live near a sausage factory that's right next door to a funeral home!)
The situation escalates when a health inspector, Hugo Habercore, investigates the restaurant. His intense inspections would be sustained as a theme in future seasons, as evidenced here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bnc4l5kSxKU
Bob's Burgers and the cannibal feast?
Hugo, who has a personal vendetta against Bob due to a past romantic rivalry over Linda, Bob's wife, becomes determined to shut the restaurant down, despite no evidence of Bob actually doing anything wrong (especially not on the scale of serving human flesh to unsuspecting customers). The episode climaxes as the family rallies together to clear their name and save the restaurant...well, almost. Bob's Burgers is typically not about new beginnings, but about making the best out of bad situations.
Key characters introduced
- Bob Belcher: The hardworking but slightly cynical patriarch who is passionate about running his burger joint.
- Linda Belcher: Bob's supportive and eccentric wife, who brings an optimistic energy to the family.
- Tina Belcher: The socially awkward eldest daughter, known for her monotone delivery and fascination with boys and butts.
Though she doesn't say it here, one of her memorable quotes is: "I'm no hero. I put my bra on one boob at a time like everyone else."
- Gene Belcher: The middle child and aspiring musician, who frequently adds sound effects and comic relief.
- Louise Belcher: The cunning and unpredictable youngest daughter, who wears bunny ears and loves causing chaos...to the point where it seems she could burn it all down.
- Hugo Habercore: The health inspector and antagonist of the episode, who has a history with Linda.
This episode has themes and style, y'all!
The episode sets the tone for the show's focus on family dynamics, offbeat humor, and satirical takes on running a small business. It also establishes the recurring trope of misunderstandings and minor catastrophes that spiral out of control, with the Belchers' bond and resilience helping them prevail over stressful days.
Reception
While the pilot received mixed-to-positive reviews, it introduced a unique comedic voice that resonated with fans over time. It also provides some shock value while still being lighthearted and silly, which isn't the easiest thing to achieve. Now, many feel the show has only gotten better with age,
but critics initially compared the show's humor to other adult animated series like The Simpsons and Family Guy. Fortunately, the series eventually carved out its own niche with its character-driven comedy and heartfelt moments.
In fact, every such animated sitcom will be accused of "ripping off The Simpsons," to some degree, which is something South Park famously highlighted in "Simpsons Already Did It." Oh, and every true fan of The Simpsons has episodes they distance themselves from anyway.
Trivia
- This episode features a darker tone compared to some later episodes, with more morbid humor (e.g., the human flesh rumor). It's common knowledge the show was originally going to be more cannibal-themed throughout its run, which is why this introductory episode makes fun of that very premise.
- Bob sort of sets the tone for the show in a single quote: "Alright, listen. You're my children and I love you. But, you're all terrible at what you do here. And I feel like I should tell you, I'd fire all of you if I could."
- Louise's love of pranks and Gene's use of a megaphone become signature traits throughout the Bob’s Burgers series.
- Tina was originally written as a boy named Daniel, but the creators decided to reimagine the character, keeping Dan Mintz as the voice actor. Though it was originally not clear what role Mintz would play, he wrote the future episode, "The Equestranauts".