Hooray for more nostalgia! Yep, I remember this episode clear as day too, but a revisit was definitely appreciated. And I’ve always liked this episode because it combines the “SpongeBob trying to get his license” plot with a “Krusty Krab” plot seamlessly, far better than, say, “Summer Job”. Though these episodes are trying to accomplish fundamentally different goals, so that’s not quite the fair comparison I’m presenting it to be.
“Tutor Sauce” starts off pretty well, focusing on Mr. Krabs first and foremost. I love how when Mr. Krabs faints, Squidward uses literal salt on him to get him to wake up, that was pretty funny. And then we get the reveal that these messed up patties are the result of SpongeBob being upset about failing his boating exam, and let me tell you, I already like this plot. Exploring the actual and emotional impact repeated failure has on SpongeBob, outside of him being in the boat? Count me in right now, this is exactly what I like to see!
I love SpongeBob and Mr. Krabs interactions, so you already know I’m happy with where this episode is going. Not to mention, Mr. Krabs teaching SpongeBob how to drive? They’re pretty much just handing us these quasi-father-son moments on a silver platter! Don’t even get me started on the little moment between Mr. Krabs and Pearl in this episode, that was precious and notice how they had Mr. Krabs give Pearl the money with no runaround? For quick gags like this, let’s keep that attitude going. The Mr. Krabs is a good father hive just won today! Also, SpongeBob only pays $100/semester for Boating School? Man, I wish college only cost that much.
This episode is just really funny. It’s another one of those episodes that’s comprised mostly of gags and running gags, and it’s done very well. I mean first off, the big running gag of the episode, SpongeBob crashing into the Krusty Krab (or making something crash into the Krusty Krab), and Mr. Krabs having to calculate the damages, is actually hilarious every single time, don’t know what to tell you. That construction worked got PAID! And there’s plenty of funny stuff other than this one gag too. Like there’s plenty of visual gags and expressive moments that made me laugh. Or the whole bit with Mr. Krabs trying to give himself a pep talk, that was hilarious. And of course, I love how Gary is a master at driving. Man, why do I always watch these episodes in places where I should be quiet? I’m really doing myself no favors. It’s hard to choke down my laughter.
"Tutor Sauce" was one of the best episodes I've seen in a long while. It was just so freaking funny, I loved the character dynamics here, and there's nothing bad I can say here at all. Easily the best of the season so far, and again, one of the best in a very long time. I mean...peep the score.
Episode Tier: Amazing
Episode Score: 9.6/10
