Robot Amenities

Philip J. Fry has been living comfortably at Planet Express since his arrival in this futuristic setting. The perks of being close to work and avoiding housing costs made it a prime situation for him. However, his coworkers, especially Hermes, are less than pleased about Fry's extended stay in the office.

Fry’s tendency to leave leftover food lying around, waste excessive water, and use the spaceship’s engine as a hairdryer has become a significant annoyance for his colleagues. The tipping point arrives when Fry mistakenly eats Professor Farnsworth's prized alien mummy, thinking it was dried beef. The decision is unanimous: Fry needs to find a new place.

The Search for Housing

Bender offers Fry a spot in his home, but while it suits Bender's robotic needs perfectly, it proves insufficient for a human. This disparity cleverly symbolizes the varied housing requirements that contribute to the current crisis. Fry and Bender embark on a quest to discover an apartment that accommodates both of their needs.

Their adventure leads them to explore unconventional living arrangements, including an underwater dwelling and a mind-bending maze of stairs. They even venture into the comedic realm of New Jersey. Despite their efforts, they struggle to find a place that meets their criteria.

Just when optimism wanes, fortune smiles upon them. One of Professor Farnsworth's acquaintances passes away, allowing Fry and Bender to lease his former apartment. Bender chooses to inhabit the closet, a perfect fit for him, while Fry moves into the main living area.

Co-Living Challenges

Sharing a space brings its own set of hurdles. During a housewarming gathering, Fry and Bender discover that Bender's antenna disrupts the television reception for the entire building. This conflict leads to Bender's eviction, leaving him to cope with the loneliness of living alone. Despite being a robot devoid of human feelings, he experiences the emotional toll of separation.

This depiction of Bender's struggles underscores the harsh realities of solitude and the mental health issues that arise from financial stress and the fight to secure basic living conditions.

The Real Struggle

Eventually, Fry and Bender reconcile, reattaching Bender's antenna, and Fry returns to Bender's apartment. In a surprising twist, Bender unveils a spacious suite hidden within his closet, allowing Fry to finally find a place he can call home.

This episode encapsulates the difficulties of securing adequate housing amid rising rents and unaffordable mortgages, while also emphasizing the significance of community and neighbors—an idea that resonates deeply in today’s challenging economic landscape.

As I watched this episode with my friends Austin and Spencer, we couldn't help but reflect on how Fry and Bender's trials mirror our own. We all grapple with escalating living costs, stagnant wages, and deceptive job markets.

Everyday Struggle

Ultimately, we yearn for the simplicity of living without the constant worry of bills or hunger, and perhaps one day owning a home. However, with the average price of a Canadian house reaching $704,000 in 2022, projected to slightly decrease to $685,000 in 2024, the reality feels like an endless cycle of planning and searching for a future commune.

"I, Roommate" serves as a poignant reminder of the value of community and the bonds we share during trying times. It teaches us that even amid harsh realities, there is always space for laughter, friendship, and shared experiences.

Ultimately, "I, Roommate" transcends the boundaries of a mere animated episode. It reflects the daily struggles faced by many Millennials and Gen Z individuals. It encourages us to remain resilient in the face of adversity, cherish our connections, and maintain our sense of humor—even when challenges seem overwhelming. If Fry and Bender have imparted any wisdom, it is that, infused with humor, a dose of patience, and a sprinkle of creativity, we can overcome any obstacles life throws our way.

Stay safe, and spread the good news.

Coss