After an encounter with Calculon causes Bender to discover he possesses a natural talent for tabloid photography, he takes Zoidberg’s advice and submits his work to Earth’s top gossip rag.He soon becomes well-established in the field, but discovers he’s bit off more than he can chew when he stalks his latest prey, an actor whose face has never been photographed before.

This one is just plain funny, from start to finish.Bender becoming a paparazzo is perfectly suited to his character, and when he decides to save the day simply because.It’s properly funny and vainglorious and true to who he is as a character.

The plot throws together a group of characters that rarely interact; Zoidberg, the Professor, Leela and Bender, with Fry, Amy and Hermes entirely out of commission for the majority of the plot.This is a lot of fun, as watching Leela and Bender fight often proves a treat.This week’s installment doesn’t disappoint, and both have funny moments.The twist that occurs involving the actor’s self-involved personality and what that, ultimately, means for the majority of the Planet Express Crew, is awesomely done.And the way Calculon is involved in the plot is clever, as well.One must wonder if his major sacrifice will have ultimate repercussions on the show itself – if not, the ridiculousness of the moment is enough to sustain it.

While not being anything memorably spellbinding, “The Thief of Baghead” is still intellectually enaging (you have to love it when a show sneaks in references to mythological creatures and beings) and terribly funny to watch.You’ll like it, if you don’t end up loving it.

LETTER GRADE: B+