What The--?! #16, page 26 (1991) - Forbush Man vs. The Specter Of Early Cancellation!

It's Halloween time, once again! My favorite time of the year. And, as always, I have a special piece of comic art to note the occasion. But this isn't just any piece of horror-themed comic art I bring you today. This one is a terror almost too dreadful for humankind. I bring you the ultimate in unscrupulous horror: Forbush Man!

Coming from the frightful pages of "What The--?!" is the one being all men fear and all women jeer, as he faces off against the one horror all comic characters never want to face.... The Specter Of Early Cancellation! The titanic terror of this tumultuous tribulation is more than enough to freeze a man's soul with fear!

Okay, enough of my Stan Lee impersonation. I've always really enjoyed the "What The--?!" series, because of the way it shown that comics, and the people who make them, are capable of laughing at themselves and the absurdities in what they do. The subtle swipe at DC Comics "Spectre" and the old "Leave It To Beaver" sitcom, shows you exactly what I mean. I miss this kind of light-hearted humor and playfulness, which is so lacking in modern comics creators, who all take themselves WAY too seriously.

This is among some of the earliest work by artist Aaron Lopresti, who does double duty writing and drawing this tale of "woe" (or should that be "tale of whoa?"). It's much more cartoony, than his style is today. But it fits with the vibe of the character and book, with it's "dad humor" and zaniness. But he still brings on the scares, making it equal parts horror and comedy. And thus, a perfect addition to my collection.... and a welcome nod to the time of year! I'll be shrieking you! Happy Halloween to you all!