Atomic Fly and Raptor X are two of the newer Fogeys introduced during this alien invasion super arc, but I already kind of love them. Atomic Fly in particular. I know introducing new characters to such a long-running story with an established cast can be problematic, but hopefully you guys are enjoying these little peeks at the “rabble” who surround our heroes (and villains).
ALERT! Because of NYCC (go see him and say hi! details coming) and family matters, Marc will be taking a couple weeks off starting October 7th. But… I don’t want to leave you guys high and dry. For two weeks only, I’m gonna return to art duties for some extra special strips that take place outside of the current story in a unique way. What does that mean? You’ll find out.
It’s sad that Origins don’t continue, because for example Soviet Sam’s origin really established him as a character and we could accept him more easily to the main storyline.
I read week ago Ibsen’s Wild Duck which kinda had same theme as today’s strip in Jerry’s mind. Good times.
I’m bummed about Origins, too. It just seemed like one of those things most people weren’t enjoying as much as the regular strip and that kind of robbed me of the enthusiasm I once had for the project. I’d love to bring it back, but with the exception of a few like yourself, I just don’t think it’s something people are that excited about.
I was disappointed by Origins being discontinued as well. I’m sure the number of times I’ve referenced “The Death of Mr. Crook” was probably a clue. It was delightful to get a glimpse of the characters in the past and I thought it really helped flesh out their relationships.
I couldn’t echo your sentiments more, Andrew. They were a huge help for me as a storyteller as well.
Perhaps an explicit explanation of “third man”? I mean, there’s more than one way to interpret that moniker.
Too true. And, judging by the comments today, you’re not the only one who is still stumped by it.
So… in the interest of alleviating a frustration I never intended… Jerry is basically three men. He’s Jerry, he’s Dr. Klein and he’s a third man, The Third Man.
I think it maybe one of things that’s so simple that it’s easy to miss. It was intended as an early clue to not let your suspicions about Dr. Klein rest with SF 100, when it was revealed he was The Third Man. Everyone missed it (which is actually a good thing because it would have kind of ruined the story if people had figured it out way back then).
Poor Atomic Fly, he’s slow on the uptake isn’t he ? 🙁
Also, it’s great seeing the original writer/artist return just in time for a late anniversary celebration. 🙂
I like Scott’s theory about Atomic Fly below.
I hope my return to art chores lives up to expectations! We’ll find out together.
At least Jerry seemed to appreciate Atomic Fly finally catching on.
Yes! He did!
Even though Spidey’s not traditionally depicted as an idiot, I get a “Spider-Man” vibe from the Atomic Fly. I can picture him sounding younger than the rest and feigning stupidity for laughs.
Scott, this is basically how I see Atomic Fly. And, like Spider-Man, he’s good-natured about it. He’s not making fun to make others feel bad. He’s just constantly amused–and he’s especially amused that not everyone has caught on to what he’s doing. He loves playing the fool.
Now I feel dumb because I didn’t really make the third man connection as a literal name until just now either. The Atomic Fly had to point it out to me 😛
See my response to Bender up there. Don’t feel bad. You’re not the only one!
Ok. I’M feeling dumb because I still don’t get the connection! 🙁
Someone explain, please?
See my response to Bender up above. You are not alone!
Fly on the wall! I love it!
Credit to Marc for the visual and behavior of Atomic Fly. Thanks, Jesse!
Oh, Jerry, *Insert obligatory Egypt related denial joke here* Today’s strip illustrates just how out of touch with reality Jerry has become and – Wait, Jerry’s third persona is just called “The Third Man” because it’s the third one? All that time I spent on my theory he was possessed by Zombie Orson Welles! *sob* I guess I go shred those files now . . .
Well, the INITIAL inspiration for the Third Man and look did come from the Orson Welles movie… so you may be on to something.
I love Jerry’s “At last, someone appreciates’ my genius” smile. 🙂
I’m telling you – just end him. Solve a whole lot of problems.
Silly as it is. My first reaction was to turn my head to read Atomic Fly’s speech bubble despite the fact that it’s right side up for once!
I didn’t go as far, but it still surprised me that the Atomic Fly finally fixed his speech problem! Great!