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Creative Team
Script: Kyle Starks; Story Plotting: Kyle Starks, Patton Oswalt, & Jordan Blum; Art: Ryan Browne; Colors: Ryan Browne & Kevin Knipstein; Letters: Nate Piekos of Blambot; Covers A and D Artists: Scott Hepburn with Ian Herring; Cover B: Evan Dorkin with Sarah Dyer.
Barfly by Dark Horse Comics
Many bars have barflies, but no one else has a literal barfly who has a villain-esque past, and friends he’d do anything for. Last year Dark Horse comics introduced us to the world of Minor Threats: a superhero world like you’ve never seen!
Jordan Blum and Patton Oswalt created this superhero world, where superheroes are really just the supporting characters. Meanwhile the “villains” and runner ups (better known as The Alternates), are the main story. Last month an adorably disgusting character in this Minor Threats world got his own comic, and the adventure continues in Barfly issue 2.
Check out the review for Minor Threats-The Fastest Way Down #1.
The Story for Issue 2
This issue kicks off right where issue 1 ended: at the bar. The story continues for the the cutest and sweetest, anarchist, Barfly. This time we learn a bit about Barfly’s past (AKA S***eater). It’s a sad, lonely, and creepily disturbing past. However, in true Minor Threats fashion, it’s grossly hilarious at the same time. S***eater’s “dad” is out of jail and ready for action! Sadly our Barfly , has some daddy issues and is quick to eat more s*** to seek his approval. As we see him fall right into old habits, there still seems to be some hope. As this wingless little Barfly really does have a big heart and some sweet skills.
The Art
Throughout this issue the art tells a story all its own. While the main plot is grossly and beautifully moved forward by the art, the background adds so much. From bumper stickers, to posters, to ‘tears of unemployment’ written next to actual tears, the background had me giggling from the first page to the last.
However, it never takes away from the overall story. It simply adds it. Barfly’s dad, the Entomologist, can control bugs (not just ants), and the level of detail with this alone impresses and disgusts at the same time.
A few different artists have joined in bringing the Minor Threats world to life, and they have all nailed the balance of beauty, detail, humor, and occasionally grossness. With each issue I look forward to the art as much as I do the story.
Barfly #2 Rating 9.5/10
As we dig deeper into the Minor Threats world the real villain seems to be bad parenting. Barfly is no exception. While his “dad” just wants to use him, his friends see the real him. Sadly though, he doesn’t seem to see what his friends see. Overall, Barfly is a tragically, hilarious, gross, and incredibly sweet story about a beer loving giant fly man with no wings. If you haven’t dove into the world of Minor Threats yet, grab Barfly, crack a beer (or whatever your favorite beverage may be), and enjoy! You won’t regret it. Cheers!
Lauren is half of Hops GEEK News: a weekly podcast that discusses all things geek pop culture, while enjoying a craft beer of the week. They also interview many different people from the comic book world and beyond.
Check out the Nerd Initiative Interview with the creators of Minor Threats, the Fastest Way Down.
