The charm of The Far Side lies in its depiction of underdogs, often exemplified through the whimsical and absurd scenarios crafted by Gary Larson. Many of his cartoons feature characters, typically animals, faced with overwhelming odds yet display resilience and creativity in their quest for victory or revenge. Each scenario, regardless of its outcome, evokes laughter in true Larson style.
12 The Far Side Animals Embrace the Underdog Mentality
First Published: February 14, 1986
In one such comic, a group of injured animals, seemingly defeated after an encounter with humans, find new strength to reclaim their dignity. Instead of retreating into despair, they rally together under the guidance of a bear, ready to take matters into their own paws. This scenario poignantly showcases how even those deemed underdogs can muster the courage to challenge their fate against powerful foes.
Despite being aware of their status as underdogs, the bear motivates them to resist the natural order. This comic reflects a powerful theme in Larson’s work: that the oppressed can fight back and secure their own justice, making it relatable to both animal lovers and humans alike.
11 The Far Side’s Pets Take Control of Their Fates
First Published: June 24, 1980
Contrasting with the previous cartoon’s empowerment theme, this comic humorously illustrates a twist of fate. The depicted scene showcases a bird liberated from its cage—only to find its owner trapped inside. The humor lies in the absurdity: the pet bird takes control of the situation, symbolizing the reversal of roles. It creatively conveys that even animals perceived as weaker can seize the moment to turn tables on their human captors.
10 Sloths Challenging the Speed Narrative in The Far Side
First Published: July 3, 1987
In a world that often underestimates sloths due to their famously slow nature, Larson flips expectations. In this comic, a sloth defies its sluggish reputation by successfully drawing a gun faster than a quicker opponent in a comically absurd showdown. Set against the backdrop of a classic Western duel, this comic showcases how even the slowest creatures can triumph against faster foes. Larson’s unique ability to surprise readers remains a hallmark of his work, encouraging viewers to reconsider preconceived notions of ability and speed.
9 Humans as Underdogs in The Far Side
First Published: February 5, 1985
While many of Larson’s comics spotlight animals as the quintessential underdogs, there are instances where humans find themselves at a disadvantage as well. In this comic, a man crawls through a desert, desperately seeking water, only to be threatened by a vulture prepared to drop a piano on him. This humorous yet darkly ironic situation flips the narrative, illustrating that even the most dominant species can find themselves in dire straits. It serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of nature’s creatures and the balance of power.
8 Underdogs in The Far Side Take Unexpected Routes to Victory
First Published: May 30, 1990
This Far Side comic takes a darkly humorous twist on survival when a clever chicken disguises itself in a dog’s costume to escape the dinner table. The punchline arrives when the chicken asks, “Would you like to know where your little Fifi is?”This clever ruse highlights how underestimated creatures can outwit humans—transforming perceived weakness into strategic advantage. In a world where certain animals are treated as food, this comic underscores the absurdities and ironies of survival.
7 Humans as Underdogs to Their Own Pets in The Far Side
First Published: February 17, 1984
While many cartoons portray humans as dominant figures in their homes, some instances depict a terrifying reality where pets, especially those of significant size or power, can turn the tables. In a defining moment from The Far Side, a man searches for his runaway pet, only to discover it’s a giant squid lurking nearby. The implication is clear: should the pet turn against its owner, the outcome doesn’t bode well for the unsuspecting human. This scenario humorously emphasizes the precarious nature of pet ownership.
6 The Far Side’s Underdogs Return for Rematches
First Published: August 11, 1993
In another humorous twist, a one-legged frog stands over a collapsed chef, declaring, “I always knew he’d be back one day to get the other one!”This bizarre twist illustrates how some creatures can exact revenge on those who once wronged them. Through humor, Larson captures the essence of underdogs striking back when least expected, offering a fresh perspective on justice in the animal kingdom.
5 Humans vs. Dinosaurs in The Far Side
First Published: March 29, 1985
In a particularly precarious situation, a cleaning lady inadvertently activates a time machine, landing her in the midst of dinosaurs—a true struggle for survival. The absurdity of the scenario exemplifies that in the face of overwhelming power, humans are reduced to vulnerable conditions. This depiction highlights the unpredictability of encounters in nature, emphasizing humanity’s frail position in contrast to the might of dinosaurs.
4 The Far Side Shows Size Isn’t Everything
First Published: February 28, 1983
A humorous twist occurs when two goldfish ingeniously trap their owner in a booby trap, leaving her dangling from the ceiling. The absurdity of the situation, as the fish cheer, “It worked! It worked!”showcases how small creatures can orchestrate elaborate plans against seemingly superior foes. Larson’s work often thrives on the sheer absurdity of situations where underdogs not only survive but thrive against the odds.
3 The Far Side: Godzilla vs. the Ultimate Underdog
First Published: April 19, 1985
In a wonderfully absurd showdown, a small dog named Toby faces off against the legendary Godzilla. Despite the apparent mismatch, Larson’s cartoons often present situations where the seemingly weaker protagonist emerges victorious. The unpredictable nature of The Far Side allows for the humor found in this unlikely matchup, reminding readers that underdogs can sometimes defy all expectations.