The Far Side is an iconic comic strip renowned for its wide-ranging subject matter, captivating readers for years with its unique blend of humor and absurdity. Unlike other comics that revolve around specific characters, this strip thrives on randomness, allowing it to craft jokes that can resonate universally. The result is a collection of comic strips infused with unexpected and often hilarious themes, keeping fans engaged long after their initial release.
Despite its comedic foundation, The Far Side occasionally delves into darker themes, exploring elements of horror lurking beneath the humor. Sometimes, the absurdity is laced with a hint of dread, leading readers to ponder the peculiarities of existence. The following selection showcases ten of the most memorable Far Side comics that might leave readers pondering their existential fears long into the night!
10 Uncanny Valley
The Far Side Explores the Horrors of the Uncanny Valley
The Uncanny Valley refers to the unsettling area of resemblance in humanoid forms that appear almost—but not quite—real. The Far Side’s interpretation captures this eerie phenomenon perfectly. The characters depicted may resemble familiar figures but possess unsettlingly simplistic facial features, creating an atmosphere of discomfort that lingers with viewers.
9 Nuclear War
The Far Side Plays on the Fear of Nuclear War
This striking comic portrays the grim reality of nuclear warfare, juxtaposed against a television blaring that it’s merely a test. The chilling imagery of destruction juxtaposes the false reassurance of the broadcast, making the humor darkly ironic and thought-provoking.
8 Imminent Danger
The Far Side Captures That Critical Moment Before Tragedy Strikes
This comic poignantly illustrates the impending doom awaiting a man curiously peeking into a rocket launch site. Readers instantly comprehend the fate that awaits him, as he unwittingly puts himself in the line of fire—an embodiment of the saying, “curiosity killed the cat.”
7 Demonic Horror
The Far Side Explores Demonic Horror with the Devil as the Antagonist
In a humorous yet chilling twist, a man enters an elevator only to be confronted by another passenger—the devil disguised in a fashionable coat. As the devil arranges their shared journey to hell, this comic highlights the absurdity of fate while capturing the quintessential essence of horror.
6 Fear of Dentists
The Far Side Plays on Common Dental Phobias
This comic brings to life the dread many feel when visiting the dentist. The image of a man helplessly bound in a dental chair while a dentist prepares to experiment with a tennis ball is both absurd and nightmarish—perfect fodder for those with dental anxiety.
5 Cosmic Horror
Here, an astronaut on a distant planet confronts an alien version of a familiar landmark—reminding us of the potential horrors that lie beyond our world. This comic encapsulates cosmic horror, leaving readers to grapple with the unsettling possibilities of extraterrestrial life and civilizations beyond comprehension.
4 Watched By a Giant
The Far Side Merges the Fear of Surveillance with the Imposing Nature of Giants
In this unsettling scene, a woman casually discusses a giant eye hovering outside her window, unaware of the profound horror in her situation. This portrayal amplifies the discomfort of being watched, artfully blending humor with gothic dread.
3 Man-Eating Mailbox
A Mailbox Transforms into an Unexpected Horror
This comic features a seemingly ordinary mailbox that reveals its sinister nature when it devours an unsuspecting mail carrier. The contrast between mundane tasks and the surreal horror of a sentient mailbox serves to highlight the humor inherent in the absurd.
2 Body Horror
The Far Side Delves into Body Horror with Disturbing Imagery
A group of scientists witnesses an extreme form of body transformation, as one member has devolved into a puddle of flesh. The nonchalant attitude of the scientists serves to amplify the horrific nature of the scenario, striking a dissonant chord with readers unacquainted with such drastic outcomes.
1 Scary Monster
The Far Side Knows There’s Nothing Scarier than a Classic Scary Monster
This comic showcases a terrifying creature, reminiscent of a dragon, as it breaks into a house with malicious intent. The juxtaposition of a mundane home setting with the horror of a monstrous invasion taps into primal fears, ensuring that readers are left haunted long after turning the page.
These captivating strips exemplify how The Far Side masterfully blends humor with horror, engaging readers on multiple levels. Each comic serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of life, teasing out laughter amid the absurdity and dread.