The Far Side, the iconic comic series created by Gary Larson, has drawn inspiration from a multitude of films throughout its run. Among the various cinematic references, one film has emerged as a particularly prominent source of inspiration: The Wizard of Oz. This beloved MGM classic from 1939 is not only a staple of American cinema but has also been a favorite subject for Larson’s uniquely absurd humor.
With its vibrant fantasy and optimistic themes, The Wizard of Oz has frequently appeared in The Far Side comics. Larson’s ability to juxtapose the cheerful world of Oz with his trademark absurdism creates a compelling and comedic contrast. The result is a series of delightful parodies that reimagine familiar characters and scenes from this cherished tale, often leading to hilariously unexpected situations.
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“Spiders, Scorpions, and Insecticides, Oh My!”
May 31st, 1983
In this charming strip, three bugs trek through towering grass and gigantic flowers, filled with unease over the lurking dangers of spiders, scorpions, and insecticides. This scenario humorously parallels an iconic moment from The Wizard of Oz, where Dorothy, the Tin Man, and the Scarecrow tremble at the thought of lions, tigers, and bears. As these insects confront their own threats, one can’t help but imagine their own whimsical quest, though not necessarily for a brain or heart.
For bugs, the hazards they face are akin to the formidable challenges humans imagine when confronting apex predators. One can’t help but wonder whether these tiny protagonists will find their way as successfully as their fantastical counterparts.
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“The Circus Is Back in Town”
In this comic, a Wicked Witch eagerly reads in the newspaper about the return of the Dingling Bros Circus. Fond memories surface as she recalls a previous encounter with a clown who tricked her into smelling his water-spraying boutonnière. This ironic twist draws humor from the Wicked Witch’s infamous demise in The Wizard of Oz, where water is her ultimate downfall.
As she suffers a melted face from the clown’s boutonnière, the witch appears undeterred by the past trauma. Armed with newfound wisdom, she is determined to avoid the same watery fate during her next circus visit.
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“He Gave Me a New Brain!”
The Scarecrow excitedly calls home to share the thrilling news of receiving a new brain from the Wizard. However, his excitement quickly turns into horror as he discovers that his dog has taken a liking to the brain left unattended on the coffee table. In a typically morbid The Far Side twist, this mishap leaves readers pondering the fate of the hapless Scarecrow, who had yearned for intellect all his life.
This absurdity raises the question: how will he communicate effectively with his environment now? The comic serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of dreams and the unexpected twists that life can take.
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“Let’s Have ‘Em!”
August 7th, 1983
In this comic, Dorothy and her companions find themselves in a dark alley confronted by a threatening figure demanding their hard-earned possessions. He orders them to give up the Tin Man’s heart and the Scarecrow’s brain, highlighting the absurdity of the situation they find themselves in, far from their idyllic Oz.
The Cowardly Lion, lacking courage, is equally frightened, and the ridiculous notion of someone wanting such meaningless token gifts humorously contrasts with the characters’ journey and their real desires. This strip encapsulates the ongoing theme of The Far Side: the absurdity of life often leaves us feeling vulnerable.
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“I Just Used My Last Heart and Brain”
April 9th, 1980
In this whimsical encounter, Dorothy and the characters seek out Dr. Frankenstein in hopes of acquiring a heart and brain, only to learn that he has just executed his last creations. The punchline lands when they discover the new owners are Frankenstein’s own monster, illustrating the comic’s darker, yet humorous undertone. Fortunately, Dr. Frankenstein suggests they visit the Wizard instead, cleverly tying their quests together.
If the Tin Man and Scarecrow had succeeded in obtaining body parts from Frankenstein, the story would veer into a bizarre and terrifying realm, steering away from its original wholesome intent.
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“Why, Gary, You’ve Always Had the Power to Go Home!”
January 1st, 1995
In a touching homage to The Wizard of Oz, Glinda the Good Witch reassures Gary Larson that the key to returning home lies within him all along. Her whimsical instruction to quack three times and repeat “there’s no place like home”serves as a fitting finale for Larson’s iconic comic series. Surrounded by characters from his rich imagination, he ultimately awakens in his own bed, delighting in the absurdity of his creations.
This closing strip skillfully reflects Larson’s legacy while echoing the heartfelt themes of self-discovery prevalent in The Wizard of Oz, offering readers a surreal yet satisfying conclusion to his cherished work.
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“Marathon”
September 16th, 1981
The Scarecrow, Dorothy, and the Tin Man find themselves in a precarious situation as a marathon approaches them head-on. This unintended encounter leaves them trapped on the narrow path, unable to escape the flood of runners. The visual absurdity captures the trio’s horror, evoking empathy and laughter as they try to navigate this unforeseen obstacle.
Leaving readers on a cliffhanger, Larson’s comic emphasizes the often-chaotic nature of their journey. The beloved characters seem to be at the mercy of serendipity, with Dorothy pondering whether her ruby slippers might just save them from the impending stampede.