Movies News Talk
They had six seasons. At last, they are having their dream movie. Many Community viewers, meanwhile, might not be aware that the cult TV success also had a comic book all the way back in 2010. Kickpuncher, the only Community comic book available thus far, stars Troy and Abed's preferred low-budget action hero and is an odd curio.
Claimed to be penned by Troy Barnes, Kickpuncher #1 (accessible at jimmahfood.com) notes that Annie and Britta are kidnapped after the Study Group is suddenly attacked by snake men. Troy And Abed call on Kickpuncher, who helps the best friends get their buddies back, because nowhere else to turn. Though it's simply a six-page mini-comic, the little adventure will probably satisfy fans seeking something to keep them going until the movie opens.
Surprisingly, the only Community tie-in Comic Book available is the Kickpuncher mini-comic book. Dan Harmon first gained recognition working in the independent comics industry before succeeding in Hollywood. Along with some-time Community Rob Schrab, Harmon co-created Scud: The Disposable Assassin Harmon used his old comic book contacts to produce the six-page adventure, hiring indie artist Jim Mahfood to assist craft the plot and offer a punk-rock, underground look with his expressive, cartoony artwork.
Jim Mahfood turns out to be the ideal person to handle the sequential adventures of the study group since he creates a ridiculous (but entertaining) narrative just from Troy Barnes' imagination. Of course, Troy and Abed are the stars of the comic; they merely stand aside to let their hero Kickpuncher work his magic on the evil Snake Men. The little "story" serves as a vehicle for ridicule of some of the more eye-rolling Comic Book clichés. Almost immediately, Troy's young imagination sees Britta and Annie stripped down to their underwear; the leaps in logic throughout operate as little more than justification for excellent kick-punching action.
Dan Harmon briefly discussed how the exclusive comic got started in an interview with EW.com at the time the DVD was released. Most intriguingly, Harmon also plays on the prospect of additional community comics:
"My hope is that this will tickle the desire and prove to be a successful item so we can — not unlike The Simpsons — someday have several Community outlets for expression. Stated differently, doing a 25-20 page Kickpuncher comic book created by Troy and/or Abed would be quite amazing. Alternatively other characters can alternate in writing to exact retribution on Troy's narrative.
Designed by Dan Harmon, Community is a comedy show featuring a study group in an unusual community college where daily wacky activities take place. Reluctantly forming a study group, disgraced lawyer Jeff Winger is entangled in with fellow students from many origins, colors, faiths, and ages when he has enroll in a local college to acquire a degree and reinstate himself. As they all endeavor to find their destiny, these charming misfits will negotiate their school life in some almost incredible circumstances.
Known for its brilliant meta-references, sharp humor, and ensemble cast of eccentric characters, community is now a beloved sitcom. The program has attracted a devoted audience and is still rather popular long after its television broadcast.
Beyond only its popularity on television, the show has generated a devoted following, created innumerable memes, and spawned a distinctive subculture. Community has become a cult classic thanks in large part to its mix of humor, heart, and surprising turns.
The much awaited Community Movie, which promises to bring the cherished characters back to the screen for a last hurrah, is much awaited by the fans. Expected to resume up where the show left off, the film provides a nostalgic pleasure for devoted viewers and closes the venerable study group.
Sadly, not another Community comic has surfaced since Kickpuncher #1 was published. Harmon's concept of having every study group member "write" their own comic adventures sounds like a fresh concept, particularly if intriguing illustrators like Jim Mahfood can participate. Maybe now is the moment for fresh comics about the Greendale team as the Community Movie approaches reality.
The Kickpuncher comic provides a singular window into Troy Barnes's mind, a man renowned for his passion of action films and his young energy. Troy's imagination and enjoyment of corny, low-budget movies are exactly reflected in the comic's strange plot, full of overdone action and over-the-top humor. The comic reminds us of the show's capacity to welcome ridiculousness and generate comedy from unanticipated sources.