Holly – Page 96 – Son of Stuck Funky

Army Brat

billytheskink
August 12, 2012 at 4:15 am
The CW in the Army? I like it…in the unlikely event that TB follows through on the implication in this strip, that is.

Less shocking than Cory’s announcment that he’s enlisting is the fact that Batiuk is indeed following through from the Sunday strip three weeks ago. As was noted when we saw Cory doing those chinups at the recruitment booth, an aimless, able-bodied young man such as he might benefit from a stint in the military. Looks like it’s already having an effect on the boy: he’s already ditched his Wilma Flintstone necklace.

Funky's Turn

Today’s strip at least supplies a little ex post facto context for Les’ curious “coma” quip: poor guy’s just looking forward to a little respite from life’s unceasing demands. Holly and Cory seem to materialize from out of nowhere. “Dad…we need to talk.” Now there’s an understatement! Think this is going to go well?

I Melt with You

As this week of filler comes to a close, Funky’s regression from little old lady to annoying child is complete.

A Car with No Name

“Nice car, Funky…”
“…Did you get a good deal on the lease?”
“…How’s the gas mileage?”
“…Have you given it a name yet?“ Yes, friends, only in the Funkiverse would that third question be the one that gets asked of a new car owner (ok, lessee). Indeed, Funky has given some thought to this matter: turns out that to unwisely choose your car’s name will invite a “beat-down”. From whom? The Happiness Police?

Clown Car

We know it’s a new car because it’s giving off little “sparkle” lines. What isn’t new is the gag here: Funky’s so pleased with himself for having remembered to bring the necessary documentation with him to the dealer, but in the midst of crowing about it, he is reminded of his own fallibility.

Whatever else can be said about Tom Batiuk, I happen to think he’s got some pretty good musical tastes. Along with today’s Steve Earle reference, in the past he’s had Funky and Holly dancing to a Rodney Crowell tune, and he’s name-dropped Mink DeVille in an interview.

But he still can’t draw cars for shit. How’s Funky even gonna fit in that thing?