Wednesday, June 20, 2007

A Wizard, a True Fiend

Stan Lee and Jack Kirby. Along with Steve Ditko, these two men built the Marvel Universe. They’re names to conjure with in comics circles, because they created some of the most original, exciting comics the world had ever seen.

One of their creations, the Marvel Comics version of Thor, brought together high-energy superheroics with a mix of science fiction and mythology. It was truly awe-inspiring stuff – the comics version of opera. But never let it be said they didn't take time to smell the roases. They knew that sometimes, the little things mean the most.

With that in mind, I’d like to present this single page from The Mighty Thor #179, the final issue Kirby drew. It features the diabolical Loki, lord of lies…

…versus hotel room service.

(click to enlarge)


I really can’t get over this page. Not only does Loki totally screw over the hotel staff, but he does it in the most dickish way possible. He could have just signed for it, and then skipped out on his hotel bill when he was done. But no, he has to conjure a fat wad of cash for these guys, only for it to disappear once he’s long gone. Loki Odinson is all about the dine and dash.

That’s just how he rolls.

I haven’t read the end of the story yet, but I hope there’s a panel of Thor swinging his mighty Uru hammer, shouting “For the wronged staff of the Waldorf Astoria, I stand against thee! Compensate them truly, including a tip commensurate with service, or know the Son of Odin will smite thee with the mighty Mjonlir!”

Loki is a bad, bad man.

Rob

3 comments:

Travis said...

Is it me or does the one guy look like R.J. Brande? It is probably just me

Ami Angelwings said...

I think Loki should be forced to wash the dishes at the end! XD

Rob S. said...

He does look a bit like RJ, doesn't he? He probably turned to building stargates after this firsthand example of how the service industries can break you down.