Writers: Ivan Cohen and Bill Mathey
Art: Walter Carzon with Silvana Brys and Candace Schinzler-Bell (colorists)
Publisher: DC Comics
Price: $2.99
Release date: January 9th, 2024
If you’re interested in this comic, series, related trades, or any of the others mentioned, then simply click on the title/link to snag a copy through Amazon as you read the Looney Tunes #276 Review.
THE DISPATCH
In a spoof a classic film noir movie, Lola Bunny is an investigative journalist. Then Bugs must seek the help of Taz to bedevil gangsters Rocky and Mugsy. Looney Tunes #276 is a real treat for those who are fans of the character of Taz or if you enjoy spoofs of film noir. Lola’s narration in the first story definitely does a good job of parodying the narration of the stereotypical gritty detective in noir movies and novels. The issue further exaggerates the spoof by titling the name of the newspaper Lola works for “The Daily Noir”.
What’s also interesting is the casting of Yosemite Sam for the role of Lola’s boss, especially since he is usually a villainous character. Another funny thing is the signage and newspaper write-ups, such as “Never-Go Fitness”, perhaps as a subtle way to poke fun at all the readers who make new year’s resolutions to work out more and then end up never going to the gym. Also, a newspaper quotes Lola as saying “Whatever Lola Wants”, a homage to the classic song of the same name. One thing that may be bothersome to some readers, is that they are inconsistent with Elmer Fudd’s famous speech impediment, as he says “lady” instead of “wady” in this comic, while at other times “w” is substituted for “r” or “l”. He only has a minor part, but hardcore fans may be annoyed.
The second story once again features Taz, Rocky and Mugsy, but this time features Bugs as the main character instead of Lola. In a change from the usual type of story, which would feature Bugs outsmarting the gangsters or Taz, this story actually shows Bugs working with Taz against the gangsters. It is just as humorous and adds more wackiness to the story.
ART
The art in Looney Tunes #276 is typical for the Looney Tunes style. It presents the characters you love in the traditional way. One thing worth noting is that while Lola mostly wears a trench coat in the first story to add to the film noir spoof, Yosemite Sam is still in his normal Western outlaw attire. The only change made to his ensemble is a big tag reading “editor” sticking out of his hat. A notable standout of the art is the drawing of Rocky and Mugsy drawn by the sketch artist in the story. It is very ornate, detailed and brightly colored. The art in the second story really portrays physical, slapstick comedy well, as Rocky and Mugsy endure a lot of punishment.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Looney Tunes #276 presents two very fun stories. It is especially entertaining for those who are fans of Taz and/or Rocky and Mugsy. If you like the character of Lola Bunny or the genre of film noir, you will definitely appreciate the first story. This issue respects the Looney Tunes characters well, while also deviating from what readers normally expect to some extent, in order to keep us on our toes and provide more laughs.