Top 10 Far Side Cartoons

As avid readers and enthusiasts of comic strips, we can all appreciate and admire the incredible humor and creativity that cartoonists bring into our lives. One such cartoonist who has left an indelible mark on the world of comics is none other than Gary Larson, the mastermind behind “The Far Side.” With his unique and offbeat sense of humor, Larson managed to captivate readers for over 15 years with his distinctive style and wit. Today, we delve into the world of “The Far Side” and explore the top 10 cartoons that have tickled our funny bones over the years.

1. “Cow Tools”:
Earning a rightful spot on our list, “Cow Tools” is a fan favorite that perfectly encapsulates Larson’s ability to find humor in the absurd. This cartoon features a cow holding a set of inexplicable tools, confusing both the onlooking humans and the readers.

2. “Bummer of a Birthmark, Hal”:
Larson’s talent for personifying animals shines through in this strip. Hal, a shark, struggles with self-esteem issues due to his unfortunate birthmark. A hilarious and relatable look at the insecurities we all face.

3. “Boneless Chicken Ranch”:
A mocking take on fast-food chains, this cartoon depicts chickens eagerly flipping through a cookbook titled “100 Ways to Wok Your Chicken.” Larson’s clever wordplay and subtle satire make this strip truly memorable.

4. “The Trouble with Narnia”:
In this strip, a mundane wardrobe transports unsuspecting children to a parallel world filled with endless bureaucracy and paperwork. Larson’s ability to poke fun at everyday situations is on full display here.

5. “Midvale School for the Gifted”:
A classic that never fails to entertain, this comic shows a student pushing a door labeled “Pull” but still managing to run headfirst into it. A perfect example of Larson’s ability to highlight the absurdities of everyday life.

6. “Zombie Bank”:
Larson’s knack for combining the mundane with the macabre is evident in “Zombie Bank.” This cartoon depicts brain-eating zombies standing in line at a bank with a sign that reads “Next Teller Please.” A humorous commentary on our modern banking system!

7. “Deer Birth Control Clinic”:
Another gem from Larson, this strip features a group of deer queueing up outside a birth control clinic. The clever juxtaposition of human experiences against a backdrop of wildlife never fails to elicit laughter.

8. “Bears in the Woods”:
A classic example of Larson’s trademark humor, this strip shows two bears sitting in a living room surrounded by mounted human heads, with one bear asking the other if he ever gets the feeling they are being watched.

9. “Caveman Discoveries”:
In this comic, Larson humorously highlights the ages-old struggle of early humans coping with the challenges of everyday life. The strip showcases cavemen drawing dinosaurs on the walls, while one exclaims, “Alright, no more charcoal for Og’s cave paintings!”

10. “Remote Control Jokes”:
In a world obsessed with technology, Larson’s wit shines through in this strip. It shows two elephants, one holding a remote control, asking the other if they can change the channel.

FAQs:
Q: Is Gary Larson still creating new “Far Side” comics?
A: After retiring in 1995, Gary Larson has refrained from creating new “Far Side” comics, although he occasionally shares personal sketches or artwork on his website.

Q: Can I buy collections of “The Far Side” comics?
A: Absolutely! Larson’s comics are available in various collection books that bring together his best works, allowing fans to enjoy his unique sense of humor.

Q: How did “The Far Side” influence the comic strip genre?
A: “The Far Side” introduced a new level of irreverent and unconventional humor to the comic strip world, paving the way for many other cartoonists to experiment and push the boundaries of traditional comic strip storytelling.

Q: Why did Gary Larson retire from creating “The Far Side”?
A: Larson retired from creating daily “Far Side” comics to explore other creative endeavors and spend more time with his family.

Q: How can I keep up with Gary Larson’s latest updates?
A: Gary Larson occasionally shares updates and personal anecdotes on his official website, where fans can also find archived “Far Side” cartoons and other related content.

Q: Can I share “The Far Side” cartoons online?
A: While sharing a single panel or discussing a specific “Far Side” cartoon is generally permissible, reproducing or distributing entire cartoons online without permission would infringe on copyright laws.