Grumpy Old Monsters

    (IDW, 2003–2004)
™ and © Idea + Design Works LLC

Universal’s beloved stable of classic monsters has been lampooned many times over the years, but Grumpy Old Monsters is refreshingly unusual in its geriatric approach. Cute renditions of horror icons Dracula, Frankenstein’s Monster, The Mummy, The Invisible Man, The Wolfman, and The Creature from the Black Lagoon are living out their golden years in Rest in Peace, “a retirement care facility for mature monsters with special needs.” This is an excellent concept with virtually endless comedic possibilities, and a number are on display in this first issue, including Dracula’s fanged dentures, The Invisible Man’s “poker face,” and Frankenstein’s workout routine.

Science-fiction authors Kevin J. Anderson and Rebecca Moesta (Anderson’s wife) obviously have a fondness for the source material, as they treat the featured creatures with respect and affection. Most telling is the scene in which The Wolfman says, “Ahhhrr, Castle Frankenstein … I had some good times there. Remember, we had quite a tussel, eh, monster?” To which the Frankenstein monster replies with a sheepish grin, “We sure did, Wolf-Man.” (Obviously, this refers to Frankenstein Meets the Wolfman).

Grumpy Old Monsters is a delight through and through, but it is a bit pricey at four bucks, especially since it takes just a handful of minutes to read. Also, the art may be too cartoony for monster purists. Still, Universal horror buffs with a sense of humor and those who enjoy Little Gloomy Adventures should pick it up.

—Brett Weiss
Jump to issue:
  • 1
    #1
    Nov 2003
    Cover: $3.99
    W: Kevin J. Anderson, Rebecca Moesta  ·  A: Guillermo Mendoza, Paco Cavero
    2 copies from $2.99
  • 2
    #2
    Jan 2004
    Cover: $3.99
    W: Kevin J. Anderson, Rebecca Moesta  ·  A: Guillermo Mendoza, Paco Cavero
    1 copy for $2.99
  • 3
    #3
    Feb 2004
    Cover: $3.99
    W: Kevin J. Anderson, Rebecca Moesta  ·  A: Guillermo Mendoza, Paco Cavero
    1 copy for $2.99
  • Bk 1
    Book #1
    Oct 2004
    Cover: $13.99
    W: Kevin J. Anderson, Rebecca Moesta  ·  A: Guillermo Mendoza, Paco Cavero
    Collects #1-4
    1 copy for $9.99