So, I’ve been wondering lately, does anyone still like Johnny the Homicidal Maniac (aka JTHM)? Or am I just hopelessly stuck in the early 2000s, reminiscing about this dark, twisted, satirical comic that warped my teenage brain in the best way possible?
For those who don’t know, JTHM is a comic series by Jhonen Vasquez, the same genius behind Invader Zim. It’s a cult classic in the underground comic world, originally published by Slave Labor Graphics in the late '90s. It’s all about Johnny C. (aka Nny), a psychotic and deeply disturbed guy who goes on murderous sprees while struggling with his inner demons. And trust me, it’s as wild and dark as it sounds!
I know the comic’s aesthetic might not vibe with everybody nowadays—its cynical, ultra-violent, and angsty humor feels very much like a product of its time. But that’s kind of what I love about it! There was something about Vasquez’s stark black-and-white artwork, paired with the deep social commentary hidden underneath layers of hyperbolic violence, that really spoke to me. It’s raw and unapologetic in a way that a lot of more polished modern comics aren’t.
But does JTHM still hold up? Is there anyone still out there who finds themselves diving back into the chaos and nihilism of Johnny’s world? Or maybe you’re new to it and discovered it through the Invader Zim fandom?
I personally think it’s still worth reading. Sure, some of the themes feel a bit dated, but in a weird way, it kind of makes the comic timeless, too. Its portrayal of human apathy, alienation, and the fine line between sanity and madness seems even more relevant today.
What do you all think? Do you still like JTHM? Or are you discovering it for the first time? Either way, I’d love to hear your thoughts!
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