“Odd couple”- like Web comic, random and fun

I’m a firm believer that there are no new plots left on earth. A careful study of Hollywood has led me to this conclusion.

The Internet isn’t much better, but at least we get plenty of refreshingly well-done takes on some of the old classics.

Such is the case of my recommendation for this week. Rob and Elliot is a Webcomic that, at first glance, appears to be just another “Odd Couple” rip-off. Once you start reading, though, the true, original genius begins to shine through.

“Rob and Elliot” is about two roommates named, for your convenience, Rob and Elliot. Elliot is the hard worker in the apartment – he’s responsible, he’s normal. Rob, on the other hand, is not.

So, the first level of humor comes from the two personalities bouncing off each other. The writing in this regard is good enough to stand alone, but when the two friends start meeting cosmic space fish or perpetually making out with cherubim that really gets things going.

Such off-the-wall humor is hard to pull off, but the creators of the strip Clay and Hampton Yount do it very well. You find yourself believing, against your better judgment, that you really could one day meet Waldo on the street.

If I had to compare the comedic style to a more mainstream entity, I’d have to say “The Family Guy.” The strip has that same often random, sometimes shocking, always fun vibe as the popular TV series.

The comic, which updates every Monday and Friday, can be found at www.robandelliot.cycomics.com.They have a decent-sized archive to read through, so be sure to check that out as well.

Just as a warning, you will find occasional profanity, but nothing beyond a PG rating.

-steveshinney@cc.usu.edu