Opus, the main character, is a lovable but slightly clumsy penguin. He is often seen trying to find his place in the world, and his adventures lead him to meet a diverse cast of characters. The strip is known for its humorous depiction of the human condition, and Opus often serves as a mirror to our own folly.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Opus is the relationships between the characters. There is a mix of friendship, loathing, and love, which makes the comic strip engaging and captivating. For instance, Opus falls in love with Lola, a spunky woman who is part cat, part human. Lola is drawn with a sassy and playful attitude, and the relationship between her and Opus becomes a source of much of the humor in the strip.
Another character in the comic strip is Steve Dallas, who is Opus’s arch-nemesis. Steve is portrayed as a narcissistic and egotistical lawyer who is always looking out for himself. However, as the strip progresses, we see the vulnerable and gentle side of Steve’s character. His relationships and interactions with other characters help us to understand the complexities of his personality.
The comic strip also features a cast of other animals, including Bill the Cat, a moth-eaten feline with a drug problem, and the Cockroach, a witty and insightful character who often provides commentary on the human condition. In many ways, Opus is a microcosm of society where different personalities and characters coexist and interact in unexpected ways.
One of the defining characteristics of the comic strip is its satirical and politically charged themes. Breathed uses the characters and their adventures to comment on the social and political issues of the day. For example, Opus remarks on the 2000 US presidential elections and the contentious issues surrounding it. Other themes that the comic strip tackles include environmentalism, feminism, and animal rights.
The art style of Opus is distinctive, and Breathed’s illustrations are bold and expressive. His line work and use of colors create a whimsical and fantastical world where anything is possible. The comic strip’s visual humor complements its wry humor, providing readers with a multifaceted and engaging reading experience.
Although Opus ended its run in November 2008, its impact on the comic strip world is significant. The comic strip’s creative storytelling, witty humor, and insightful commentary on the human condition set the standard for many of the comic strips that followed. Breathed’s dedication to his craft and his unique vision make Opus an enduring classic that continues to inspire and entertain readers.
In conclusion, Opus is a comic strip that is beloved by many for its humor, perspective, and artistry. The characters, stories, and themes are a reflection of the world we live in, and Breathed’s unique take on it invites us to see it in a different light. The comic strip is a testament to the power of humor to make sense of the world and to bring us closer together. It is no wonder that Opus has stood the test of time and continues to captivate new generations of readers.