Mesotheliomatic

In 2009, the Watchmen movie, directed by Zack Snyder, was released. I don't remember the date when I researched the movie. I knew how it ended.

But I didn't know how it went.

A few weeks ago, I rented the entire limited series from the library, all 12 issues of grim darkness collected into a well-proportioned graphic novel. Now, I'm only two-thirds into the book, but know I understand why people loved the comic. Well, not love; but there is something enthralling about such a bitter comic series, that examines superheroes through the darkest of lenses. Marvel and DC have always played with the idea about superheroes influencing the world around them in a realistic way; few are as grim or powerful as Watchmen, however.

The story takes place in an alternate timeline, where superheroes have heavily influenced the 20th century; especially with the all-powerful Dr. Manhattan, who seems to take the place of Superman. Sadly, there aren't as many, more outrageous heroes like Martian Manhunter or Spiderman, though that's not important. Actually, most of them wouldn't be considered heroes. Most of the 'heroes' are flawed, broken people; the nicest guy is Nite Owl II, but without crime-fighting, he's a neurotic loser.

The story is the perfect way to analyze the subject of the impact of superheroes on the larger world. Rorschach's darkness revealed; Dr. Manhattan experiencing every moment he ever lived and ever lived; Silk Spectre and Nite Owl's eventual return to crime-fighting; all of these moments, these glimpses into the human condition... I know why people like Watchmen

Note to self, though: I need to binge on My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic and Adventure Time after finishing this. Too much darkness is bad for you.