Episode 58
Greetings, Explorers! The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen. Alan Moore wrote the story and Kevin O’Neill is the artist. America’s Best Comics published the book in 1999. Set in the Victorian Era,The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen takes place near the end of the 19th Century. Mina Murray and Allan Quatermain, literary characters of the era, are recruited to stop a plot meant to destroy London. Joining them in the fight are Dr. Jekyll (and Mr. Hyde), the Invisible Man, and Captain Nemo. Consequently, while racing to stop the plot, they run into many characters from 19th century books and beyond.
Frankie, Dennis, and Johnny begin the episode by accidentally insulting 15-year-old Frances’s love for Keanu Reeves. It especially hurt as we made fun of his portrayal of Jonathan Harker. Additionally, Frankie comes up with an alternative title for the League to go by — it rhymes with basshole. The depiction of races in The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen is discussed. Is it a reflection of the time the books take place or not?
The gang discusses the number of Easter Eggs hidden in the story. In addition, they ask if The League is a group of superheroes or not. On a more serious note, they look at the portrayal of sexual assault in the book. Other topics include the proposed podcast “Frankie Skims”; the possible influence of G.I. Joe: The Movie on the book; why you don’t want to be in a hot air balloon with an invisible man; and last, but not least, the storytelling and art of The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen.
Check out our reading lists for previous seasons by clicking here. We would love to hear your suggestions for future episodes of Graphic Novel Explorers Club.
Songe d’Automne by Latche Swing
