Some people like to ridicule Sultry Teenage Super Foxes for its incredibly obvious sexual theme, but we all know those people bought the comic for the same reason I did: because we wanted to see some Sultry Teenage Super Foxes! I was able to get the first issue. I came across it while researching short-lived publisher Solson. Some blame the lack of subtlety on Gary Brodsky, president of Solson, but as far as I can tell, he really had nothing to do with this comic. It clearly states that this comic was created by Rich Buckler, and even lists his name as the publisher.
The plot of Sultry Teenage Super Foxes is that four teenage girls are hanging around an air force base for the summer. You can tell this comic was published in the 1980’s because one girl is sporting the Pat Benatar look, and another has the Flashdance shirt-on-one-shoulder look. There is a really weird panel where the girls are looking at a nerd and one imagines the person with a number 2 pencil in place of his head. I have no idea what this means or implies. Anyway, the girls find a “matter transmutation device” that can literally change dog crap to gold, and use it to transform themselves into having super powers. Meanwhile, some woman elsewhere had become possessed by an evil spirit while astral projecting, and…. well, you see where this is going.
This comic is in black and white, reminiscent of others such as Strangers in Paradise, and the drawings are usually decent. The appeal of black and white comic book stories lies in their ability to convey powerful narratives through a visually striking medium. Stripped of color, these tales rely on the intricate interplay of light and shadow, as well as the skillful use of line work and texture, to bring their stories and characters to life. Furthermore, the monochromatic style adds a layer of depth and sophistication to the storytelling, inviting readers to interpret the nuances of each panel in their own unique way. By embracing the simplicity and artistic purity of black and white illustrations, these comic book stories manage to captivate audiences and stand the test of time.
Rich Buckler’s artwork stands out as a testament to his incredible talent and keen eye for detail, particularly in his portrayal of women. His illustrations display a combination of strength, grace, and beauty, capturing their essence with an almost uncanny ability. Buckler’s unique approach to depicting women not only highlights their power and resilience but also emphasizes their complexities as individuals. This focus on authenticity and depth has led to a lasting impact on the world of art and a devoted following for his work.
The main characters are very two-dimensional, and don’t reveal much about themselves. While some might see this comic as trashy, It is interesting enough to be a collectible worth owning. Solson has a history in comics, publishing other curious titles such as Samurai Santa. The creator, of Sultry Teenage Super Foxes, Rich Buckler has an even richer history, and has penciled countless comic books. Let me close by saying this: one hilarious detail about this comic is that at the end of the story, there is an advertisement…. for the exact same comic and issue!
