Maria Bamford and Scott Marvel Cassidy present Hogbook and Lazer Eyes – a graphic novel retelling of the events of the acclaimed Netflix quasi-autobiographical comedy Lady Dynamite through the eyes of their pet dogs. Newly single fortysomethings Maria Bamford and Scott Cassidy each signed up on the dating site OkCupid, under the respective usernames “Hogbook” and “Lazer Eyes.” They went on a date, and then another, and soon, despite a history of Bipolar II disorder and unhealthy relationships for each of them, they fell in love and were married in 2015.
Running for two series on Netflix, Lady Dynamite was a hit with viewers for its approach to mental health and made stars out of the leading couple’s pet dogs. The show now has a new lease on life with this graphic novel which retells the show from the perspective of said dogs.
As viewers of the show will know, Scott Cassidy is an accomplished fine artist. But with all his experience in painting, sculpture and collage, this is his first attempt at comic book art. Fortunately, he adapts these skills to great effect and proves himself to be a natural when it comes to graphic storytelling, especially regarding comedy. His approach to illustration has elements of realism whilst largely adopting an underground aesthetic reminiscent of Robert Crumb. It is a potent combination and works particularly well with Bamford and Scott’s dog contingent.
The bulk of the strips that make up Hogbook and Lazer Eyes see Blueberry and Burt observing the everyday life of their owners with much of the comedy derived from their unique interpretation of events and their owners’ actions. As more rescue dogs arrive to make up the menagerie (along with a few passing away), the new arrivals soon add their own perspectives whilst forming new bonds with the group. Their antics range from failing to exercise control when their owners bring back leftovers from a restaurant to searching trash for food. But there is some poignant storytelling on display as well with the owners’ mental health struggles – particularly bipolar disorder – coming across as highly relatable and moving, even through the eyes of their pet dogs.
For fans of Lady Dynamite, this comic is a must read. Those who are also looking for a frank and honest look at mental health without taking itself too seriously will also get a lot out of Hogbook and Lazer Eyes.
Hogbook and Lazer Eyes is out now from Fantagraphics (9781683967736, h/b, £19.99)
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