I tend to use my Monday space to talk about Archie Comics. And what often happens is that once I get several columns together, I will turn them into a podcast. I’m not one to chase the hottest comics or the newest things from specific creators. They all have their place, but it isn’t exactly my niche.
I get that not everyone will want to read Archie, but there are plenty of fans willing to give them a try. Admittedly, Archie is often an acquired taste, and I spent many years not even giving them a chance. Here’s one thing: they are one of three publishers still publishing since comic books basically began. That alone should mean something to fans.
Now, something rather cool has happened over the past few weeks. Archie is now part of Global Comix. They recently dropped hundreds of comics there, and they are also day-and-date. When they get released at the comic shops, they are also available on Global Comix. And, if you’re not a member of Global Comix, you should. It’s one of the best values out there for comic fans.
For some reason, I’m not into Jay and Silent Bob or much into Kevin Smith either. No real reason, but like many fans, I get in and out of comics at different stages in life. Smith was in one of those lulls, and I haven’t read all that much of his comics. There’s only so much time in a day!
With that said, Kevin Smith Presents: Archie Meets Jay and Silent Bob One-Shot is an enthusiastically wild crossover that fulfills its titular promise through a blend of irreverent humor, nostalgic elements, and surprising emotional depth. The distinctive comedic style of Smith’s View Askewniverse clashes delightfully with the innocent appeal of Riverdale as Archie takes on summer employment at the Quick Stop, where he becomes entangled in a series of misadventures alongside Jay, Silent Bob, and Randal Graves.
The narrative brims with references to popular culture, features a musical sequence, and contains an unexpectedly touching exploration of loss and personal development that mirrors motifs from Clerks III. Smith’s genuine appreciation for Archie’s mythology is evident through clever references and an earnest effort to respect both fictional worlds. The artwork by Fernando Ruiz, complemented by Rich Koslowski’s inking, successfully merges comedic physicality with traditional Archie visual styling.
Though this crossover is unquestionably bizarre, it serves as a tribute to enthusiasts of both properties. The adult-oriented approach might catch veteran Archie fans off guard, yet it’s executed with sufficient emotional resonance to feel justified. Regardless of whether readers seek the stoner humor or Riverdale’s interpersonal dynamics, this extended issue provides generous portions of each element. A fitting tribute to both worlds, without question.
Let’s talk about a fun, sooky digest. Archie Showcase Digest #24: Halfway to Halloween delivers almost 200 pages of eerie entertainment, though it relies predominantly on vintage reprinted material instead of fresh content. The collection features stories involving ghost-filled estates, masquerade celebrations, and supernatural hijinks, all assembled to mark the midpoint to Halloween with characteristic Archie flair.
And, yes, the whole issue is nothing but spooky tales, but there are some interesting stories, including some characters I am not all that familiar with in Riverdale lore. For example, you get the Weirdleys, a quirky and eccentric… possibly related to the Addams Family. Then there is Scarlet Helsing, a 200-year-old vampire from Redlands who takes on the guise of a human student. She’s at the center of a dramatic three-part tale that blends mystery, horror, and supernatural intrigue.
In case you didn’t get enough of the spooky stuff, try Jughead #78: Facsimile Edition. It serves as a sentimental treasure that honors Archie Comics’ supernatural heritage by presenting a complete reproduction of the 1961 original edition, including every flaw, advertisement, and authentic detail. The collection contains six narratives, featuring a pair of Jughead adventures along with a single-page Li’l Jinx story that had previously remained unreprinted.
There you go—new Archie’s to check out! And, while you’re seeking them out, go and see what else you can find. Archie isn’t kids’ comics, but all-ages fun!
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