Posted in: Comics, Heritage Sponsored, Vintage Paper | Tagged: alex toth, crime comics, Ned Pines
Discover the hidden brilliance of Who Is Next #5, a crime comic that delves into the mental health aspect of the 1950s criminal justice system.
The 1953 one-shot comic book titled Who Is Next? from Ned Pines’ Standard/Better/Nedor line delivers a unique take on crime comics. While other crime comics of the Pre-Code era aimed to emphasize support for law enforcement rather than glorifying crime, Who Is Next? presents a different perspective. It advocates for reforming the mental health aspects of the criminal justice system instead. This comic book packs a punch, comparable to the most brutal crime comics of its time. It stands out as an underappreciated gem that surpasses the typical 1950s crime comic books in sophistication, starting with Alex Toth’s compelling lead story. A highly coveted copy of Who Is Next? #5 (Standard, 1953) CGC FN+ 6.5 Off-white to white pages is currently available at the 2023 July 13 – 14 Pre-Code Horror & Crime Comics Showcase Auction #40227 held by Heritage Auctions.
Each story in Who Is Next #5 follows a similar structure: the introduction of a character grappling with mental health issues, often exacerbated by mockery and misunderstanding from those around them. The stories also shed light on environmental factors contributing to these struggles and foreshadow signs of further problems. Tragedy strikes in the form of murder in each story, highlighting how a better-equipped system for handling mental health issues could have prevented these events.
In Alex Toth’s story “The Crushed Gardenia,” a psychiatrist examines Johnny, a troubled young man with a history of violent incidents in reform school. After Johnny confesses his urges to kill, the psychiatrist recommends psychiatric treatment to the warden. However, the warden dismisses the suggestion, believing Johnny will calm down through physical labor. The psychiatrist warns that they will both regret this decision.
In “The Destroyer” by Nick Cardy, Walter, a WWII veteran, struggles with life outside the military and his responsibilities as a family man. After a destructive and violent outburst, Walter is urged by a doctor to seek psychiatric help for his previously diagnosed post-traumatic stress disorder. However, Walter refuses, leading to escalating violence, murder, and his own demise.
While acknowledging its imperfections from a modern perspective, Who Is Next? adopts a progressive approach for a 1953 comic book. The stories often reach a turning point where it is evident that the main character cannot be compelled to seek treatment despite a series of violent acts and signs of mental health struggles, resulting in greater tragedy. It prompts the question, “Who is next?” to become a victim before the country reforms how it handles mental illness in the criminal justice system. Unfortunately, similar issues persist to this day.
However, this does not mean that Who Is Next? shies away from the violence commonly found in early 1950s crime comics. What sets it apart is the portrayal of characters who foresee what is coming but are powerless to prevent it, heightening the stories’ power and tragedy.
Despite being labeled as issue #5, this is the only issue of the title. Ned Pines’ comic book line often introduced new series starting from issue #5 during this period, possibly to create the impression of an established track record. Who Is Next? stands out as a sophisticated and surprising example of Pre-Code crime. If you’re a collector, be sure to check out the copy of Who Is Next? #5 (Standard, 1953) CGC FN+ 6.5 Off-white to white pages available at the 2023 July 13 – 14 Pre-Code Horror & Crime Comics Showcase Auction #40227 by Heritage Auctions.
Denial of responsibility! SamacharCentrl is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
Basant Kasayap is an entertainment aficionado who delves into the glitz and glamour of the entertainment industry. From Hollywood to Bollywood to regional cinema, she offers readers an insider’s perspective on the world of movies, music, and pop culture.
Denial of responsibility! Samachar Central is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
