Rat-Man, the brilliant and hilarious comic created by Leo Ortolani performs 25 years (from the first publication on Panini Comics). To celebrate this important milestone Panini Comics has organized a big party, which will be held on 2th April 17.30 al B for Banca Forum Monzani di Modena. During the event, the editorial history of one of the most loved comics "heroes" in Italy will be retraced, with various surprises. There will also be various characters who have made Rat-Man a success and, of course, the pencil that has created the beloved hero and his entire universe, namely Leo Ortolani.
25 years of Rat-Man: characterization of a "clumsy" hero
"I flex my muscles and I'm in the void" (Rat-Man)
The character of Rat-Man was born in June of 1989 as a parody of the superheroes of US comics, of which Leo Ortolani is a huge fan. His name is in fact a clear reference to "Batman". In the first numbers also the alter ego of Rat-Man (Deboroh The Rock) is an orphaned billionaire who disguises himself as a superhero to fight crime. In the following years the characterization of the character then takes its own path. In fact, the settings and stories are more inspired by home comics Marvel, Such as Spiderman. As opposed to Batman or Spider-Man though, Rat-Man is neither athletic, nor muscular, nor intelligent. However, despite the various misadventures, the hero, together with his faithful teddy bear "Small”, He manages to (almost always) get out of all situations well.
Also as is often the case with comic book heroes, Rat-Man has also had its own animated series. This, composed of 52 episodes, it aired on RAI 2 twigs 2005 al 2006 (interrupted after solo 28 episodes for the mediocre response from the public).
Parody as a winning weapon
Rat-Man: "What was the last thing you read?"
Gessica Lòvebol: «Maximum capacity 4 people».
Rat-Man: «Come on! I read it too! ».
It is undeniable that theparodic element made Rat-Man a hit comic. Leo Ortolani, with his irreverent comedy, its well-characterized characters and the always intelligent and intriguing narration, has managed over the years to fascinate readers of all ages. Rat-Man's jokes are striking because always unexpected and brilliant, thanks to the unique comic style of its author. The publishing history of Rat-Man (the main one) is itself concluded in 2017, much to the sadness of the fans. However, over the course of these 25 years, the hero was featured in parody books such as Star Rats (Star Wars), 299 + 1 (300) The Rat Lord (The Lord of the Rings), Avarat (avatars), Matrix, Avengers and many others. Fortunately, Ortolani's superhero continues to be present on newsstands thanks to the reprints of his stories.
Rat-Man is a rare pearl in the Italian comics scene, a must have for all lovers of comics (superhero theme or not). In order to participate in the event of Modena and to find out more about the character and about Leo Ortolani the reservation required on the official website of the BPER Banca Forum Monzani. Admission is free and required to enter mask e greenpass. At the close of celebrations for the 25 years of Rat-Man, Leo Ortolani will thank fans by signing their copies of the comics.
Featured photo: © Leo Ortolani.
