P is for …Phantom

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The Phantom has been around a long time. He was invented for comics by Lee Falk in 1936 and he's found his way onto the small and big screen since. Of course, I didn't know that when I saw Billy Zane's performance in 1996. What I did know was that I loved it. Not everyone does, of course. Even I'll admit that those purple pajamas are a little ridiculous.

I also didn't know that The Phantom was the first superheroic character to wear a skintight action outfit like that. He was also the first to use the mask that disguised even his eyes. He didn't have any superpowers beyond knowledge and training. Much like Batman, he was a detective first and foremost.

In 1996, I wasn't the pulp enthusiast I am now becoming, though I had enjoyed several stories of that sort. I'm not sure I even knew the term for it. I guess I've always been drawn to stories that intermix fantastical and more realistic elements, humor and drama, action and philosophy. After seeing this film, I began to seek out more of these kinds of stories. So, my thanks to Mr. Falk for creating such an inspiring and intriguing character. He brought me one of the great joys of my life.
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This post is part of the A to Z Blogging Challenge. I'll be writing about superheroes I love all month. You can check out other bloggers and see their creative takes on the challenge here.

Don't forget to check out my own superhero stories: