Backbench (comics)

Backbench is a Canadian comic book series created by Ian Boothby and Nina Matsumoto, published by Renegade Arts Entertainment. The series is a superhero satire focused on a group of reserve superheroes, the members of the second-string superhero team, Justice Extreme.

The premise of Backbench revolves around the less-than-glamorous reality of being a superhero who isn't at the forefront of crime-fighting. Instead of battling major villains and saving the world on a grand scale, the members of Justice Extreme primarily deal with mundane problems, bureaucratic inefficiencies, and the general frustrations of being overlooked and underappreciated. The humor of the series derives from juxtaposing the expected grandeur of superheroics with the relatable struggles of everyday life.

The characters within Backbench are intentionally flawed and often more concerned with personal issues than fighting crime. This adds a layer of relatability and comedy to the superhero genre. The team roster of Justice Extreme varies throughout the series, and individual issues often focus on specific team members and their personal challenges.

The series utilizes a comedic tone and satire to explore themes such as workplace dynamics, the pursuit of recognition, and the contrast between public perception and private realities. The humor often incorporates elements of Canadian culture and politics.