Ever wanted to know what it was like to work at a comic book shop without all the actual work, plus a dose of wackiness? Then the new web series "The Variants" may just be your cup of comic book tea.

The series follows the misadventures of comic shop owner Richard and his employees Joe, Barry, Keli and Vlad. In the tradition of "Clerks," most of them could use a little more motivation.

Although character interaction is paramount to the 8-or-so minute long shorts, I especially dig the series' more subtle jokes - like the fictional mash-up of Jim Lee and Rob Liefeld, "Jim LeeFeld," who produces the most coveted comics on the stands.Of the series thus far, episode three "The Upsell" may be the most entertaining for donning the cast in comic book costumes for a promotional day at the store. In their quest to move merchandise, each employee goes a bit overboard, inspiring jokes likely to ring true to longtime comic shoppers.

The pilot is pretty solid as well and gives viewers a pretty good idea of what they're in for. Check it out after the jump...

Are you a fan of the series? Let us know which episode is your favorite.

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