Jokes aside, the decision to let the characters have opinions like this is probably one of the better writing choices Wagner makes in Sandman Mystery Theater. Does a lot to humanize the characters. Show that they’re actually conscious of their surroundings rather than basic products of their culture. (Though I do imagine the then-forward thinking nature of the protagonists is just as much informed by the writer having literal decades of hindsight.)

For context as to why I’m praising this mundane aspect so highly, it’s a comic called “Sandman Mystery Theater” that’s not a mystery comic. As of what I’ve read, there’s only ever one actual suspect. You’re given the culprit’s pov anyway. More focus is placed on the titular crime fighter literally fighting the crime than deduction (so it’s not even a Columbo ordeal). It kinda needs all the strong decisions in other areas to justify the fact that it doesn’t deliver the thing it literally advertises on the title.

Also, half the reason I’m reading it to see Guy Davis’s art. He did not do the above image. Cannot understate how Davis’s linework, paneling, framing and horror sensibilities elevate the experience.

Edit: this was taken from issue #9.