Taboo: I-ii-iii-iv -1979-1985-

Visually, Taboo III shows the shift from theatrical film stock to video-look. The grain is heavier. The editing is faster. This was a concession to the quick-cut style of the early MTV generation. However, the score—a haunting piano motif—remains consistent, linking the three films into a unified auditory nightmare.

Critics at the time noted that Taboo III felt more "sleazy" than its predecessors. The first film had art aspirations; the third film was pure tragedy. This tonal shift alienated some fans but brought in a new crowd interested in the "downfall" arc.

The sequel shifts focus to Paul’s friend, Greg (Kevin James), who carries the secret of what he witnessed between Barbara and Paul. The film introduces Sherry (Dorothy LeMay), Greg’s sister, and their father. Without spoiling the tangled tree, Taboo II expands the concept into a web of repressed secrets. The famous “confession booth” scene — where a priest hears a taboo confession — became an iconic set piece. The production value increased, but critics noted the plot was thinner, relying more on the shock value of the original’s premise.

Helene Terrie takes over sole directing duties (she had co-written and co-produced previous entries). The result is a film that feels like a soap opera rather than a psychodrama. The grainy, intimate feel of the 1979 original is replaced by bright, flat lighting and excessive hairspray.

The plot follows the children of the original children. Ginger Lynn, a rising star of the 80s, plays the "new Barbara." The cycle of abuse and secrecy continues, but this time, there is a cynical twist: the characters acknowledge that they are performing a "family tradition." Taboo I-II-III-IV -1979-1985-

Taboo: A Groundbreaking Series of Erotic Comics (1979-1985)

The late 1970s and early 1980s marked a significant period in the history of adult comics with the emergence of "Taboo," a series that would push the boundaries of erotic storytelling and art. Running from 1979 to 1985, Taboo I-II-III-IV not only captured the imagination of readers but also played a pivotal role in shaping the future of adult-oriented comics. This series, a blend of fantasy, eroticism, and often humorous storytelling, left an indelible mark on the genre.

The Genesis of Taboo

The brainchild of artist Stephen Colletta and writer Steve Englehart, among others, Taboo was first introduced by Savage Dragon publisher Tom DeFalco. The series was initially conceived as a one-shot but due to its popularity, it quickly spawned a series of annuals: Taboo I (1979), Taboo II (1980), Taboo III (1982), and Taboo IV (1985). Visually, Taboo III shows the shift from theatrical

Artistic and Storyline Contributions

The success of Taboo can be attributed to the creative genius of several artists and writers who contributed to its narrative and visual appeal.

Impact on Adult Comics

Taboo's influence on adult comics cannot be overstated. It not only provided a platform for creators to experiment with more adult themes but also helped pave the way for future erotic comics. The series demonstrated that with great art and engaging storytelling, adult comics could achieve both critical acclaim and commercial success. Impact on Adult Comics Taboo's influence on adult

Key Features and Themes

Legacy

The legacy of Taboo I-II-III-IV (1979-1985) is multifaceted. For many readers, it represented a bold and daring form of entertainment. For creators, it served as an example of the potential for adult comics to be both popular and profitable. Today, issues of the Taboo series are highly sought after by collectors, and the series remains a significant part of the history of adult comics.

Conclusion

Taboo I-II-III-IV stands as a testament to the evolving nature of comics and their ability to push societal boundaries. From its inception in 1979 through its conclusion in 1985, the series challenged norms and provided a unique blend of art, storytelling, and eroticism. Its impact on the adult comic book industry continues to be felt, making Taboo a landmark series in the world of comics.

By 1985, the world had changed. AIDS was an unspoken ghost haunting the industry. The "Golden Age" was definitively over. Straight-to-video was king. Taboo IV (often subtitled The Younger Generation) attempts to reboot the franchise for a new era.