Taboo I-ii-iii-iv -1979-1985-: __exclusive__
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).
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.
- Stephen Colletta brought his detailed and dynamic art style to the series, helping to define its visual identity.
- Steve Englehart, along with other writers, crafted stories that balanced on the fine line between eroticism and mainstream appeal, often incorporating elements of fantasy and humor.
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.
Key Features and Themes
- Eroticism and Fantasy: At its core, Taboo was about exploring erotic fantasies through comics. It featured a wide range of themes from straightforward erotic tales to more fantastical and surreal stories.
- Artistic Innovation: The series showcased a variety of artistic styles, contributing to its wide appeal. Artists brought their unique visions to the project, making each issue a visually distinct experience.
- Humor and Satire: Not all of Taboo's content was serious. Many stories incorporated humor, satire, and parody, making it a diverse and engaging read.
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.
The film series, spanning its most influential years from 1980 to 1985, represents a landmark era in adult cinema where narrative ambition met extreme transgression. Directed primarily by Kirdy Stevens and written by Helene Terrie, the series gained notoriety—and critical curiosity—by wrapping controversial themes within the polished aesthetic of suburban melodrama. The Evolution of the Series (1980–1985)
The first four installments defined the series' peak, moving from a focused character study to an expansive "soap opera" of broken social norms: Taboo IV: The Younger Generation (1985) - Letterboxd
The Taboo film series, released between 1980 and 1985, is a cornerstone of adult cinema’s "Golden Age," fundamentally changing the industry's approach to narrative-driven adult content. Directed primarily by Kirdy Stevens and written by Helene Terrie, the first four installments are celebrated for their attempt to blend high-concept storylines with explicit themes that were radical for their time. The Taboo Saga: 1980–1985
The series is most famous for its focus on the "taboo" of incest, specifically exploring mother-son and father-daughter dynamics within a dramatic framework. Letterboxdhttps://letterboxd.com Taboo IV: The Younger Generation (1985) - Letterboxd
The series, spanning from 1979 to 1985, is widely regarded as one of the most influential and controversial sagas in the history of adult cinema. Directed by Kirdy Stevens (a pseudonym for Stephen Masters) and starring the iconic Kay Parker, the series transitioned the genre from the "porno chic" era into a more psychologically driven narrative style. The Taboo Legacy (1979–1985) Taboo (1980)
: While production began in late 1979, the first film's release marked a turning point in the industry. It centered on a sophisticated, emotionally complex narrative involving family dynamics and forbidden desires. Kay Parker’s performance was hailed for its maturity and depth, moving away from the caricatures common in the era.
Taboo II & III (1982–1984): These sequels expanded on the "forbidden" themes, often utilizing lush cinematography and more experimental storytelling. They focused on the psychological toll and the societal boundaries of intimacy, maintaining a high production value that was rare for the time. Taboo IV (1985)
: Closing out the primary "golden age" of the series, the fourth installment solidified the franchise's reputation for blending high-concept drama with explicit content. It remained a staple of the burgeoning home video market. Cultural and Industry Impact Taboo I-II-III-IV -1979-1985-
Narrative Innovation: Unlike many of its contemporaries, the Taboo series prioritized plot and character development, often mirroring the style of mainstream soap operas or psychological dramas.
The "Kay Parker" Era: The series made Kay Parker a household name within the industry. Her "sophisticated lady" persona redefined the archetype of the adult film star during the early 80s.
Controversy and Censorship: True to its name, the series pushed the boundaries of what was acceptable on film, leading to numerous legal challenges and ensuring its place in the history of cult cinema.
Cinematic Quality: Under Kirdy Stevens' direction, the films were noted for their lighting, score, and editing, which sought to elevate the medium to a legitimate cinematic experience.
Today, the Taboo tetralogy is studied as a primary example of the Golden Age of Porn, representing a period when adult films were often shot on 35mm film with legitimate scripts and professional aspirations.
The Taboo Series: A Groundbreaking Exploration of Human Sexuality (1979-1985)
The Taboo series, a collection of four adult films released between 1979 and 1985, pushed the boundaries of cinematic expression and explored the complexities of human sexuality. Directed by G. William Miller, Joseph L. W. Yuen, and Jim Mitchell, among others, the series sparked controversy, fascination, and critical acclaim. This write-up provides an in-depth analysis of the Taboo series, its cultural significance, and the societal context in which it was created.
Taboo I (1979)
The first installment of the series, released in 1979, set the tone for the franchise. The film tells the story of a young man who engages in a romantic and erotic relationship with his sister, exploring themes of incest, desire, and family dynamics. Taboo I was notable for its explicit content, frank discussions of taboo subjects, and the use of pseudo-scientific explanations to justify the depicted acts.
Taboo II (1980)
The second installment, released in 1980, shifts its focus to bestiality, depicting a man's relationship with a series of animals. The film's use of close-ups, lingering shots, and eerie sound design created a sense of unease, making it a fascinating and unsettling watch. Taboo II sparked heated debates about the limits of on-screen content and the exploration of unconventional desires.
Taboo III (1984)
The third installment, released in 1984, explores the theme of fetishism and bondage. The film features a narrative that intertwines elements of BDSM (bondage, discipline, sadism, and masochism) with themes of power dynamics and control. Taboo III showcased the series' ability to adapt and evolve, tackling different aspects of human sexuality.
Taboo IV (1985)
The final installment, released in 1985, examines the topic of gerontophilia, depicting relationships between older men and younger partners. The film's exploration of age dynamics, power imbalances, and societal expectations sparked controversy and discussion.
Cultural Significance and Impact
The Taboo series had a significant impact on the adult film industry and popular culture. The franchise's explicit content, provocative themes, and pseudo-scientific explanations sparked conversations about human sexuality, pushing the boundaries of what was considered acceptable on screen.
The series' influence can be seen in various aspects of popular culture:
- Influence on Adult Film Industry: The Taboo series helped to shape the adult film industry, paving the way for more explicit and experimental content.
- Artistic and Cinematic Innovation: The series' use of unconventional narrative structures, close-ups, and lingering shots influenced the visual style of various films and music videos.
- Societal Commentary: The Taboo series served as a mirror to society, reflecting and challenging prevailing attitudes toward sex, relationships, and power dynamics.
Societal Context and Critique
The Taboo series was released during a time of significant social change, with the sexual revolution and the emergence of feminist and LGBTQ+ movements. The franchise's exploration of taboo subjects sparked both fascination and criticism: Taboo: A Groundbreaking Series of Erotic Comics (1979-1985)
- Censorship and Controversy: The series faced intense scrutiny, with many critics accusing the filmmakers of promoting deviant behavior and pushing the boundaries of good taste.
- Feminist Critique: Some feminist critics argued that the series objectified and exploited women, reinforcing patriarchal attitudes toward sex and relationships.
- Psychological and Sociological Analysis: Others saw the series as a reflection of societal anxieties, exploring the complexities of human desire and the blurred lines between fantasy and reality.
Conclusion
The Taboo series (1979-1985) remains a significant cultural phenomenon, representing a bold and often provocative exploration of human sexuality. While the franchise courted controversy and criticism, it also stimulated conversations about desire, power dynamics, and societal norms.
The Taboo series serves as a testament to the power of cinema to challenge, subvert, and reflect societal values. As a cultural artifact, it continues to fascinate audiences, inspiring new generations of filmmakers, artists, and scholars to explore the complexities of human experience.
The Taboo Series: A Groundbreaking Exploration of Human Sexuality (1979-1985)
The Taboo series, a collection of four adult films released between 1979 and 1985, pushed the boundaries of cinematic expression and sparked intense debates about human sexuality, morality, and censorship. Directed by G. Wilhelm Coblentz, the series consists of Taboo I, Taboo II, Taboo III, and Taboo IV, each installment delving deeper into the complexities of human desire, relationships, and the consequences of unconventional behavior.
Taboo I (1979)
The first installment of the series, Taboo I, introduced audiences to the Parsons family, consisting of parents (played by Mark Hammer and Ellen Siano) and their two sons, Jim (played by Evan Williams) and John (played by Duncan Harris). The film revolves around the themes of incest, pedophilia, and the blurring of familial boundaries. The narrative takes a dark turn as the family's repressed desires and secrets are slowly uncovered, leading to a tragic confrontation with the consequences of their actions.
Taboo II (1980)
Released in 1980, Taboo II continues the story of the Parsons family, exploring the aftermath of the events depicted in the first film. The family's dynamics have become increasingly unstable, and the sons' relationships with their parents and each other have reached a boiling point. The film tackles themes of Oedipal complexes, sibling rivalry, and the struggle for dominance within the family. As tensions escalate, the Parsons family is forced to confront the destructive nature of their desires and the devastating consequences of their actions.
Taboo III (1984)
The third installment of the series, Taboo III, takes a different approach, focusing on a group of people living in a communal setting. The film explores themes of group marriage, swinging, and alternative lifestyles. The story follows a young couple (played by Jonah Royston and Brigitte McKenney) who join a communal group, only to discover that their seemingly utopian society is built on a foundation of deceit, manipulation, and exploitation. As the couple navigates this complex web of relationships, they must confront the darker aspects of human nature and the true costs of their desires.
Taboo IV (1985)
The final installment of the Taboo series, released in 1985, shifts its focus to the world of prostitution and the sex trade. Taboo IV follows a young woman (played by Lana Clarkson) who becomes involved in a prostitution ring, only to find herself trapped in a world of exploitation and abuse. The film explores themes of objectification, power dynamics, and the commodification of the human body. As the protagonist navigates this treacherous landscape, she must confront the harsh realities of her choices and the true nature of the society that enables and exploits her.
Impact and Controversy
The Taboo series sparked intense debates about censorship, morality, and artistic freedom. Critics accused the films of promoting deviant behavior, glorifying abuse, and objectifying women. However, supporters argued that the series provided a platform for exploring complex social issues, challenging societal norms, and fostering a more nuanced understanding of human sexuality.
Throughout its run, the Taboo series faced numerous challenges, including censorship battles, protests, and calls for bans. Despite these controversies, the series gained a significant following and remains a cult classic among aficionados of adult cinema.
Legacy and Cultural Significance
The Taboo series has had a lasting impact on popular culture, influencing a range of artistic and creative endeavors. The films' exploration of complex themes, such as incest, pedophilia, and alternative lifestyles, has been cited as an inspiration by numerous artists, writers, and filmmakers.
The series' influence can be seen in works such as the films of David Lynch, who has cited the Taboo series as an inspiration for his own explorations of human nature and the surreal. Additionally, the series' themes and imagery have been referenced in music, literature, and art, cementing its place in the cultural zeitgeist.
In conclusion, the Taboo series (1979-1985) represents a groundbreaking and provocative exploration of human sexuality, pushing the boundaries of cinematic expression and challenging societal norms. While the series faced intense controversy and criticism, it has also had a lasting impact on popular culture, influencing artistic and creative endeavors to this day. Stephen Colletta brought his detailed and dynamic art
The series (released between 1980 and 1985) is a landmark franchise in adult cinema, primarily known for its high production values and controversial themes centered on familial taboos. Directed by Kirdy Stevens and starring Kay Parker, the series significantly influenced the "Golden Age" of pornographic film. Series Overview (1980–1985)
The original series consists of four primary installments, each exploring complex psychological and interpersonal dynamics: Taboo (1980)
: The foundational film introduces Barbara (Kay Parker), a woman coming to terms with her own desires and the breakdown of traditional social boundaries within her family. Taboo II (1982)
: Continues the story, often focusing on a young man who becomes entangled with his mother and sister after hearing about Barbara's affairs. Taboo III (1984)
: Further explores the repercussions of these relationships, maintaining the series' signature focus on narrative-driven adult drama. Taboo IV (1985)
: The final film in the original cycle, wrapping up the thematic exploration of forbidden intimacy that defined the early 80s adult film era. Historical and Cultural Impact
The series is frequently cited for several key contributions to the genre during that period:
Theatrical Quality: Unlike many contemporary adult films, Taboo was noted for its professional cinematography, lighting, and attempt at substantial plot development.
Mainstream Crossover: It was one of the few adult titles to receive attention in mainstream media due to its controversial "taboo" themes and the popularity of its lead, Kay Parker.
Genre Influence: The series' success led to dozens of sequels and spin-offs through the late 80s and 90s, though most lacked the original's production focus. Taboo II (1982) - IMDb
Industry Report: The "Taboo" Film Series (1979–1985)
Subject: The "Taboo" Franchise (Vol. I–IV) Era: The "Golden Age of Porn" Transition Key Creative Figures: Kirdy Stevens (Director), Helene Terrie (Writer), Kay Parker (Star)
The Plot
The film introduces us to Barbara Scott (played by the iconic Kay Parker), a wealthy, attractive, yet emotionally neglected wife in her 40s. Barbara’s husband is a traveling businessman who views her as furniture. Her teenage son, Paul (Mike Ranger), is returning from boarding school. The narrative hook is simple but devastating: Paul is lonely. Barbara is lonely. After a series of co-dependent accidents (a torn dress, a therapeutic bath), they cross a line that cannot be uncrossed.
Technical Evolution
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.
Controversy and Box Office
Taboo was banned in several jurisdictions. Feminist groups of the era criticized it for "normalizing abuse of trust," while moral conservatives called it "a blueprint for degeneracy." Despite (or because of) this, it became the highest-grossing adult film of 1979-1980. It established that taboo subject matter was not a niche—it was a blockbuster engine.
Part II: The Uncomfortable Sequel – Taboo II (1982)
Sequels in the adult world are notoriously cynical. Usually, they are just reused sets and body doubles. Taboo II (1982) broke the mold by refusing to repeat the original. Instead, it asked a darker question: What happens after the shame?
Taboo III (1984): The Psychological Twist
By the time the third installment rolled around, the "video revolution" was in full swing. Theaters were closing, and VCRs were entering living rooms. Taboo III had to work harder to grab attention.
Kay Parker returns, but the story takes a psychological turn. It explores the lingering effects of the original relationship. Her character, Barbara, is now trying to navigate a new life while being pulled back into the complex web of her past. The film leans heavily into the "nun" aesthetic—a stark contrast to the lonely widow of the first film—creating a visual tension between purity and past sins. It is arguably the darkest and most melodramatic of the original run.
