Tarantino Comics - Issue 52

Some of our favorite cult films are the most controversial.  Movies such as A CLOCKWORK ORANGE or THE LAST HOUSE ON THE LEFT remain contentious for their ultraviolence.  THE EXORCIST and FREAKS continue to disgust audiences with their unnerving imagery.  But what about war films?  Sure - We love the good guys and hate the bad guys, but the tactics and methods remain divisive.  So keeping up with this hullabaloo, TARANTINO COMICS #52 may be the most notorious yet.  

Illustrated by Aaron Hazouri, this cover features Adolph Hitler:  The most hated man in history.  However, Aaron isn’t drawing the evil monster in praise.  Rather he’s making homage to one of cinema’s greatest caricatures – INGLOURIOUS BASTERDS.  “The Fury of Der Fuhrer” showcases the dictator’s response after being briefed of Aldo Raine’s latest rag-tag exploits.   

Aaron’s cartoonish style pairs well with this cinematic sequence.  His illustration shows animated movement and over-the-top expression.  Exuding from the page, we feel Adolph’s anger as he pounds and shouts “Nein, Nein, Nein!”  In many ways, Aaron’s art exemplifies the greatness that came from MAD MAGAZINE. 

I commend Aaron since he had the guts to draw Hitler at a comic book convention (MegaCon 2015).  However, he’s in good company -  If you look at the comics from the 1940’s, you’ll see images of Batman and Robin thrashing the Nazi leader on the front cover.  Although Aaron doesn’t draw a tyrant beatdown, he preserves the American spirit with brilliant mockery and parody.