film series, spanning from 1980 to 1985, represents a pivotal moment in adult cinema, transforming the genre from simple exploitation into a complex, "psychological horror adjacent" soap opera. While many associate the era with "porno chic," the Taboo tetralogy stood apart through its high production values, professional acting, and a narrative focus on deeply transgressive themes—most notably mother-son and father-daughter incest. The Genesis of Transgression (1980) The series began in 1980 with the first Taboo , directed by Kirdy Stevens and starring Kay Parker as Barbara Scott. Unlike its contemporaries, the film attempted to explore the psychological weight of social rejection and female sexual liberation. Critics have noted that at its core, the film is about a woman being rejected by society and her husband, with her subsequent "taboo" actions being underscored by intense guilt and shame. This focus on character development helped it win the inaugural Homer Award for Best Adult Tape in 1983, a milestone in the mainstream industry's recognition of adult content. Narrative Expansion: Taboo II and III The sequels, released in the early 1980s, shifted from the initial shock of the first film to a broader exploration of "illicit pasts" and family dysfunction. Taboo II & III : These entries continued the story of Barbara and her friend Joyce, contrasting their differing levels of acceptance regarding their incestuous relationships. Thematic Shift : The series began to move into a world where "bedroom hopping" and "frayed family ties" were the primary drivers of the plot, rather than just the sex scenes themselves. The Younger Generation (1985) The original cycle concluded with Taboo IV: The Younger Generation in 1985. This film served as a theatrical finale for the franchise's primary era, introducing a new family led by psychologist Dr. Jeremy Lodge. By focusing on a "psychologist who deals with clients traumatized by incest," the film added a meta-narrative layer to the series, effectively closing the loop on the psychological themes established in 1980. It also bridged the franchise's history by featuring archive footage from the first film, creating a sense of continuity for long-time viewers. Legacy and Cultural Impact The Taboo series remains a landmark because it "paved the way for an entire genre" of thematic adult storytelling. It is frequently cited as a rare example where "real acting" and a "memorable score" (which has been compared to the work in Boogie Nights ) were given as much weight as the hardcore content. While later entries in the franchise (continuing as late as 2007) moved into other taboo subjects like BDSM and LGBTQ themes, the 1979–1985 era remains the definitive period of the franchise, remembered for pushing boundaries in a way that felt like a "true artistic achievement" within its specific niche. com/film/taboo-iv-the-younger-generation/">Vinegar Syndrome have changed their critical standing? Taboo IV: The Younger Generation (1985) - Letterboxd
Taboo I (1979) : The original version of the game, released in 1979, introduced the concept of describing words without using certain keywords. Taboo II (1981) : The second version, released in 1981, built upon the success of the first game with new words and challenges. Taboo III (1983) : Released in 1983, this version further expanded the game's vocabulary and gameplay. Taboo IV (1985) : The fourth version, released in 1985, continued the series' trend of providing new and exciting challenges for players.
These versions of Taboo were all released by Milton Bradley and have since become classics in the world of party games.
Flashback to the Taboo Years! Hey music lovers! Today, we're taking a trip down memory lane to the early days of electronic and post-punk music with the iconic British band, Taboo ! Formed in 1977, Taboo was a short-lived but influential band that played a significant role in shaping the sound of the late 1970s and early 1980s. The band's music was characterized by its experimental and avant-garde style, blending elements of post-punk, electronic, and art rock. The Taboo Discography: Taboo I-II-III-IV -1979-1985-
Taboo (1979) - Their debut album, released on the legendary label, Rough Trade. The Magic Toys (1981) - Their sophomore album, showcasing the band's growth and evolution. A New Frontier (1983) - A critically acclaimed album that pushed the boundaries of electronic music. I Believe in You (1985) - Their final studio album, featuring a more refined and mature sound.
Why Taboo Matters: Taboo's music was ahead of its time, influencing a generation of musicians to come. Their experimental approach to sound and style paved the way for future electronic and alternative bands. If you're a fan of artists like Joy Division, The Cure, or Depeche Mode, you owe it to yourself to check out Taboo! Share Your Favorite Taboo Tracks! Do you have a favorite Taboo song or album? Share it with us in the comments below! Let's keep the music alive and celebrate the legacy of this groundbreaking band. #Taboo #PostPunk #ElectronicMusic #NewWave #MusicHistory #RetroMusic #CultClassic #MusicLovers #BandHistory
film series (1980–1985) is a landmark in the "Golden Age of Porn," known for blending erotic content with psychological drama and family-oriented narratives. Directed by Kirdy Stevens and written/produced by Helene Terrie , the first four entries are particularly noted for their continuity and focus on the character Barbara Scott (Kay Parker). Series Overview (1980–1985) Taboo IV: The Younger Generation (1985) - IMDb film series, spanning from 1980 to 1985, represents
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 Unlike its contemporaries, the film attempted to explore
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.