Hara‑Kiri No.150 (Mars 1974), from the legendary French satirical monthly journal bête et méchant, known for its grotesque humour, theatrical makeup and deliberately exaggerated parody of human behaviour. This issue uses a prehistoric fantasy setting to lampoon society’s fear‑mongering (and often ridiculous optimism) about the year 2000, a distant future at the time.
The cover features two actors made up as “cavemen,” complete with wild hair, body paint and faux dirt. Their posture and expressions are intentionally exaggerated, parodying human evolution myths and the idea that despite technological progress, society might not behave any more intelligently by the millennium.
Around them lies a spread of bones and meat props — more theatrical than realistic — evoking comic barbarism. Their dialogue bubbles heighten the farce:
“On est prêts !” (“We’re ready!”)
“Tu me fais mal !” (“You’re hurting me!”)
The scene is a humorous metaphor for how people imagined the leap to the year 2000: chaotic, primitive, and driven by the same impulses as ever — a recurring theme in Hara‑Kiri’s work.
Headline:BIENTÔT L’AN 2000(“Soon the year 2000”)A sarcastic jab at millennial anticipation.
Cover details:
HARA‑KIRI masthead in distressed black
No.150 – Mars 74 – 5 F – Canada 85 cts
Tagline: journal bête et méchant
Stock label: 1492
Mascot logo bottom right
Crumpled‑paper backdrop enhancing the prehistoric parody aesthetic
Collectors appreciate this issue because:
it marks the symbolic milestone No.150
millennium‑themed satire is highly sought after
strong theatrical makeup and prop‑based parody
1974 issues are especially collectible
iconic example of Hara‑Kiri’s “devolution” visual humour
Condition (from the photo):
Light wear on the upper edge
Sleeve reflections on surface
Colours warm and well‑preserved
No deep creases or tears visible
Spine appears intact with minor vintage softness
A standout mid‑70s Hara‑Kiri cover, blending millennial anxiety with prehistoric absurdity.
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