Horror films have been placing ravishing women in close proximity with hideous monsters for over one hundred years, and Serge Birault seems Hell-bent on preserving their perilous plight for time immemorial. Thankfully, his stylish renditions of devilishly distressed damsels are at once respectful of their ancient roots, and subversively modern as well.

With lovingly-distressed proportions and a knowing wink, Mr. Birault’s clever twists on classic horror and pulp themes consistently create playful pinups and portraits that drip with wit and charm. Tentacles must hold a special, clammy place in his heart, but rancid fly-men and lecherous were-squirrels also torment the lovely ladies he paints.

Mixed in with his warm appreciation of these subjects is a thin thread of macabre insanity. yet, while death and danger are never far, they are easily overshadowed by deceptively capable and unbelievably beautiful women that populate Serge’s illustrated fantasies.