Hewligan's Haircut

The cover of the collected edition of Hewligan's Haircut

Hewligan's Haircut is a British comic strip that was serialized in the anthology comic magazine 2000 AD between 1990 and 1991. Created by writer Peter Milligan and artist Jamie Hewlett, the series is known for its surreal humor, inventive visuals, and the distinctive punk aesthetic that Hewlett would later bring to the virtual band Gorillaz. The story follows the adventures of its titular character, Hewligan, who, after getting a disastrous haircut, finds himself on a bizarre journey through reality, imagination, and various dimensions.

Plot

The narrative begins with Hewligan lamenting his life's monotony and seeking a change, which leads him to get a haircut. However, the haircut turns out to be anything but ordinary, as it leaves him with a bizarre, swirling pattern on his head that seems to warp reality around him. This haircut becomes the catalyst for a series of surreal and chaotic adventures that challenge the boundaries of space, time, and sanity. Alongside his companion, Scarlet O'Gasmeter, a nurse who becomes entangled in his escapades, Hewligan encounters a variety of eccentric characters and faces off against sinister forces, all while seeking a way to return his life to some semblance of normalcy.

Themes and Analysis

Hewligan's Haircut explores themes of identity, reality, and the search for meaning in a seemingly indifferent universe. The series is a satirical take on the quest for self-discovery and the desire to escape the mundane aspects of everyday life. Its narrative structure, filled with absurdity and non-sequiturs, reflects the influence of postmodern literature and the anarchic spirit of British punk culture. The comic strip also comments on the nature of mental health, as Hewligan's journey can be interpreted as an internal struggle with his own psyche.

Art and Style

Jamie Hewlett's artwork in Hewligan's Haircut is notable for its dynamic layouts, expressive characters, and detailed backgrounds that draw the reader into its surreal world. The visual style combines elements of traditional comic book art with influences from punk visual art, creating a unique aesthetic that complements the story's tone. The use of vibrant colors and imaginative designs contributes to the comic's distinctive look and feel, making it a standout work in the medium.

Legacy

Although Hewligan's Haircut was a relatively short-lived series, its impact on the medium and its creators' careers has been significant. Jamie Hewlett's work on the series showcased his talent for innovative design and storytelling, elements he would later bring to his work with Gorillaz and other projects. The comic strip has gained a cult following and is often cited as an example of the creativity and experimentation that 2000 AD has fostered in British comics. It remains a beloved piece of the magazine's history and a testament to the inventive potential of the comic book form.