Source Material #402 - The Butcher of Paris (Dark Horse, 2019)

In this gripping episode of Source Material Comics Podcast, Jesse Starcher and Mark Radulich dive deep into Dark Horse Comics’ The Butcher of Paris—a chilling five-issue true crime miniseries by Stephanie Phillips. Set in Nazi-occupied France, the comic uncovers the terrifying true story of Dr. Marcel Petiot, a man who preyed upon the desperation of Jewish refugees by promising them escape—only to murder them for profit. What unfolds is a noir-tinged tale of horror, betrayal, and moral collapse in the face of war.Jesse and Mark examine how The Butcher of Paris uses real historical events to tell a story both harrowing and eerily relevant. As Paris crumbles under occupation, Detective Massu finds himself not only chasing a monster hiding behind patriotism, but also contending with the Gestapo, corrupt collaborators, and a public that seems more entertained than outraged. With Phillips’ layered writing and Dean Kotz’s striking—if not tonally mismatched—artwork, this comic blends investigative tension with haunting social commentary on complicity, survival, and post-war justice. The episode also ventures into how generational trauma, political manipulation, and antisemitism linger both in the past and present. Mark draws poignant connections to the broader historical impact of World War II, while Jesse contextualizes the grim details of the case and Phillips' own motivation for adapting it. Whether you're a fan of true crime, historical thrillers, or morally complex storytelling, this conversation highlights why The Butcher of Paris deserves your attention—and maybe even a Netflix adaptation.