The famous solitary cowboy returns on a new adventure with the album A cowboy under pressurereleased this Friday. This new story, written by Jul and drawn by Achdé, explores fascinating historical themes: immigration and industrial growth in the heart of the Far West. In a context where the United States is becoming a welcoming land for thousands of European migrants, Lucky Luke finds himself confronted with both personal and societal challenges.
With its characteristic humor and historical nods, the comic pays homage to the time when the great ideals of the American dream were taking shape. The authors immerse us in a story which, beneath its light appearance, raises ever-present questions about identity and integration.
An unexpected character: Donald Trump's grandfather enters the scene
Among the surprises of this album, the appearance of Donald Trump's grandfather, Friedrich Trump, a Bavarian immigrant who actually emigrated to the United States at the end of the 19th century. This historical figure brings a unique dimension to the universe of Lucky Luke. Portrayed as an enterprising young man, he embodies the typical immigrant seeking to build a new life in an unfamiliar world.
The idea of integrating an ancestor of Donald Trump into the story, although surprising, fits perfectly into the tradition of the series. Lucky Luke has always used humor and historical references to draw parallels between the past and the present. Friedrich Trump, with his Bavarian accent and his dreams of grandeur, adds to a gallery of characters who make us smile while inviting us to think.
This bold choice by the authors is already sparking debate. Some see it as a subtle critique of the capitalist ambitions of the time, while others applaud the authors' ability to surprise and update a classic.
Diving into the beer industry: a unique setting for Lucky Luke
In A cowboy under pressureLucky Luke trades the vast desert plains for the bustling breweries of the Wild West. The brewing industry, the cornerstone of this new intrigue, becomes the scene of the hero's adventures. At a time when beer was more than just a beverage, but a true economic and cultural pillar, this album highlights an often overlooked facet of American history.
The sets are full of details, from the gigantic vats to the workers at work, highlighting the importance of this emerging industry. For Lucky Luke, accustomed to more hostile environments, this immersion in the industrial world represents a new kind of challenge. In a setting where machines, unions and the ambitions of entrepreneurs create tensions, he will have to both restore justice and navigate a world in complete upheaval.
The authors use this unique setting to ask relevant questions about modernization and the conflicts it generates. Between exploitation of workers and the quest for profit, the story reminds us that certain issues of the Wild West still find an echo in our contemporary society.
A contemporary social critique through the prism of humor
Under his light airs, A cowboy under pressure is not content to be a simple adventure story. Implicitly, the album addresses universal themes: the challenges of immigration, the impact of uncontrolled capitalism, and dreams shattered by the frantic quest for success. The appearance of Friedrich Trump, an ambitious young Bavarian immigrant, perfectly illustrates these questions. His attempt to build a brewing empire reflects not only the aspirations of an era, but also the contradictions of the American ideal.
The album's omnipresent humor makes these reflections accessible to everyone. The incisive dialogues, burlesque situations, and nods to modern realities allow readers to have fun while taking a step back. A particularly striking scene parallels the modest beginnings of Friedrich Trump and the excesses that we associate with his descendants, a satire that will not escape anyone.
The critical reception is also very favorable. Readers welcome the way in which Jul and Achdé modernize the universe of Lucky Luke while remaining faithful to the original spirit of Morris. With A cowboy under pressurethe lone cowboy shows that he can still surprise and entertain while offering a relevant reflection on our world.
Summary in 5 points:
- Lucky Luke returns in a new album, exploring immigration and the industrialization of the Far West.
- The beer industry provides the backdrop for adventures that are as hilarious as they are rich in historical detail.
- The appearance of Friedrich Trump, grandfather of Donald Trump, adds an unexpected touch to the story.
- The scenario combines humor, social criticism, and homage to the major themes of American history.
- Authors Jul and Achdé continue to reinvent Lucky Luke while remaining faithful to the spirit of the series.
