Emphasizing complex graphics, cinematic imagery and surreal storylines, Métal Hurlant was highly influential throughout the world as one of the first mature expressions of "adult" comic book making.

Apart from comics, the original Métal Hurlant contained articles about science fiction books and movies, as well as music and videogame reviews.

Métal Hurlant was created in December 1974 by comics artists Jean Giraud (better known as Mœbius) and Philippe Druillet together with journalist-writer Jean-Pierre Dionnet and financial director Bernard Farkas.

[1] The four were collectively known as "Les Humanoïdes Associés" (United Humanoids), which became the name of the publishing house releasing Métal Hurlant.

Later issues featured Richard Corben, Alejandro Jodorowsky, Enki Bilal, Caza, Serge Clerc, Alain Voss, Berni Wrightson, Nicole Claveloux, Milo Manara, Frank Margerin, Masse, Chantal Montellier, and many others.

Featured actors include Rutger Hauer, Scott Adkins, Michael Jai White, Karl E. Landler, Joe Flanigan, David Belle, Matt Mullins and James Marsters.