Death to Pachuco

Reviews Tegan O'Neil | September 23, 2026 What’s that? We can begin with a few words on the subject of Rachel Merrill? Don’t mind if I do! I first saw Merrill’s work on social media, which is how things work these days. She caught my eye with a set of spec movie posters, stuff like A Bout de Souffle and In the Mood for Love. Impeccable taste, but you’d expect no less. Good likenesses. Folks like Anna Karina and Jean Seberg look a very specific way. Get it wrong and we’ll know. Get it right and you’ll be showered with the love and gratitude of a grateful nation. These were strong enough pieces to push me after more, and as it turns out the next destination on my quest was Milford High - yes, the setting of venerable sports strip Gil Thorp. First of all, did you know they were still making Gil Thorp? If you do, you’ve likely seen her work. She’s been drawing it since 2024, where she took over from 80s Marvel mainstay Rod Whigham, working with writer Henry Barajas. Remember that name for a couple paragraphs hence. Merrill’s style is quite endearing. Funky in places, one might be tempted to say. She draws glamour but she can also do the demimonde. Has the feel on occasion of a woodbloc...