Wonder Woman on DVD
Two days before Watchmen hits the cinema, DC’s best loved heroine hits the small screen. Wonder Woman, the new animated film from Warner Bros. and DC Comics, after their excellent Superman/Doomsday and Justice League: The New Frontier animated films, arrives into man’s world on March 3. Keri Russel (MI: 3) stars as WW herself, with Nathan Fillion (Serenity) as pilot Steve Trevor and Virginia Madsen (Firewall) as Hippolyta, WW’s mother. It looks like a faithful set up for the Amazon princess and has some great features, such as a sneak peek at DC’s next animated film, Green Lantern: First Flight. Below is the official trailer and a clip of two Amazonians in some gladiator action.
It had a spectacular reaction at WonderCon this week and looks like making new fans when it hits DVD and Blu-Ray on March 3.
Impaler #2 Review
Top Cow has done it again. Picking their projects wisely they appear determined to create books that are distinctive in a spandex-driven market. Impaler is their latest high concept book, to use Hollywood slang. The set up is this: blizzard in New York, adrift freighter discovered with dead crew, vampires descend upon the city, cop teams up with ageless vamp killer Vlad Tempes, military struggles to keep up. Thankfully the Cow throw a handy guide in their titles these days, so this is a good place to jump in as any, in case you missed the first issue. This ish begins with two archaeologists arguing over the find of a corpse in a Moroccan dig site, while the object of their discussion seems to stir.
Three weeks later we discover how really desperate the U.S military are. With the vamps gaining ground with alarming speed soldiers are ordered to take them down at any means, even at the cost of civilian lives. This is a movie waiting to be made. Less of a vampire film than a disaster one, if made, it could easily sit next to Cloverfield or I Am Legend or 28 Days Later. There is a feeling of desperation running throughout the issue, but it isn’t swamped by it. This disaster very much has a human face amongst the devilish horde. Vlad perhaps unwisely, gives his new partner, Detective Victor Dailey, a second chance at life, after receiving radiation poisoning, and Lieutenant George Wagner has a conflict of interest when faced with the insurmountable odds. Finishing off with a scene that ties in to the awakening corpse of the intro, things look unsurprisingly bleaker for our band of heroes in the future issues.
Writer William Harms and artist Matt Timson are on a winner here. It’s obvious they understand one another and are building something eerily incredible. Harms knows when to let Timson unleash his blood soaked art upon us, and when to quiet things down (slightly) although every page is brimming with sweaty intensity, as well as very impressive art.
The vampire creatures are a great work of design. Not resembling the typical neck biters from pop culture, Timson gives the ghouls more of a zombie feel, with a touch of Venom thrown in for good measure. Their blank eyes, shadow like tendrils and scorched skin make for a creepy visual combo. Timson is skilled in every area of art that the comic book page requires. The subtle earthen colours of the opener to the surveillance footage shown to the military to Dailey’s hallucinations that are suitably ethereal. He shows he has the mad skills needed for this mad tale. With Stjepan Sejic and now Matt Timson, Top Cow should give their talent scouts a hearty pat on the back.
Be aware that Impaler wisely carries a Mature Audience stamp for graphic content and profanity and blood are both plentiful. It is a gritty, harsh adventure and one that has me hooked.
For a preview of this ish, go here.
The Gallery-X-Force/Cable: Messiah War Prologue
X-Force and Cable are the two bad boys of the X-Men flood of books as of late. Now they’re teaming up as part of the Messiah War cross-over, which is the sequel to Messiah CompleX. The first new mutant birth since the house of M (whereby the mad Scarlet Witch’s “No more mutants” dream became a reality) things have been crazy. Cable’s stuck in the future, Bishop’s tracking him down and Cyclops is attempting to protect the future of the mutant race from those that want her for their own ends. So the X-Men’s leader orders something drastic and sends X-Force on a time-travelling adventure after Cable and the youngen.
The prologue is written by Christopher Yost and Craig Kyle with art by Mike Choi and goes on sale on March 25. Then it’s onto Part 2 in Cable #13 on sale on April 1, followed by Part 3 in April 22′s X-Force #14 by Yost, Kyle and artist Clayton Crain. At the link below, there’s a few text-free preview pages of the Prologue. They look gorgeous.
Street Fighter IV #1 Review
Street Fighter is a hot commodity these days. The venerable fighting franchise has always been bigger than it’s roots as a much loved video game for button mashing Gen Xers, but 2009 will surely create new fans. Street Fighter IV was recently released on next-gen consoles as the first in the series since 1999, and has been lapped up by players across the globe, mainly due to it’s new characters, amazing graphics, and old school 2D battle plane. With the cinematic release of Street Fighter: The Legend of Chun-Li starring Smallville’s Kristin Kreuk as the titular high kicking heroine, things are looking up. Of course, SF fans have had plenty of comics to read over the years, especially the faithful output of Udon Studios, who have been creating SF comics since 2003.
Their latest series, Street Fighter IV is a four issue mini-series that expands upon the new game. Produced by mainstay creators, writer Ken Siu-Chong and artist Joe Ng, the first issue centres on Crimson Viper. She is one of the four new fighters in the game, and along with the others Rufus, El Fuerte and Abel, will be the stars of the series, as they interact with more familiar Fighters. It begins with a clandestine meeting between the red-headed assassin Viper and a man known as Vincent representing the Shadaloo Intimidation Network, hoping to recruit her for a secret mission. After some cheap theatrics, she accepts and reports to her unknown boss. We then meet Abel in London as he breaks up a gun running operation with some fancy flipping and throwing, allowing him to draw closer to S.I.N and the mysterious man behind it, Vincent. During his down time the French fighter reflects upon his past as a Jason Bourne-like amnesiac with intense training and mad fighting skills. In the last few pages, Viper uses her hi-tech gadgets to break in to a German company to steal some data, busting a few heads on her way out to report to Vincent’s superior – an imposing classic character known as Fifteen, who resembles a blue robot. Fifteen charges Viper with more targets to take down.
This issue is exactly what we’ve come to expect from Udon’s Street Fighter work. It looks fantastic, with great costume design, great page layouts and hectic fight scenes. It really does have the feel of a non-stop action film. The story is somewhat simple, with no real surprises, but for SF fans this will be just what they’re after. Viper’s hi-tech moves and gadgets are something that I’ve never seen in a Fighter before and is a nice touch and Abel’s two page self-narrated flashback is rather awkward, but it does shed some light on his past. Udon’s comics are always full of cameos and faithful interpretations with manga-infused eye candy. If you’re a fan of the franchise, who isn’t reading this series, you need to change that, and start experiencing the adventures of the Fighters off the screen. Hard core comic readers who want depth and intensity won’t find that here, but readers new to comics will find it easy to warm to this series.
Web Swinging & Singing
This has been in the works for a while now, due in no small part to the mega-success of the films of Marvel’s most famous character. Fanboys are already up in arms about what they see as a travesty, but I think it’s a good idea. What is that idea? Spider-Man on Broadway. It’s happening. Tickets go on sale in June. It sounds like a more faithful adaptation than the dodgy Superman musical from three decades ago, and it has some stellar talent involved, namely half of U2! If I was a U.S resident, my curiosity would drive me to see it for myself. It’s a bold move and will hopefully bring in new fans to the comic book medium, or at least get fanboys out of the house – as long as they don’t picket the theatre. I can hear it now – “Spidey’s a swinger, not a singer!” Press release below.
Webheads, get ready to experience the exploits of your friendly neighborhood Spider-Man in an entirely new, exciting way when “Spider-Man, Turn Off the Dark” opens on Broadway!
Mark your calendars now, thwippers, “Spider-Man, Turn Off the Dark” opens on Thursday, February 18, 2010 at Broadway’s Hilton Theatre, 213 West 42nd Street. And some lucky Broadway goers will get to see the show when preview performances begin Saturday, January 16, 2010.
Stay tuned to Marvel.com to find out about your chance to purchase tickets to “Spider-Man, Turn Off the Dark” before they go on sale to the general public!
Of course a show starring Spider-Man deserves all-star talent and “Turn Off the Dark” has it in spades! Tony® Award-winner Julie Taymor (“The Lion King,” “Across The Universe”) is not only directing the musical, but she shares writing credits with Glen Berger. Oh, but there’s more! Bono and The Edge, 22-time Grammy® Award-winning members of the legendary band U2 are creating new music and lyrics for the show!
The principal creative and design team for “Spider-Man, Turn Off the Dark” includes Daniel Ezralow, Choreographer (“Across the Universe,” “The Green Bird”); George Tsypin, Sets (“The Magic Flute,” “The Little Mermaid”); Eiko Ishioka, Costumes (Academy Award® for “Bram Stoker’s Dracula,” Tony Award® nomination for “M. Butterfly,” the opening ceremonies for the Beijing Olympics); Donald Holder, Lighting (Tony® Awards for “The Lion King,” “South Pacific”); Jonathan Deans, Sound (“Fosse,” The Beatles “LOVE” by Cirque du Soleil, “Young Frankenstein,” “Ragtime”); and Teese Gohl, Musical Supervisor (“Across the Universe,” “Frida”). Additional members of the “Spider-Man” creative team will be announced at a later date.
Drawing from over 40 years of Marvel comic books for inspiration, “Spider-Man, Turn Off the Dark” spins a new take on the mythic tale of a young man propelled from a modest rowhouse in Queens to the sky-scraping spire of the Chrysler Building, the bustling offices of the Daily Bugle, through the dizzying canyons of Manhattan, to new vistas never before seen.
The musical follows the story of teenager Peter Parker, whose unremarkable life is turned upside-down-literally-when he’s bitten by a genetically altered spider and wakes up the next morning clinging to his bedroom ceiling. This bullied science-geek-suddenly endowed with astonishing powers-soon learns, however, that with great power comes great responsibility as villains test not only his physical strength but also his strength of character.
Spider-Man’s battles will hurtle the audience through an origin story both recognizable and unexpected-yielding new characters as well as familiar faces-until a final surprising confrontation casts a startling new light on this hero’s journey.
Casting for “Spider-Man” will be announced soon.
Group tickets now on sale. Single tickets will go on sale June, 2009. For more information about group tickets, visit the “Spider-Man” website at www.SpidermanOnBroadway.com or by calling 1-800-Broadway.
Liefeld, Obama & Youngblood Team-Up
Now I know writer/artist Rob Liefeld can be a controversial figure, but I’ve never really figured out why. I mean, his legacy can’t be ignored. He co-created Deadpool and Cable and helped build (along with his fellow Image founders) an exciting way of looking at comics as a mass media form of entertainment, and the building blocks of a larger media empire. Of course, Spawn creator Todd McFarlane is the leading light in that regard, but Liefeld’s output, though irregular, always garners attention. Now he returns to his signature creation, with the most popular man in comics today – the new U.S President himself. Official press release below.
THE NEW ERA OF YOUNGBLOOD BEGINS TOMORROW COURTESY OF SERIES CREATOR ROB LIEFELD AND PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA! The future of Youngblood starts now as Rob Liefeld returns! The bold new era of YOUNGBLOOD begins tomorrow as series creator Rob Liefeld takes the reins and reveals President Barack Obama’s shocking lineup of the long-running superhero team! “Since YOUNGBLOOD’s very first issue back in 1992, the series has always had a real world, political connection by taking on such issues as the first Iraq war and really exploring just what it would mean to be a government sanctioned superteam,” Liefeld said. “Bringing Obama into the picture is a necessary extension of YOUNGBLOOD’s history and I couldn’t imagine a better way to start my full-time return to the series.”
YOUNGBLOOD began the Image revolution in early 1992 and was the first creator-owned comic book to sell over a million copies right out of the gate by bringing a whole new perspective to what superhero comics were capable of. Rob’s creations took the medium by storm by influencing an entire generation of creators and, most recently, Brett Ratner as the famed director behind such blockbuster films as Rush Hour and X3 announced he will be taking the property to new heights by kick-starting the YOUNGBLOOD film franchise. Tomorrow’s issue not only features a six-page back up story setting up Rob Liefeld’s full-time return to the series with May’s YOUNGBLOOD #9, but also an already much coveted variant cover featuring our nation’s 44th President.
YOUNGBLOOD #8, a 32-page full color comic book for $2.99, will be in-stores tomorrow.
Celebrate Good Times…Come On
Not that I feel like bragging, but here goes…We’ve just hit over 1000 document views of our first issue, which you can see for yourself right here. We’re also climbing towards 21 000 page views.
That’s great news, so thank you to all the readers and those that have been mentioning it on-line. And of course, thanks to my creative partner in crime, Dave. We’re currently hard at work on our second issue, while still managing to maintain some semblance of a normal, geeky life.
Issue 2 is out on March 15, if all goes well, and we’re going for a slightly different look this time around, with a new logo and general messing around even more with page design. It’ll be filled with some great preview art, as well as interviews with some big shots (Zeb Wells, Tom DeFalco) and some newbies to the comics industry, as well as nifty reviews and articles. Stay tuned and thanks for supporting us with a virtual pat on the back. It’s very much appreciated.
Irredeemable Trailer
Official press release below about writer Mark Waid’s (Kingdom Come) latest project with BOOM! Studios. Click the link at the end for a 7 page preview too.
BOOM! Studios is proud to premiere the trailer to IRREDEEMABLE, Mark Waid’s hotly anticipated new ongoing superhero series that debuts this April.
The trailer for IRREDEEMABLE can be found on YouTube right now and was cut by Craig Kennedy at CK Creative. You can see the trailer here, or below.
Adding to the excitement of this premiere, BOOM Studios is also offering a sneak preview of the first 7 pages of IRREDEEMABLE #1, stoking the fires on what will be the direct market event of the year.
“Here is potentially the biggest independent title of this year,” said retailer Ed Greenberg of Collector’s Paradise in Winnetka, California. “This will be the BOYS of this year, on a much more serious level. This will be the WANTED of this year, and the KICK-ASS and the PAX ROMANA of this year.”
Mark Waid’s IRREDEEMABLE launches this April and will feature variant covers by John Cassaday (ASTONISHING X-MEN, PLANETARY) and Barry Kitson (AMAZING SPIDER-MAN) in a 75/25 split with a 1-in-50 incentive cover signed by Mark Waid. IRREDEEMABLE sports interior art is by Peter Krause, who is best known for his run on POWER OF SHAZAM. Issue #1 will also feature a special afterword by Grant Morrison. IRREDEEMABLE is currently available for pre-order from the Diamond Previews Catalog with an order code of FEB094134.
“In superhero comics, pretty much everyone who’s called upon to put on a cape is, at heart, emotionally equipped for the job. I reject that premise,” said series writer and BOOM! Studios Editor-in-Chief Mark Waid. “IRREDEEMABLE is, in a way, my third and most complex chapter on the cost of superheroics – a pulp adventure tale of horror exploring how the lessons we learn about right and wrong as children can become warped and twisted when challenged by the realities of the adult world.”
Remake Preview
AdHouse Books is a great publisher that not enough people are aware of. One of their latest books appears to be another in their diverse array of unusual tales.
Remake, by newbie creator Lemar Abrams is a 144 page black and white Original Graphic Novel centering on Max Guy, a bread pudding lover and robotic action hero. Wearing its Manga influences proudly the book is available to order from your local comic shop and is released in May.
You can see a preview below, or on May 2′s Free Comic Book Day. There’s also more artwork and an interview with Abrams right here.
Get To Know Your DC Faves
Now that Final Crisis has wrapped, DC Comics’ next epic is Blackest Night which centres on the ever growing universe of characters, and alien races, and different coloured power rings, that writer Geoff Johns has been creating over the last few years. Green Lantern ain’t the only powerful hue in the DC Universe these days. Lately, DC has been running brief back-up tales in some of their select titles this month, with tie-ins to Blackest Night. These handy short stories also give summarised origins of certain characters. For a full list of these Origins & Omens titles, see below, or go here to see them all for yourself.
Mark Waid’s Podcasts
Official press release below from BOOM! Studios latest initiative centering on their EIC, industry legend Mark Waid and his helpful and revealing new podcasts.
BOOM! Studios today launched the weekly “15 Minutes with Waid” podcast, where you will be able to get your weekly dose of Mark Waid ruminating on the hot topics of today’s comic industry and talking about the latest creative endeavors of the inimitable Mark Waid.
Called “15 Minutes with Waid,” the podcast wil be limited to 15 minutes and is hosted at the newly launched MARKWAID.COM, which premiered last month.
BOOM! Studios Editor-In Chief Mark Waid, award-winning writer of such series as KINGDOM COME, EMPIRE, 52, and AMAZING-SPIDER MAN and a longtime industry veteran, hits the keyboard to blog regularly at MARKWAID.COM about his years of experience in the field. Updated daily with new content, MARKWAID.COM features free webcomics, podcasts, vlogs, script tutorials, rants, and special guests on a regular basis.
Waid’s new series, IRREDEEMABLE, launches this April and will feature variant covers by John Cassaday (ASTONISHING X-MEN, PLANETARY) and Barry Kitson (AMAZING SPIDER-MAN) in a 75/25 split and a special afterword by Grant Morrison. It is currently available for pre-order from the Diamond Previews Catalog with an order code of FEB094134.
“In superhero comics, pretty much everyone who’s called upon to put on a cape is, at heart, emotionally equipped for the job. I reject that premise,” said series writer and BOOM! Studios Editor-in-Chief Mark Waid. “IRREDEEMABLE is, in a way, my third and most complex chapter on the cost of superheroics – a pulp adventure tale of horror exploring how the lessons we learn about right and wrong as children can become warped and twisted when challenged by the realities of the adult world.”
Mr. Stuffins Returns
Now I’ve never heard of this series about the secret agent teddy bear, but apparently his debut two years ago was quite popular. Now he’s back in a 3 ish mini, starting in April. Official press release below.
MR. STUFFINS IS BACK!
MY TEDDY BEAR’S A SECRET AGENT!
With covers by MOUSE GUARD’S David Peterson
Mr. Stuffins returns featuring covers by MOUSE GUARD”s David Peterson! Written by EUREKA creator Andrew Cosby and EUREKA staff writer Johanna Stokes, MR. STUFFINS is a tale of intrigue and suspense, and all before bedtime! For fans of TOY STORY and BURN NOTICE, MR. STUFFINS will have you wondering if your toy’s kung fu grip is for real!
David Petersen of MOUSE GUARD acclaim will be supplying all the A covers for the entire three issue run. MR. STUFFINS #1 will be shipping this April.
MR. STUFFINS follows the saga of a talking teddy bear that has been accidentally implanted with a chip, granting him the skills of the deadliest secret agents and mercenaries on the planet! Mr. Stuffins has to protect his new owner, Zachary, as evil forces hunt Mr. Stuffins down to steal his powers. Can this super-secret teddy bear save the day?
The original first issue of MR. STUFFINS shipped nearly two years ago, in April of 2007. All over the country, the original sold out at convention after convention as fans asked the question, “When will issue #2 come out?” Unfortunately, a second issue didn’t follow. “It’s totally my fault, I’ll take the blame,” said BOOM! co-founder Ross Richie. “That year BOOM! really started to boom, and we grew out of control. Thankfully, Mark Waid came in as Editor-in-Chief in 2008 and helped us correct problems like this and get an infrastructure.” Now the bear is back in a completely re-drawn and re-colored first issue with all new art from Axel Medellin, on-time and on-schedule!
The first B cover features a re-colored version of the Joe Abraham original. The B covers for issues 2 and 3 are by Matt Cossin, who worked on METAL HURLANT.
“I’m thrilled to return to the story of MR. STUFFINS,” said MR. STUFFINS co-writer Andrew Cosby. “One of the reasons why EUREKA is so successful is due to its ability to blend the absurd with the realistic, turning the campy into a vehicle for entertainment and, if there’s time, maybe a serious message or two. MR. STUFFINS also scratches that itch!”
MR. STUFFINS #1 (New Edition) features two variant covers in a 50/50 split by David Petersen, Joe Abraham with a Diamond Order Code of FEB094133 and ships this April.
Another New Marvel Toon
Hot on the heels of the upcoming Marvel Super Hero Squad cartoon, comes news of another new toon. However this one will be web-only at www.marvel.com. Check out the press release below.
Introducing “Marvel Super Heroes: What The–?!”-an all-new, all-original video series from Marvel.com.
Conceived in the tradition of comic book satires done in the mighty Marvel manner-including NOT BRAND ECHH and, of course, WHAT THE–?!-the first episode launches on Marvel.com (www.marvel.com) in early spring.
Wish the series was here already? Then check out the teaser trailer below right now and watch what happens when a hapless A.I.M. agent messes with M.O.D.O.K.’s scene! ‘Nuff said!
IDW’s PDFs
I interviewed Eric Reichert for our first issue, regarding Eagle One Media’s new Street Fighter animated comics. Now, IDW is wisely getting in on the action and making some of their impressive titles available as downloadable PDFs through the company. Official press release below.
IDW Publishing, known for its wide array of comic books and graphic novels, has partnered with Eagle One Media to start a comprehensive backlist on the Web. Featuring a range of books from the Eisner-nominated artist and co-creator of 30 Days of Night, Ben Templesmith, to the Presidential Material: Barack Obama and McCain comics, to work by acclaimed artist Ashley Wood, each title will be available for download as a PDF for a minimal $1.99 fee.
Eagle One Media’s President, Eric Reichert, is excited about this new relationship. “Being able to work in partnership with IDW to make a significant number of their comics available for download to fans worldwide is a great opportunity for us. We’ve simplified the process so that comic fans can easily and quickly download complete PDF-style issues to their computer. They can also print the issues and save them to more than one computer if needed.
“Plus, with a sales price below the printed books, we give fans the opportunity to discover and try out comics which they may not have had access to in the past, in an innovative format. IDW joins our growing list of publishers who have made their comics and graphic novels available in our retail download store at: www.eagleonemedia.com.”
Chris Ryall, IDW’s Publisher/Editor-in-Chief, added “I love seeing our comics expand into areas that allow readers to sample books that are new or unfamiliar to them. Eagle One’s formatting is clean, quick, and easy for anyone who wants to read comics on their computer, and when you consider that you can download an entire issue of the 72-page Doomed magazine for $2, a great value, too.”
This pairing ushers in a brand-new platform for fans to enjoy IDW’s extensive backlist, with titles to appeal to a wide array of fans. Currently available for download are Blood-Stained Sword, Cobb, CVO, D’Airain Aventure, Doomed, Everybody’s Dead, Grumpy Old Monsters, Igor, Lore, Lost & Found, Pirat Tales, Presidential Material, ShadowPlay, Singularity 7, Snaked, and Zombies!: Feast. This already impressive backlist will be frequently updated at Eagleonemedia.com.
The Gallery-Dark Reign: Elektra #1
On sale on March 25 is the first issue of Dark Reign: Elektra, a new 5 issue mini-series from writer Zeb Wells and penciller Clay Mann. The story centres on the red clad ninja assassin, and former flame of Daredevil, in her quest for answers, after a rather busy period in her life including “death,” captivity and now freedom.
She wants answers and ain’t happy! The series follows on from the events of New Avengers #31, in which Elektra was seemingly killed and revealed to be a shape shifting Skrull alien.
At the link below you can view some text-free preview pages of the first issue from Marvel Comics.
New Marvel Cartoon
You’ve seen the cutsey toys. Now you can watch the cartoon. Official press release below.
Get ready to “Hero up!” with “Marvel Super Hero Squad!”
The all-new “Marvel Super Hero Squad” animated series debuts on the Cartoon Network in late 2009 with a slate of 26 episodes scheduled to run. “Marvel Super Hero Squad” is an action-packed show featuring super-stylized versions of its most popular characters including Captain America, Silver Surfer, Hulk, Wolverine and Iron Man.
“We are thrilled to have Cartoon Network as the U.S home for the show and appreciate the hard work everyone at the network has put into making this deal come to fruition,” said Eric Rollman, Marvel’s President of Animation commented. “Marvel Super Hero Squad represents many firsts for Marvel in that it’s our first Marvel Universe show inclusive of characters from across the many worlds of Marvel and our first action series with a humorous twist. The commitment both Marvel and Cartoon Network have made to this show should establish it as an evergreen fixture for both companies for many years to come.”
So what’s it all about, True Believers? When the greatest heroes on the planet unite to face the world’s greatest villains, you get the biggest, most family-friendly Super Hero team-up in TV history…Marvel Super Hero Squad. It’s no small job protecting Super Hero City from VillainVille’s infamous criminals…But Iron Man, Wolverine, the Hulk, the Silver Surfer, Thor and the Falcon are always up for the job.
Shouting “Hero Up!” as they rush into battle, the Squad must keep Dr. Doom’s allies from gathering pieces of the Infinity Sword. Otherwise, Doom will use the Sword to rule the universe! Luckily, the City is filled with Marvel Super Hero guest-stars to help out in a pinch. These brave heroes totally deliver the action-but with plenty of humor on the side.
Superstar voice talents slated to play the roles of the dynamic heroes and villans of include: Tom Kenny (“Spongebob”), Charlie Adler (“Transformers 1 & 2″), Steve Blum (“Wolverine and the X-Men,” “Hulk Vs.”) and Grey DeLisle (“Fairly Oddparents” and “The Replacements”).
Not enough for you? How about some gigantic guest-star voices including: Wayne Knight (“Seinfeld”), LeVar Burton (“Reading Rainbow,” “Star Trek: The Next Generation”), Michelle Trachtenberg (“Gossip Girl,” “17 Again,” “Buffy”), Greg Grunberg (“Heroes”), Lena Headey (“Terminator: Sarah Connor Chronicles,” “300″), Adrian Pasdar (“Heroes”), Tricia Helfer (“Battlestar Galatica”), Jennifer Morrison (“House”), Tamera Mowry (“Twitches,” “Sister, Sister”), Robert Englund (“A Nightmare on Elm Street” films) and Stan Lee as the Mayor of Super Hero City.
I Watched Watchmen – Now What?
ow this is a good idea DC! A hearty pat on the back from me to you. Watchmen opens next month in cinemas everywhere, but it’s really only fanboys that know, and revere, the classic 12 issue series from Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons. Many cinema goers won’t necessarily have any idea of the film’s roots as a classic revolutionary epic. Official press release below regrading a wise incentive that will hopefully change that.
DC COMICS ANNOUNCES “AFTER WATCHMEN, WHAT’S NEXT?” PROGRAM
The excitement surrounding the upcoming WATCHMEN feature film has brought new readers to the graphic novel format. Now that they’ve read WATCHMEN, where do they go next? Help point them in the right direction with DC Comics’ “AFTER WATCHMEN, WHAT’S NEXT?” program.
DC Comics has developed a marketing campaign that spotlights several award-winning, best-selling titles from our various imprints. Each book reflects an aspect of WATCHMEN’s broad appeal — including other works by Alan Moore, science fiction tales, post-modern super hero action and sophisticated titles for mature readers — and is a great entry point for both new fans just discovering graphic novels and established readers looking to try something new.
The program is supported by an extensive marketing campaign including five promotionally-priced reprint Specials which are rush solicited below.
The marketing campaign includes:
Five “AFTER WATCHMEN, WHAT’S NEXT?” Specials featuring a cover price of just $1.00:
• SAGA OF THE SWAMP THING #21 SPECIAL EDITION
• TRANSMETROPOLITAN #1 SPECIAL EDITION
• PLANETARY #1 SPECIAL EDITION
• PREACHER #1 SPECIAL
• IDENTITY CRISIS #1 SPECIAL
Please see below for more information on these Specials.
Print:
• 32-page booklet to be given away at conventions, comics shops and book stores
• House ads in the DC Universe, Vertigo and WildStorm titles
• Editorial page promotions in Vertigo: On the Ledge, DC Nation and WildStorm Stormfront columns
• Trade ads
Online:
• E-mail Blasts
• National Consumer Online Banner Advertising Campaign
• Retailer Tools on DC Comics retailer page on diamondcomics.com
• Checklist, Header Card, Shelf Talker and Bag Slick
• Bag Stuffer for DC Retailer page for Direct Market retailers
Social Networking:
• AFTER WATCHMEN, WHAT’S NEXT? MySpace Group
• AFTER WATCHMEN, WHAT’S NEXT? Facebook Group
Conventions:
• Ad pages in Convention Program Guides
• 32-page Booklet distribution at DC booth
• Bookmark distribution at DC booth
DCCOMICS.COM:
• Website at www.readwatchmen.com
• Showcase titles on the homepages of DC, WildStorm and Vertigo throughout February, March and April to capture new WATCHMEN readers
• Articles on DC, Vertigo and WildStorm homepages
Co-op:
• Co-op Movie Slide
• Co-op Ad Slick
**********
DC COMICS RUSH SOLICITS FIVE “AFTER WATCHMEN, WHAT’S NEXT?” SPECIALS
Tying into the new “After Watchmen, What’s Next?” program, DC rush solicits five key titles priced at just $1.00 each!
These titles will arrive in stores weekly beginning March 11, and prominently feature the “After Watchmen, What’s Next?” branding and trade dress. Each is offered to all Diamond retailers at a special “C” discount code of 60% off.
Retailers may order these issues by contacting their Diamond Customer Service Representative or DC Sales Representative, or by email atreorders@diamondcomics.com.
The “AFTER WATCHMEN, WHAT’S NEXT?” Specials are:
SAGA OF THE SWAMP THING #21 SPECIAL EDITION (JAN098009)
Written by Alan Moore
Art by Stephen Bissette & John Totleben
Cover by Tom Yeates
On sale March 11; 32 pg, FC, $1.00 US • MATURE READERS
Final Order Cutoff date: February 19
TRANSMETROPOLITAN #1 SPECIAL EDITION (JAN098010)
Written by Warren Ellis
Art by Darick Robertson & Jerome K. Moore
Cover by Geof Darrow
On sale March 18; 32 pg, FC, $1.00 US • MATURE READERS
Final Order Cutoff date: February 26
PLANETARY #1 SPECIAL EDITION (JAN098011)
Written by Warren Ellis
Art and cover by John Cassaday
On sale March 25; 32 pg, FC, $1.00 US
Final Order Cutoff date: March 5
PREACHER #1 SPECIAL EDITION (JAN098012)
Written by Garth Ennis
Art by Steve Dillon
Cover by Glenn Fabry
On sale April 1; 48 pg, FC, $1.00 US • MATURE READERS
Final Order Cutoff date: March 12
IDENTITY CRISIS #1 SPECIAL EDITION (JAN098013)
Written by Brad Meltzer
Art by Rags Morales & Michael Bair
Cover by Michael Turner
On sale April 8; 48 pg, FC, $1.00 US
Final Order Cutoff date: March 19
War of the Witchblades
Official press release below, regarding another milestone issue for one of Top Cow’s most famous titles (following The Darkness #75). You can also check out the three covers available, all of varying raunchiness.
Top Cow Productions, Inc. proudly announced today that the company’s flagship title, Witchblade, will reach issue #125 in March 2009, and the publisher will celebrate this landmark event with an oversized issue including a bonus story.
Witchblade #125 brings the series’ critically acclaimed team of writer Ron Marz and artist Stjepan Sejic together to begin the six-part story arc “War of the Witchblades” which the publishers note is the biggest and most ambitious plot they’ve attempted with their flagship character. Following the events of 2008′s First Born, the Witchblade was split into two halves and the responsibilities split between long time bearer Sara Pezzini and newcomer Danielle Baptiste. Up to this point, Sara and Dani have worked together and developed a sisterly relationship, but that will all change beginning in issue #125.
Witchblade #125, which will wrap up long standing plot conflicts Ron Marz has been adding to Witchblade since he first took over writing duties for the series in 2004 with issue #80, will begin a new era for the comic that the publisher aims to refresh the series for long-standing readers as well as make an attractive jump-on point for new readers unfamiliar with Witchblade. Sejic and Marz have committed themselves to working on Witchblade as the core creative team through issue #150. Sejic has been the regular artist for Witchblade since issue #116.
Artist Chris Bachalo (Uncanny X-Men, Amazing Spider-Man) joins Marz and Sejic for Witchblade #125 to contribute a two-part cover variant featuring protagonists Pezzini and Baptiste. A third cover by Sejic will also be offered.
Witchblade, which has been translated to TV as TNT’s #1 original film of 2000 and its subsequently successful TV series, has been Top Cow’s longest-running series. “Writer Ron Marz continues to plow up so much new ground on Witchblade that I’m beginning to suspect that rather than using a keyboard to pound out his scripts, he might actually be utilizing a 40-ton earthmover instead,” attests comic book talent Terry Austin (Uncanny X-Men).
Jim Cheung, artist of Young Avengers and New Avengers comments, “With compelling stories by one of my favorite writers, and astonishing artwork that makes me want to tuck myself into a corner and cry, I can’t think why Witchblade shouldn’t be on everyone’s reading list.”
Witchblade #125 will also feature a bonus story written by Rob Levin (Darkness: Butcher) and Marco Castiello (Secret Invasion: Frontline).
The Darkness #75 Review
In what could be perceived as a stand alone tale, there is also the sense that this milestone issue for The Darkness reflects upon its past and throws it forward into a bleak future, yet one not without hope.
Writer Phil Hester seems to be enjoying himself more than usual in this issue, titled Absolute Darkness. Fans of the multitude of future X-Men stories will lap this stuff up, as will fans of The Darkness – obviously. This is the 75th issue of Jackie Estacado and his crazy adventures, if you consider all three volumes of this title since launching way back in 1996. That’s an event worth celebrating, and I have to say when the series debuted back in those wonder-filled days of the 90s I certainly didn’t expect it to last this long. I’m very happy to be proven wrong though. Over the decade it’s been published, it has gone from more than just a morose long haired hitman with evil powers book, to an engrossing world building epic.
This special anniversary issue basically sees Jackie peering into his future, or a possible future, as he begins to understand the powers he has could be devastating. The choice will be his. With cameos from familiar characters in the Darkness universe, Jackie is now an old man, with flowing grey hair and few friends. The world is a desolate place filled with the typical betrayals and battles that seem to follow Estacado wherever he goes.
I can’t really say much more than that, but regular readers of this title will get more out of it. However, fans of eye candy will certainly be pleased too. With issues like this, where different artists are brought on for the celebration, the wealth of pencillers can sometimes give the book a hodge podge feel. This isn’t the case here. With only a few pages to work with each artist brings their best, and scenes are wisely chosen for each of their strengths. From Matt Timson (Impaler) to Dale Keown (Hulk) to a host of others, your eyes are treated with a variety of styles; each one a thing of dynamic beauty.
Paul Sizer Art
I interviewed writer/artist Paul Sizer about his latest project B.P.M for the first issue of Extra Sequential, and he continues to belt out great work. Below is a pic of Loo from Paul’s graphic novel, Little White Mouse. If you want to see more of his work, head on over to his site or his sweet DeviantART gallery.
If you happen to live near Michigan, you might also want to check out the man himself, as he takes part in a panel for Michigan comics. Details below.
Michigan Comics: Mirth, Mockery, and Mayhem From the Tri-Coastal State show at Eastern Michigan University. Paul will also have 3 pieces that will travel with the show when it goes on the road.
Here’s the info for the event:
March 31- June 5
Michigan Comics: Mirth, Mockery, and Mayhem From the Tri-Coastal State
University Gallery
Reception: Tues., March 31, 5-7 p.m.
“Michigan artists and writers have created a significant body of cartoons and comics that is distinctive for its quality, inventiveness and variety. Unprecedented in its singular focus on the accomplishments of Michigan artists, this exhibition will be comprised of editorial cartoons, gag panels, comic strips and comic book art by fifty contemporary creators in the field, providing viewers with a opportunity to see the actual artworks instead of viewing them as reproductions in newspapers, magazines and books. Included in the exhibition are works by Dave Coverly (SPEED BUMP), Cathy Guisewite (CATHY), Jim Starlin (WARLOCK) and Mike Thompson (DETROIT FREE PRESS).”
Panel Discussion
Tues March 31, 7-8:30 pm. Student Center Ballroom B
Moderated by EMU professor, Dr. Richard Rubenfeld, this symposium will feature a panel of comic professionals, including Dave Coverly, creator of SPEED BUMP and Paul Sizer creator of B.P.M.
Dr. Who: The Whispering Gallery
Official press release below from IDW about their new 32 page Dr. Who one-shot and its cool inspiration.
In this special one-shot, Dr. Who, The Whispering Gallery, superstar artist Ben Templesmith tackles his first full Dr. Who project, alongside comic book writers Leah Moore & John Reppion. In The Whispering Gallery, the TARDIS lands in a maze-like gallery filled with thousands of talking pictures, and the Doctor and Martha discover they’ve come across a planet where showing emotion has been outlawed. The inhabitants have good reason for their supression, but it wouldn’t be like the Doctor to leave them in fear of truly living. Married writing team Leah Moore and John Reppion have been fans of “Doctor Who” for nearly as long as they can remember, and pitched IDW Publishing on their story idea for the classic British sci-fi hero after Leah had a dream about a two-page spread one night. Leah Moore said the couple had a hard time initially thinking up an original storyline. “Everything we could think up had already been done, or was not the right kind of story. We went off to bed one night after brainstorming fruitlessly for hours, and I went to sleep worrying that we’d not be able to think of anything and miss out on writing it altogether.” After the dream, Leah says she woke up knowing clearing what they would do for Dr. Who, and got the story turned around very quickly after that. Moore and Reppion became involved in the project after being approached by artist Ben Templesmith, an admirer of their work. “Ben actually approached Leah via the modern miracle of Twitter and asked her if we’d be interested in pitching for a Dr Who one-shot with him as the artist,” explained Reppion. “Naturally, we were thrilled and said yes immediately. Ben is a fantastic artist and we both really admire his work, so it’s great to be able to work with him on such a brilliant little project. Doctor Who: The Whispering Gallery hits stands February 29 from IDW Publishing.
Wolverine: Worst Day Ever
Now this sounds like an interesting way to breath new life into Wolverine. That guy has more series every month than you can poke an adamantium prong at, but a new venture coming in April looks set to present him in an intriguing manner. Official press release below.
Marvel is proud to reveal that acclaimed YA novelist Barry Lyga (The Astonishing Adventures of Fanboy and Goth Girl, Hero-Type) will make his Marvel Comics debut with Wolverine: Worst Day Ever, a new illustrated young adults novel . Featuring new cover art by Todd Nauck (Amazing Spider-Man Obama Story), this original illustrated hardcover features a look at Wolverine like you’ve never seen before! “The book is told as a series of blog entries by a new student at Xavier’s School,” Lyga explained, “with illustrations culled from Wolverine and X-Men comics going back as far as Giant-Size X-Men #1. “The difficulty in writing a character like Wolverine is that so many people have had so many things to say about him already. It was my job to introduce the character to a new kind of reader, so I sort of gleefully plunged in and tried to distill Logan down to the basics and then look at him through the very warped eye of a kid who doesn’t have any kind of automatic respect for Wolverine or the X-Men or anyone else, for that matter. Honestly, I’m kinda surprised Marvel let me get away with it.” That’s right, Bub, Wolverine: Worst Day Ever is an all-new illustrated young adults novel examining Wolverine’s life and times as one of Marvel’s deadliest heroes. In stores this April, experience the most unique look ever inside the mind of everyone’s favorite X-Man in Wolverine: Worst Day Ever!
Berserker #0 Review
Top Cow is making a name for themselves these days as a publisher of in-your-face comics. With The Darkness, Impaler, Wanted and now this series, they showcase brutal stories in which characters are thrust into gloriously bloody worlds. Like the best genre films of the 80s, these concepts revel in over the top violence, which make you wince and laugh in equal doses. In a fashion similar to the previously mentioned titles, Berserker knows how to wrap such blood letting in an engrossing story. That’s the key to books like this. Devoid of a great premise, they simply become mindless gore fests. Berserker is a head above (pun intended) such exploitation and delivers the goods in a brief package.
With a well crafted story by Rick Loverd we are dropped into the action immediately, or rather Jorn Farris’ hypnotically induced memories of action. Sitting on a doctor’s couch for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Farris relives his time in Afghanistan as part of a military deployment. Kicking in doors and taking names (or prisoners, at least) Farris and his army buddies seem to be enjoying themselves too much until Jorn and his pal Clint become prisoners themselves after destroying a room full of unarmed men.
Finding the man they were after in an unconventional way, the two prisoners receive torture before Jorn wigs out – big time. Breaking his restraints like a madman he rips one of his captor’s arms off, punches another through the face and soon runs out of targets for meat tearing practice. His thankful and surprisingly calm buddy Clint then speaks up, assuming Jorn will free him and they’ll jet off to safety. Um…no. Poor Clint faces the wrong end of Jorn’s Hulk like madness himself and gets his head separated from his body. The end. Wow. Now comics like hyperbole, but I must say this last page is a stunner.
Jeremy Haun’s pencils with Dave McCaig’s colours really sell this tale. Sure there’s heaps of blood, but it’s not over the top. It all appears real and gives a horror edge to this military adventure. It’s filled with darkness and texture in the Afghanistan scenes and real emotion throughout its pages. By now, you’re guessing that this isn’t one for young eyes and you’d be right. Apart from the violence there’s also profanity one every page of this brisk tale.
This is a teaser for this ongoing series and it’s got me hooked. To fill out the pages there’s a great interview with Loverd and Haun, and also actor Milo Ventimiglia (Heroes, Rocky Balboa) and Ross Cundiff, both from DiVide Pictures. It’s a candid and revealing discussion about the unique Norse inspiration behind this book and is well worth a read. I know we fanboys are easily sceptical of actor’s names on the covers of comics, but Ventimiglia seems to know a good idea when he sees it and helps such concepts come to fruition in some form. His Rest series for Devil’s Due was another great concept, so the hunky actor has a good eye for ideas. Rounding out this 24 pager are interviews and art focusing on Top Cow’s upcoming Cyberforce/Hunter-Killer and War of the Witchblades series. Yes, it’s short on story pages, but makes up for it with cool extras an an action laden narrative.
I’m impressed with Berserker. It’s a great intro to a new series and should be lapped up by fans of Paul Verhoeven’s (Robocop) films. Hopefully it can live up to such high expectations. Check out Dale Keown’s two covers above, and an interview with Ventimiglia about this title here.
Bluewater Goes Green
Official press release below regarding Bluewater Productions’ environmental initiative. Well done I say.
Starting this month, Bluewater is changing its printing to go 100% green and is committed to sustainable, environmentally responsible practices. Not only will their printing be Forest Stewardship Council approved but will also the printer process uses 100% wind energy.
B&B Print Source one of the first Portland area printing firms to be awarded an FSC certification. FSC supports responsible forest management worldwide. Our environmental strategy includes using 100 % wind power credits and the printing inks are 100% vegetable based. B&B is a recent BRAG award winner (Business Recycling Awards Group), awarded for excellence in business recycling practices. In 2007 B&B recycled over 312 tons of waste paper and 80 tons of aluminum plates.
“It is important for us to be responsible with the environment”, said Publisher Darren G. Davis. “We have always tried to do things to cut down on our carbon footprint, so this was the net step for Bluewater. This cost effective way of printing will, also tie into our mission to try to lower prices for the consumers. The quality of the printing will stay the same. We also decided to bring back our printing to the US to do our part to help the economy”.
“In an industry where paper and commercial printing will always be needed, B&B Print Source is poised to provide the comic book industry with the highest quality printing coupled with a strong environmental commitment,” said B&B Printing’s Rick Van Sant.
Each Bluewater comic book will feature the FSC logo as well as the Wind energy logo above the UPC Codes on the cover. Information about the process will be placed on the inside front cover of the books.
Last year Bluewater ran free advertising for the “The Alliance to Save Energy” which promotes energy efficiency worldwide to achieve a healthier economy, a cleaner environment, and greater energy security.
