The Convention Circuit!

            Hey people, how is it going? I know it has been a while, and you probably have no idea who I am! Here is a quick refresher; my name is Austin Allen Hamblin, and I have just graduated high school as of May 2013. I haven’t been around much due to a crazy schedule, but I will be around a lot more I promise.

            This article is all about the convention circuit. I will talk about the do’s and don’ts; what to do as a creator and as a fan. So lets jump right into this!

As a fan!!!

            As a fan going to a comic book or anime convention is a great thing. You can go around and meet all of your favorite creators, meet new ones, buy comics you have been looking for, or just hang out.

            My first piece of advice is something that comes easy to me, but might be a little more difficult to other people; talk to people! I see too many people go up to a creator just get their books signed and just walk away! I can understand if you are a very shy person, but I think at the very least you should thank them.

            I look at it like this, this artist is working on my favorite comic book! I need to ask him about anything and everything about it. I want to get some behind the scene info on my favorite comics out there. You will be surprised what the creators have to say and sometimes you can make a great friend with them just because you talked to them.

            I have done this many times and I have created some lasting relationships with Ryan Stegmen, Phil Hester, Jeff Balke, and many others. It is a really great thing to say “yeah I’m friends with someone who draws Spider-man!” It helps pick up the women. ;)

            Another thing is that you can bring non-comic fans with you. Generally, there is something for everyone. There is anything from actors and artists to writers and a lot of wierdos who can sometimes be the coolest people in the world (like me).

            Know your convention! The worst feeling in the world is going to a convention and seeing an artist but not having a copy of your favorite book for them to sign! Therefore, look up on the website/facebook page to see what all of these people have worked on. No use in meeting them and not having them sign something for you.

 The next thing comes as common sense to most people, but to others it’s not… Bathe at least once a day, even if the smell doesn’t bother you it might bother the people around you. Also don’t forget to eat, I have fallen victim to this before. I get so excited and happy to see people I just don’t eat… Then after I leave I am absolutely starving.

This isn’t everything you need to know to go to a convention, but this might help you out a little bit!

As a creator/artist

Just going

            Okay, this is where I’m going to think people are going to disagree with me, but here I go anyways! Unlike the fan, as a creator you have to go and try to network and find some work, collaborators, or publishers. I’m not saying that you can’t have any “fun”, but it’s not as easy.

            The first thing you can do that will go a long way is to print some business cards. It’s the easiest way to stay in touch with people. If you don’t have any it is extremely difficult to stay in touch. I’m not saying you have to get some fancy, elaborate business cards printed that cost 5 dollars a piece, just have something.

            Earlier, I talked about talking to creators. As a fan you just want to ask about behind the scene stuff, but as a creator you want to learn how to get better. The main thing is to listen. I was at a con recently and someone went up to a professional to ask him to take a look at his artwork. The professional agreed, but when he nicely made some suggestions the man made excuses and told him when he was wrong… He told a professional, whom he had asked for pointers, that he was wrong. Frankly, I don’t think that man will make it in comics.

            What would he do if an editor asked him to make some changes? Say no? Make excuses? That wouldn’t exactly fly. Especially if he told the editor he was wrong. As far as I am concerned, if you ask for someone’s input you should’nt be able to tell them if they are “wrong”. You should listen and possibly take notes; if something is not clear make a follow up question.

Setting up

            If you are setting up make sure you are ready. Don’t go out and get a table at C2E2 if you have one comic out. It would be a waste of time. Never have a number in your head that you will sell a ton of items. If everything goes south, you will be devastated.

            One thing that I always notice is the setup of a table. If everything lies flat some people walking around will walk right on by. I, myself, bought a three tear display rack so people could see the merchandise better.

            Also, it’s all about presentation. Dress nice because, well, would you buy a comic from a complete slob? I wouldn’t! So be presentable. I’m not saying wear a suit; a nice shirt and pants will do.

            One of the things that I have talked over with some people is bugging people. Do not, I repeat, do not go out and stop people to sell them your merchandise. You are capitalizing on most people’s inability to say no. Sure you’ve made some money and sold some books, but how many people are mad that they bought that book? You’re destroying your fanbase before you have one.

            One thing that bugs me is when people give out free candy. It does not work. People will come get candy and then walk away so your just out the money. I do suggest on top of selling your comics, you can sell original artwork, prints, buttons, along with shirts.

The Drag along!

            In the past two weeks I have been to two cons; one setting up and one walking around. Both times, my wonderful girlfriend went with me. I have asked her to write a little bit about here experiences seeing as how she is not a gigantic nerd like me.

            I have never been to a comic convention before meeting Austin, and I did not know exactly what to expect. I had a picture in my head of a room filled with 30 year-old men who still lived with their mothers wearing capes. In reality, I learned that comic conventions are home to a variety of different people. 

            Everyone should be able to find something of interest to them at a comic book convention.  For example, I am not a huge comic book fan, but at the convention I was able to find other so-called nerdy items that I thought were cool, such as Harry Potter and Doctor Who sketches, shirts, and toys. I was even able to purchase a caricature of Doctor Who’s body and my face!

            Being a drag along can be boring at times if you are not completely involved in the comic book life. Therefore, I suggest bring something to entertain you during what can be up to hours of walking around or sitting. Speaking of which, I would like to take this time to thank my uncle for buying me a smartphone for Christmas!

Julius Gopez is an artist for DC Comics. He has done work on such titles like Fringe, Gears of War, Ravagers and is now on Red Hood and the Outlaws. He was nice enough to speak with us about his career thus far.

1.) How did you begin working for DC?

I did try to penetrate comics on my own, without an agent, but it turns out to be very hard for me.  Since I am living here in the Philippines, I cannot go to conventions, and an agent got me work at DC. I have lots of samples on every genre just to be sure that i will be getting a shot at any available project DC may have. My agent took my samples, and I got a shot.

2.) What led you to want to join the company as an ongoing artist?

DC is one of the main publishers of comics; any artist would want to join DC. It’s an artist’s dream come true.

2.

A) Did your work on Fringe and Gears of War series allow you to show

them your talent?

What talent? Lol. Talent for me is keeping up with time and style. An artist should be a step ahead of time and style, and I am still learning and still educating myself. I haven’t polished the gift I was given just yet.

B.) Are you a fan of either of those series?

I haven’t read comics for a long time. I read old stuff from DC, but I read comics because i want to study how the artist interpret a story.

3.) Tell me about how you found yourself working on Ravagers?

I was excited because I got to draw Superboy and Fairchild. I wish I could draw them again and again.

4.) What attracted you to those characters?

First, they are famous. I mean it’s a level up status for an artist to drawfamous characters. It is a finer moment for me to draw comics but it’s my finest moment to draw well- known characters. I’ve been drawing these characters since I was a boy, and when it came to me drawing these characters, I felt I was back in the old days when I got to lay on the floor just me and my pencils doing my own story in my head. While drawing them, I used to make my own sound effects. I am very happy with my time drawing them.

5.) Who was your favorite to draw?

Of course, Superboy.

6.) Explain how you, Tom DeFalco and Howard Mackie worked together?

They just sent me the script, and the script was so precise and descriptive that there was no need for any further explanations.

7.) Tell me how you ended up on Red Hood.

I guess some of my earlier work put me where I am now.

9.) Did James Tynion IV have any input in bringing you on board?

I guess somebody else has the authority to put people on teams together.

10.) What attracted you to the project?

Again, they are famous characters. Red Hood is making me a bit famous too. Lol. As I read along the story, the characters seem to become more and more real after each issue.

11.) Explain your collaborative process with James……

He is very good at describing scenes. He doesn’t need to explain because it is already very clear in the script.

12.) What do you hope to bring to the book? Are you staying on the for

the long haul?

I am hoping that is the case. I am still hoping that I can bring something to the series. I am still trying to find out what can i contribute with the characters and the story on an artist point of view. I hope I will be drawing Red Hood for a long time.

 13.) Can you explain what exactly will happen to Jason?

 He seemed to have had his mind completely wiped clean! That cannot be!  I do not think I am at liberty to reveal anything. Sorry.

 14.) What other projects do you have coming up? Any new DC work?

 I am not hearing anything about projects after Red Hood. So, keep your fingers crossed!

_____________

Tommy Zimmer is an upcoming writer of short stories, comic books, journalism/media reviews, screenplays, and anything related to writing. On zimmert101.wordpress.com, you can view his latest work, and see what exciting things he is currently doing!!

Click here to view the video on YouTube.

A newly launched crowdfunding campaign on Kickstarter, The Bad Dream Reliquary, has just gone live and is raising funds for the production of a quarterly graphic novel horror anthology. The Reliquary is written by Seattle author Brett Reistroffer and will feature art from up to ten different artists illustrating short stories of horror, suspense, dark fantasy, and the macabre. Also collected in the 100 plus pages of content in each volume will be articles by guest contributors, featured art, and short fiction.

The production of the first volume is well underway, with the cover and interior art of the first short story being handled by the book’s production designer, Zimbabwe-Canadian artist Darcray. We have recently initiated a Kickstarter campaign to raise funds for the further production of the first installment, helping us pay for the remaining art, most of which will be coming from a varied cast of new and upcoming artists in the indie comic world.

Writer: Jon Paul Smith
Pencils: Jon Paul Smith
Inks: Jon Paul Smith
Number of Pages: 40
Price: 12.50
Color: Black & White
Safety Content Label: PARENTAL ADVISORY – 15 years and older. Similiar to T+ but featuring more mature themes and/or more graphic imagery.

Publisher’s Blurb:
I’ve recently published my first comic book, I’ve released this book and a series of limited edition prints in an attempt to raise some funding so I can work on completing my graphic novel.

Reviewer’s Comments:
Comic Book Project is an intense action packed, plot driven book that fans will definitely enjoy.

The story is from first time comic book writer and artist Jon-Paul Smith and he does an excellent job of keeping readers involved in the story both script wise and visually. The plot’s premise has the main character Libby going on a journey to avenger her father as well as deal out ass kicking revenge to the people responsible along the way.

I also appreciate that Smith’s main character is a strong character who also happens to be a woman and that is what the comic book industry needs more of.

The art is flawless and I love the gray scale that Smith uses. The action is seamless and the robot suit that Libby uses reminds me a little bit of both the first classic Iron Man suit that Tony Stark built as well as Juggernaut’s helmet. It’s just that awesome.

Overall this book is off to a great start and has a lot of promise. I look forward to to the completed graphic novel. But until that arrives, Comic Book Project #0 is worth reading and re-reading!

Click here to view the video on YouTube.

Click here to view the video on YouTube.

Publisher’s Blurb:
MEET HARVEY SPIG. LOVER, FIGHTER, AND SUPERSPY SUPREME!!!!

Reviewer’s Comments:
A spy and zombie ape fighting on the streets of London in the dead of night in the 1930′s is an interesting concept and so I was intrigued after reading this mini comic and I wanted to read more.

I only gave this review a 3.5/5 only because it was a very short book and I really wanted to have more to read.

Though it is a short comic, action and comedy abound. Perrins’ script is well paced and Gonzo’s artwork is unique and has a certain vibe which reminds me of other artists who’ve worked in the comic underground.

The story is pretty cool and I look forward to what comes next for Harvey Spig in his adventures.

“Spider-Man No More”

Publisher Blurb:

Will tragedy force Miles to quit?! Bombshell is back! An all new Cloak and Dagger!!!

Reviewers Comments:

Remember when there was a bit of a controversy in the press about Miles Morales taking over the mantle of Spider-Man from Peter Parker? Yeah, me neither. Almost two-years removed from the debut of the current incarnation of Ultimate Spider-Man and if there’s one thing that is evident, Miles isn’t a replacement or stop gap Spider-Man, he is truly the Ultimate Spider-Man. And in the grand Spider-Man tradition, Miles has recently dealt with a tragedy with the lose of his (add spoiler material here) at the hands of Venom.

After the recent issues that Miles has had to deal with during the recently concluded ‘Venom War’, issue #23 is a palette cleaner. Issue #23 picks up one year removed from issue #22 and an older Miles has held true to his word (as well as the title of the storyline) and stayed out of the spandex and spider mask. After all the action were the previous issues, #23 pumps the brakes and focuses on Miles and his relationships (which are the hallmark of any quality Spider-Man series) with his best friend Ganke, his girlfriend Katie Bishop (a name that should be familiar to readers of the 616 Marvel Universe), his father as well as Jessica Drew (Spider-Woman).

As usual, the art of Dave Marquez is spectacular. From page one, panel one, it’s apparent that not only is Miles a bit older, but due to the events of issue #22, he’s a changed young man. There’s a fury, an anger within Miles which is eerily similar to his 616 counterpart. Marquez’s art, coupled with Bendis’s script adds up to an issue that maybe like on costumes but high on drama.

Overall, I look forward seeing if and how an older Miles decides to don the Spider-Man identity once more; however, if it takes him several issues to reclaim his mantle it won’t necessarily be such a bad thing for the reader.

Publisher’s Blurb:
Tank Girl, Jet Girl, Booga and Barney are back and on a mission to save their favourite little radio store. Things are going according to plan, too, but somewhere along the line Booga manages to electronically summon the gang’s evil counterparts, fronted by the darkest bitch on the planet – ANTI-TANK GIRL! The fight is to the death, as each gang member draws on their deepest, most screwed-up powers to eliminate their own personal nemesis. Things are about to get very dark, very bloody… and very stupid!

Reviewer’s Comments:
Tank Girl returns in this epic start to a new miniseries. Tank Girl, along with her friends Jet Girl, Booga and Barney return to start a new adventure. On a mission to save their favorite radio store, Booga somehow manages to release the gang’s evil counterparts who are lead by Anti-Tank Girl. Needless to say all hell breaks loos as the gang has to draw upon their messed up powers to save the day. The question is will they be able to or is it sayonara for Tank-Girl and her gang? And what will happened to the radio store? You’ll just have to keep reading to find out!

Originally created by Martin and one half of the critically-acclaimed virtual band Gorillaz, Jamie Hewlett, this series has Martin teaming up with newcomer artist Cadwell who does an excellent job illustrating Tank Girl. His art reminds me at times of a psychedelic meets punk art form and it meshes well with Martin’s maddening, and extraordinary scripting. There are times when what’s going on might not make any logical sense, but that’s the point. Tank Girl makes sense in its bizarre and surreal way. This is a comic that readers who are looking for the unique, strange and excellent should pick up.

“SCREWED fits right into the Zenescope wheelhouse and is a perfect addition to our catalog of titles. The combination of Tyler and Zenescope makes this book a must have.” says Zenescope Marketing Manager Stephen Haberman. “I’ve always been a huge fan of Horror films and I love the idea of Frankenstein.” Says creator Tyler Kirkham “It’s a story that’s been retold a million times but none have been like this! This has horror, action and some flat-out sick, twisted moments! I always thought Zenescope would be a great fit for the story as it has a strong lead female role. I’m extremely excited for this series.”

Screwed follows a young woman who awakens in a hospital covered in scars as if she had been taken apart and put back together again; her mind as fragmented as her body. As she tries to piece together what’s happened to her, she will find many enemies are after her but she’ll also find a valuable ally in FBI Agent Erin Scott.

CREDITS:

• Words: Tyler Kirkham, Keith Thomas
• Art: David Miller
• Covers: Tyler Kirkham, David Miller
• Colors: Oracle

• Publisher: Zenescope Entertainment
• Price: $2.99
• Release Date: June 12, 2013
• SCREWED is available for pre-order/re-order through Diamond’s April edition of PREVIEWS.

Click here to view the video on YouTube.

Click here to view the video on YouTube.

Click here to view the video on YouTube.

With Silence & Co., the new black and white graphic novel, arriving on store shelves later this month, Crystal Productions has released the full length animatic trailer.

Click here to view the video on YouTube.

Crystal Productions has also released the final free preview of the book online. Presented as an omnibus 84 page compilation of the three sections released so far, genre fans can now try out the full first half of the book for free, online, with no downloads or special software required. You can find the link on the book’s website at http://www.silenceandco.com/retail/preview/, or a direct, embeddable version is available at http://issuu.com/gurben7/docs/silence_and_co_first_half_5.7.13?mode=window.

The book has been receiving rave reviews prior to release, currently sitting at a fantastic 9.5 on ComicBookRoundup.com. Greg Hatcher at CBR calls it “enormously compelling… It’s very tough and cool, in much the same action-movie, hard-R tradition as other crime comics like 2 Guns and The Losers”, while Mingqua Nguyen over at WCBR described the book as “Pulp at its finest. A terrific sample of the genre, proving that you can have sex, drugs, and violence in a story and still keep it classy”, and Brett Schenker at Graphic Policy writes “an action movie in graphic novel form.” For these and other reviews, please visit the site at http://www.silenceandco.com/retail/reviews/.

The story of a young hitman taking on the world’s most powerful criminal bank.

The book is a 176 page, black and white, original graphic novel.
Art is by Ron Randall (Alien, Star Wars, Trekker), letters by Eisner winner John Workman (Thor, Marvel 1985), cover by Eisner winner Steve Lieber (Whiteout, Shooters, Alabaster), and written by Gur Benshemesh (Morgan St. Watch Co.).

The order code for the book is MAR130990 SILENCE & CO GN, and MSRP is only $9.99.

Source Point Press has announced the release of their brand new comic book series, “Jack of Spades”, to coincide with the Motor City Comic Con on May 17th. This new original comic book series follows Jack Spade as he battles “paranormals”, characters emerging with incredible powers and abilities, in a world on the verge of change.

“When you give man the power of a god, you can’t expect all of them to do the right thing,” says Jack of Spades creator Trico Lutkins. “Businesses and private individuals are willing to pay large sums to protect them against paranormals that their government and law enforcement seem helpless against. That is where our main character comes in…”

Jack of Spades is written by Trico Lutkins and penciled and inked by illustrator Joshua Werner. Lutkins’ writing can be found in a number of new releases from Source Point Press, including the book “Delightfully Wicked Poetic Tales”, the short story “Jack of Spades: Lonely Tower Lives” in the anthology “Alter Egos” (which also includes a story written by Joshua Werner), and other titles. Werner’s illustration work is vast, covering a number of genres. He has worked on such characters and licensed properties as Vampirella, John Carter Warlord of Mars, Transformers, Dead World, Night of the Living Dead, Dracula, War of the Worlds, Sherlock Holmes, and others.

“I’m very excited to have this series off the ground,” says writer Trico Lutkins. “Everything has come together perfectly. JoS has the best illustrator and collaborator a guy could ask for, Joshua Werner. And I’m very proud to have JoS as the flagship series for Source Point Press’ comic book line.”

“Jack of Spades has a unique visual style and fresh take on the superhero genre that will excite a lot of readers,” says illustrator Joshua Werner. “It’s definitely going to turn some heads, and it’s the start of something big. I recommend readers jump on this story now so they can watch this incredible story unfold from the beginning.”

Jack of Spades #0, the premier issue of the series, will be available for sale in limited stores and online retailers; those having trouble finding the premier issue are encouraged to visit www.sourcepointcomics.com for purchases and inquiries.

Source Point Press is an independent press that publishes anthologies, novels, chapbooks, comics, and graphic novels. Source Point press has a number of products available or scheduled for release in the near future including the comic series “Serial” and “Source Point Press Presents”, the anthologies “Alter Egos Volume 1″ and “Alter Egos Volume 2″, and the books “Delightfully Wicked Poetic Tales”, and “Weird Little Kid”.

More information can be found at www.SourcePointPress.com and www.facebook.com/SourcePointPress Email questions to sourcepointpress@gmail.com

Photos courtesy of Fanboy Buzz’s Tommy Zimmer and Bestow Productions’ Paul Sanders, Alex Sanders and Todd Day.

Courtesy of Fanboy Buzz’s Tommy Zimmer and Bestow Production’s Paul Sanders and Alex Sanders.

The cover art for Dirigible Days: 998 will be drawn by two-time Eisner Award winning artist Rick Burchett, best known for his work with DC Comics, Marvel and Disney, including The Batman and Robin Adventures and the steampunk web comicLady Sabre and the Pirates of the Ineffable Aether.  Artist Chris Bailey, creator of the promotional art and introduction animation used in the Dirigible Days web series, will be illustrating the interior artwork.

“Taking the story from a web series to a comic is an exciting challenge,” says Gary Lobstein of Day 304. “I love movies and comics, so it will be a blast to make Dirigible Days in both mediums and show just how expansive this world is.”

Day 304 Productions is running a Kickstarter fundraiser from April 19 until May 31 to produce the comic book. The $7,800 goal is needed to pay for artwork and printing costs. If successful, Dirigible Days: 998 will be released Summer 2014 and will be available for purchase online and at local St. Louis comic book stores. The Dirigible Days web series was also produced with funds from a successful Kickstarter campaign.

Steampunk is a science fiction genre that mixes 19^th century fantasy and the Wild West with steam-powered machinery and anachronistic technology.

A breakout entry in the burgeoning steampunk market, Dirigible Days has won multiple film festival awards, and its Facebook page has over 7,600 fans. The five-part science-fiction web series followed the crew of the airship S.S. Beatrix and their fateful encounter with the sadistic leader of the Cult of Cthulhu and featured voice over narration by Anthony Daniels (C-3PO from Star Wars).

Hitting stores now, fans are in for another themed-issue treat as DRAVN is unleashed for a full-issue saga of inter-related tales where dizzying heights of storytelling mastery cross paths with unadulterated science-fantasy. What if super-powered heroes and villains have always existed, buried somewhere under our mythology and folklore? We’re not talking about capes and tights, we’re talking about the real demi-gods that walked and pounded the Earth!

Created by filmmaker Jesse Negron (AMERICAN FIGHTER PILOT, POP & ME) and written by Negron with our old friend Dave Elliott (ATOMEKA, MONSTER MASSACRE), DRAVN features characters designed exclusively by Hollywood concept artist Keith Thompson (DON’T BE AFRAID OF THE DARK, PACIFIC RIM), and brought to life by artists from around the globe, including members of Imaginary Friends Studios and STELLAR Labs, to name a few.

In this epic story, history and legend get a bit twisted with characters as diverse as Camelot knights and Romanian impalers and Nazi stormtroopers all getting connected by greater forces, as super-beings stand revealed as the decision-makers and the rest of humanity left struggling with the pieces of a cosmic gambit more screwy than a primetime news headline.

Said HM pinch-hitting editor Dave Elliott, “I have always felt fiction is escape. Anything that takes you from where you are to someplace else is by definition escape. I think the metaphor is the most effective way of achieving that escape. By creating something that feels familiar and resonates with you it’s easier to believe in and therefore a more immersive experience can be achieved. With DRAVN we’re taking you to places that you’ve heard of and are familiar with and subverting them. Not much different from doing an “Elseworlds” or a “What If” story but with history and myth.”

Featuring an iconic choice of hyper-gorgeous covers by Kow Yokoyama, Kendrick Lim, Rob Prior, and Stanley Lau, the $7.95, king-sized issue is on sale now at finer books and comics shops everywhere, as well as directly from Heavy Metal. DRAVN is set to dive across mediums, across platforms, and it all starts in our pages. We feel like a new dad.

For more info, scope out the official DRAVN website and stalk us at the Heavy Metal site, your home away from hell!

MONSTRA: ZOMBIE DESTROYER is a 125 page full color graphic novel printed on the highest quality glossy paper stock utilizing the pinnacle of current printing and production methods.
They will also produce a limited deluxe hardcover of the graphic novel as well as a 11 x 17 sketchbook featuring pencil art from the first issue and concept art.
Multiple packages will be available through Kickstarter including retailer focused bulk copy discount packages as well as fan friendly collector packages relating to the new title.

The story involves a sentient zombie and her slacker boyfriend at the outset of the end of days. The government has contained an initial outbreak of infected undead . A widespread zombie outbreak has been averted through military involvement and the establishment of quarantined areas around the country. Small sub-sections of the human population have been discovered to be immune to the bites to varying degrees. This results in humans with this immunity being highly sought after for military service and biological testing. Monstra is one such human who has a partial resistance causing her to be half zombie half human. She joins a military outfit with her boyfriend which is assigned to eradicate zombies who roam the quarantined areas.

This title will be one of numerous titles which occur in a self-contained new comics universe initiative called UNIVERSE BORN. The writer has been creating these characters for an alternative comprehensive comic book world over twenty years.

The series features the artist Dave Acosta and über-colorist Justin Case!

Join our battle at: http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1420428366/monstra-zombie-destroyer

More information: www.devilsduedigital.com

APRIL 24, MILWAUKIE, OR—Dark Horse Digital reaches a new landmark, turning two years old this coming weekend. To thank its loyal fans, Dark Horse announces two special anniversary promotions, as well as huge news that will change the digital-comics publishing landscape forever.

Dynamite Entertainment has inked a deal to include its comics digitally through the Dark Horse Digital store and apps. Thirty single issues and more than twenty collections are available for purchase today! New titles will be added weekly, with all upcoming Dynamite releases available digitally the same day as print.

“We’ve been looking for ways to expand our digital presence, and this is our first step to building an even more robust library of digital comics,” said Dark Horse President Mike Richardson.

“We’re proud to add Dark Horse Digital to our retail partners selling our digital titles to their audience. Our wide range of titles, from Vampirella to Battlestar Galactica, Grimm, The Shadow, Red Sonja, and many of our other Dynamite titles, are a perfect fit for the large audience who purchase Dark Horse titles. We’re thrilled to work with Mike and his team at Dark Horse Digital on this new endeavor and excited about new opportunities to come,” added Nick Barrucci, Dynamite Entertainment’s CEO and publisher.

As a sign of appreciation for its loyal digital subscribers, Dark Horse Digital announces that fifty free first issues from many of its best-selling series will be available for the next forty-eight hours (promotion ends Friday, April 26, at 9 a.m. PST).

Starting Friday morning and throughout the weekend, Dark Horse Digital is offering 10 percent off all bundles in the web store! And confirmed newsletter subscribers will receive an additional coupon! The newsletter coupon stacks with the bundle discount, offering even greater savings.

The sale starts this Friday, April 26, and ends Sunday, April 28, at midnight PST—so head over to Dark Horse Digital and sign up for the Digital Newsletter to maximize the discount.

Dark Horse Comics launched its standalone comic-reader app and digital store on April 27, 2011, and has received incredible support from the continuously growing digital-comics fan base.

Since then, Dark Horse Digital has grown significantly in numbers and readership by featuring its most popular and best-selling titles, including Star Wars, Buffy, Serenity, Hellboy, Conan, and Mass Effect, as well as exclusive digital-only comics such as Falling Skies, Prototype 2, and Dragon Age. Dark Horse Digital also provides sales and discounts for its readers on a weekly basis. It currently offers thousands of comics and continues to increase the digital availability of the Dark Horse back catalog.

Dark Horse Digital is available through all modern web browsers and features cloud storage through both the Google Play and iOS apps.

For additional information, check out the exclusive interview with Dark Horse President Mike Richardson and Dynamite Entertainment’s CEO Nick Barrucci on Comic Book Resources!
About Dark Horse Digital
Founded in 1986 by Mike Richardson, Dark Horse Comics has grown to become the third-largest comics publisher in the United States and is acclaimed internationally for the quality and diversity of its line. In 2011, the company that revolutionized the comic industry proudly presented its groundbreaking digital-publishing program, Dark Horse Digital.

Dark Horse Digital offers its most popular titles at an unprecedented value, while providing the highest-quality reading experience possible. Single-issue comics are priced as low as just $0.99, and there is also an extensive list of free introductory #1 issues. Additionally, DH Digital’s “bundles” group together story arcs spanning multiple issues into affordable packages, allowing readers to get all the issues that comprise a complete narrative, starting at just $3.99 and up. And through cloud-based technology, Digital Store purchases can be read and enjoyed online on your computer or, mobile browser, and through the Dark Horse Bookshelf apps, available on iTunes App Store and Google Play.

To get started, simply log on to Digital.DarkHorse.com or download the app to create an account, and begin building your collection today.

About Dynamite Entertainment

DYNAMITE ENTERTAINMENT was founded in 2004 and is home to several best-selling comic book titles and properties, including The Boys, The Shadow, Vampirella, Warlord of Mars, Bionic Man, A Game of Thrones, and more!

Dynamite owns and controls an extensive library with over 3,000 characters (which includes the Harris Comics and Chaos Comics properties), such as Vampirella, Pantha, Evil Ernie, Smiley the Psychotic Button, Chastity, Purgatori, and Peter Cannon: Thunderbolt.

In addition to their critically-acclaimed titles and bestselling comics, Dynamite works with some of the most high profile creators in comics and entertainment, including Kevin Smith, Alex Ross, John Cassaday, Garth Ennis, Jae Lee, Marc Guggenheim, Mike Carey, Jim Krueger, Greg Pak, Brett Matthews, Matt Wagner, and a host of up-and-coming new talent!

Dynamite is consistently ranked in the upper tiers of comic book publishers and several of their titles – including Alex Ross and Jim Krueger’s Project Superpowers – have debuted in the Top Ten lists produced by Diamond Comics Distributors. In 2005, Diamond awarded the company a GEM award for Best New Publisher and another GEM in 2006 for Comics Publisher of the Year (under 5%) and again in 2011. The company has also been nominated for and won several industry awards, including the prestigious Harvey and Eisner Awards.

Out to prove that all-ages does not have to equal low quality or less entertaining, Big Dog Ink is bringing out the big guns to rock this comic book series. Powerhouse writer Tom Hutchison puts this homage to all things retro and FUN into fancy dialog and otherworldly scenes. As if the writer of Critter & Legend of Oz: The Wicked West wasn’t enough talent, Avengelyne artist Owen Gieni also joins the Big Dog Ink family with his gorgeous pencils and bright & beautiful colors. Issue #1 features three gorgeous covers by Owen that make a beautiful set to collect as well as a perfect introduction to the world of Serusis!

While this series is great for the younger comic book readers in your life, it’s also got a story that will be appealing to fans of any and all persuasions. Issue #1 begins when the Serusian’s abduct a quartet of unwitting humans, and with Big Dog Ink as the publisher, who knows where it will end! Talking otherworldly snakes, mysterious magical devices, a prophecy waiting to be fulfilled and so much more. Don’t miss out on the newest story from the publisher that’s taking the comic book world by storm!

Serusis #1 (of 6) is currently available for pre-order in the April Diamond Previews catalog for June 2013 Release with a retail price of $3.50. For more information or for promotional materials or opportunities please email Kim@bigdogink.com.

About Big Dog Ink
Founded in 2009, Big Dog Ink is an independent publisher of diverse comic book properties such as PENNY FOR YOUR SOUL, URSA MINOR, CRITTER, KNIGHTINGAIL and REX: ZOMBIE KILLER. Since its inception, Big Dog Ink has quickly become a top publisher in the industry with its hit series, THE LEGEND OF OZ: THE WICKED WEST, which has consistently charted in the “Diamond Top 300″ list. BDI has gained a loyal fan following due to our high quality art, stories and dedication to elevating the art of small press and creator owned publishing.

David Finch is an artist currently with DC Comics. He is a Windsor native, and the current artist on Justice League of America. He currently just finished his run on Batman: The Dark Knight and has completed a few covers for the new series Katana. Mr. Finch was nice enough to speak with us again since we last saw at Detroit FanFare.

TZ: What are you doing now? Katana covers, right?

DF: I was doing them but Justice League of America’s really taken over my life.

TZ: How difficult is it doing all the inking now? Last time I spoke, you have taken over all the duties….

DF: It’s actually a lot more gratifying, and it’s nice to see the finished product from start to finish. I have worked with some great inkers but it’s nice to have it just be my own work.

TZ: What can you talk about coming up?

DF: They are all going to fight, and that’s comin’; all mayhem and destruction.

TZ: Is that going to play into “Trinity War”?

DF: I think it’s no real secret JLA is really designed with Justice League in mind. I don’t think revealing too much to say something’s going to come out of the match-ups between the rosters in the first issue. I don’t even know what’s coming up….

TZ: Geoff keeps a tight lid on things…?

DF: Yah. But frankly, I don’t want to know what’s coming up. I want to know where we are now, and be where the characters are. A year out, it takes me out of an event.

TZ: What’s your favorite character to draw? Is it still Green Arrow?

DF: Right now, it’s Martian Manhunter. It may change again.

TZ: You tend to reveal a lot of the physicality with Simon Baz and the Manhunter… was that intentional? I know you do that in a lot of your work….

DF: Yah. I mean, these characters are supposed to be opposing, and they are larger than life but not regular people. I want to get that across every time I introduce a character. The more room I can get to do that big splash page, I am happy.

TZ: What else are you doing right now?

DF: I am honestly doing nothing more right now.

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Tommy Zimmer is an upcoming writer of short stories, comic books, journalism/media reviews, screenplays, and anything related to writing. On zimmert101.wordpress.com, you can view his latest work, and see what exciting things he is currently doing!!

Jeff Lemire is the current writer behind Green Arrow, Animal Man and Justice League Dark. He recently finished a crossover with Scott Snyder’s Swamp Thing entitled “Rot World” and finished a major storyline in Justice League Dark. He is about to begin co-writing with Geoff Johns a few issues of Justice League of America. Mr. Lemire was nice enough to speak with us.

TZ: How did you get into comics?

JL: I started self-publishing my own stuff I wrote. I went to Kinko’s, and stapled it together to shop it around. Then, I got a publishing grant in 2005 from the Zurich Foundation for my first graphic novel. From there, I submitted some stuff to Top Shelf.

TZ: What work at Top Shelf do you think really got you noticed?

JL: I did The Essex County Trilogy of graphic novels. There were some editors at DC and Vertigo that really liked that book.

TZ: Who did you pitch to at DC?

JL: I pitched to Bob Schreck, and then I ended up getting Sweet Tooth. That all kind of led me to doing more DC Universe stuff. Those were all sorts of gradual steps over almost ten years.

TZ: What do you prefer doing more: writing or drawing?

JL: I love drawing my own stuff. I love the complete control that comes with it. But, I love working with artists because I love the collaborative aspect of writing with other artists.

TZ: How did you get into Animal Man?

JL: DC came to me with a few options. I loved the Grant Morrison stuff, and I had a lot of affinity for the character. They liked my vision for the character.

TZ: How did you decide what to change in the mythos?

JL: You always try to keep what you love from the old stuff but also try to make it accessible to new reader. So, it is a balancing act.

TZ: What was it like working with Travel Forman?

JL: I think he’s a genius. He brought a lot to it, and he really helped establish the tone of that book.

TZ: What made you leave Frankenstein?

JL: It was Justice League Dark being offered to me, and there were so many of my favorite characters that I couldn’t say no. I also knew I could also eventually work Frankenstein in so I could kind of get the best of both worlds.

TZ: How is it working with Mikal Janin?

JL: He’s such a great guy, and I think he’s a really wonderful artist.

TZ: Have you guys ever met one another?

JL: We met for the first time back in Atlanta because he’s in Spain.

TZ: What stuff do you have coming up for Justice League Dark?

JL: We have a big storyline coming up I am working on with Geoff Johns.

TZ: Are you taking over co-writing Justice League?

JL: We are doing a story together.

TZ: So, it’s a crossover?

JL: It will be… yah.

TZ: Is that involved in Trinity War?

JL: Definitely. They will probably announce it soon.

TZ: What do you have coming up in Animal Man?

JL: We finished the big “Rot” storyline. So, what I am really trying to do is move the book away from Swamp Thing, and do stories really specific to Animal Man again. I am really focusing on Buddy Baker’s celebrity now.

TZ: What made you want to take on Constantine?

JL: He’s been one of my favorite characters that kept me reading comics since I was a kid, and when I was offered it, I couldn’t say no.

TZ: Did editorial approach you for it because I know Robert Vendetti was originally on it…?

JL: Rob’s a good friend of mine but they announced he was doing Green Lantern. So, he had to make a decision, and I had already been doing the character on Justice League Dark. So, it seemed like a natural thing but I am only like co-plotting the first five issues of Constantine. I am not heavily involved in it. It’s more Ray’s book.

TZ: What do you have coming up?

JL: Green Arrow obviously, and I have a new Vertigo book called Thrillium I am writing and drawing. It’s a sci-fi love story.

TZ: What’s coming up for Ollie?

JL: The Komodo storyline is our first arc, and then we get to reinvent a classic Green Arrow villain which I am really excited about.

TZ: Could it be Count Vertigo?

JL: Perhaps.

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Tommy Zimmer is an upcoming writer of short stories, comic books, journalism/media reviews, screenplays, and anything related to writing. On zimmert101.wordpress.com, you can view his latest work, and see what exciting things he is currently doing!!

Genre: Comic Book Podcast | Updates: Often | Duration: 84 minutes | Subscribe: RSS Feed

Show Note 1: Hockey Show Note
Show Note 2: JS Show Note

“Denial”

Publisher Blurb:

On the darkest of nights, who is the one person Batman meets that could change his life forever?

Reviewers Comments:

I hope I’m not being too blasphemous in my statement, but Grant Morrison giveth and he taketh away.

Unless you’re one of those few fanboys (or girls) that’s avoided spoilers from Batman, Inc. #8 than you’re one of the few fans out there that has no idea that Damien Wayne has gone the way of the dodo, 30 Rock and the New York Knicks 13-game winning streak. Now, I’ve personally gone on the record and stated my complete and utter admiration for the character of Damien Wayne, and I’ve also enjoyed how the creative team of Tomasi and Gleason have handled the young Wayne and his exploits. Now, with the untimely demise of the fourth Robin (third if you accept that Tim Drake was technically never Robin) I, like other fans of this title, openly wonders the direction of Batman & Robin in the long term.

However in the now, issue #19 of Batman & Red Robin continues to follow a sidekickless Batman. Keeping in lockstep with the silent “Requiem” issue, Bruce Wayne/Batman attempts to deal with a great deal of emotional turmoil, as well as make sense of the death of his only biological son. For a person living under normal circumstances it’s difficult to handle the death of a loved one, so for someone like Batman—a hard case vigilante—this is an experience that can’t be punched, kicked, or elbowed away.

Complicating matters for Bruce Wayne (as the cover suggest), he’s introduced to a young woman in Carrie Kelley (in what can be perceived as in poor taste), with ties to Damien that he as a father (and detective) knew nothing about. As for the Batman, the Dark Knight’s grief manifest itself in actions befitting of a super villain. The desperation of the World’s Greatest Detective reveals a willingness for extreme measures that a character like, Superman, would ever breech in order to resurrect a loved one. It’s also Batman’s borderline criminal behavior which allows for this issues co-star, Red Robin, to seamlessly work his way into the tale. All of this is made possible through the combined might of Tomasi and Patrick Gleason, who’s work over the last several issues remains me of ChrisCross (artist on Blood Syndicate and Captain Marvel).

I’m a huge, huge, Damien Wayne fan, before Damien briefly became Red Bird, before the Robin costume had a hood, around the time the young Wayne beheaded one of Batman’s villains, and much like the Dark Knight, I’m at a complete lost for words. As a fan I’m intrigued by what’s possibly to come. With the debut of Carrie (the Robin from Frank Miller’s The Dark Knight Returns) as well as Harper Row’s recent appearance in Batman #18, there stands a reasonable chance that the next Robin, in all likelihood, will be of the XY chromosome. Unless Batman is successful in bringing Damien from the dead.

Writer: Gail Simone
Pencils: Daniel Sampere
Inks: Vicente Cifuentes
Number of Pages: 32
Price: 2.99
Color: Color
Safety Content Label: T+ TEENS AND UP – Appropriate for most readers 13 and up, parents are advised that they might want to read before or with younger children.

Publisher’s Blurb:
Will a battle of sibling rivalry lead to a death in the family?

Reviewer’s Comments:
The final showdown between brother and sister finally arrives in this new issue and secrets are revealed and a father and daughter’s trust is betrayed in this new issue.

Before Barbara goes to fight her brother for the final time, she and her roommate Alysia sit down and have a conversation about the past few months and each woman reveals a secret to the other.

Barbara tells Alysia about the Joker shooting her, the wheelchair, and her recovery to walk again. Then Alysia reveals her secret which has made big waves through out comic book fandom this week.

With her roommate warned about James, Barbara moves on to save her family…from her own brother. Little does she know that James has a surprise of his own in store for Barbara. Without giving it away, the final showdown between siblings happens on a rainy night on a Gotham bridge. One sibling won and the other lost…or did they?

I’m excited to see Gail Simone back writing Gotham’s heoric redhead who wears a cape and cowl. I loved the scripting of this issue, the plot is excellent and the conclusion to this story arc ends with a bang.

The artwork continues to be subperb with the stunning action scenes and the character interactions.

Batgirl has been a favorite of mine since the new 52 began and this issue is why series continues to be. I’m looking forward to what’s in store for Batgirl in the future.

The first volume of Chillers released last year was nominated for Best of the Year in both the Shel Dorf and Ghastly Awards and tabbed as the Best Anthology of 2012  by noted horror blogsite, Decapitated Dan. The debut book in the series also gained considerable praise with Ted Brown, reviewer for Comics Forge labeling it as “easily this is my favorite horror comic release of the year so far and will be very hard to dethrone maybe even impossible…”

The graphic novel continued in the tradition of the 1988 cult classic film Chillers from Troma Films,  written and directed by Boyd, an assistant professor of media studies at West Virginia State University.  “Our formula is simple: frighten and enlighten. Like Rod Serling taught us, beginning 53 years ago with The Twilight Zone, the best stories of the fantastic are those that say something,” he said. And after making more than 30 films in his career, telling stories in the graphic novel medium has been an exciting new experience for Boyd who describes the Chillers anthologies as a cross between the classic EC Comics and the powerful elements conveyed by  Serling in hisTwilight Zone tales.

“With the graphic novels of Chillers,  there is more of an immediate impact that has much more control,” Boyd said. “It allows all of the creators involved to frighten and entertain with unique stories linked by a common narrator.”   In addition to Boyd, the second installment ofChillers features several other accomplished horror writers, along with some of the bests artists from around the world.

Gary Reed, publisher of Transfuzion, said this second volume is not just a follow up to the first book, but rather just the next in the series.  “Each Chillers volume stands on its own, that’s one of the appealing aspects of anthologies,” he said.  “I think with the momentum of Troma re-releasing the Chillers film and the tribute album from the Buddy Black Band, Chillers is primed to continue its dark and twisted tales.”

In addition to Boyd, writers for the anthology include Robert Tinnell, Gary Reed, William Bitner, and more with art contributions from Andrew Dimmitt, Juan Romero, Ger Curti, Wayne Reid, S.R. Ayers,  and others.  Chillers Book 2 is available through the publisher, Tranfuzion (http://transfuzion.biz/), Amazon.com, and other national and regional outlets.

SEX, the story of a former superhero who hangs up his cape to pursue the kind of life he had forbidden himself, has been positively received by fans and critics alike. SEX #1 sold out instantly and is already into a third printing. Seems like comic fans can’t get enough of SEX!

Here’s a sampling of what people are saying about SEX #2

“With a nod towards Moore and Gibbons, SEX’s Casey and Kowalski have given us a modern superhero story with dash of retro, a splash of moral ambiguity, and a whole lot of naughty bits.”
- Conor Kilpatrick, iFanboy

“Joe Casey’s Sex continues to develop with a reserved yet highly enjoyable plot” – 9.2 out of 10
- Joshua Yehl, IGN

“You can expect sex inside these pages but read it through and you’ll see it’s a whole lot more ” – 5 stars
- Russel Johnson, Unleash The Fanboy

SEX #2′s second printing is available to order now (Diamond code FEB138644), and the third issue will be in stores on May 22.

Genre: Comic Book Podcast | Updates: Often | Duration: 70 minutes | Subscribe: RSS Feed

Show Note 1: Cocky Cosplay

Fans and critics agree, they love Nova!

“I’m very glad to see a good Nova book back on the stands” – Aint It Cool News

“Quite simply, this comic book is big screen wow.” – Comic Book Resources

“We’re off to a great start.” – ComicVine

“this is welcoming refreshment” – iFanboy

“It’s an all-around good time.” – IGN

“Nova is a dynamic entree for those looking to cruise Marvel’s spaceways.” – Newsarama

Each issue of Nova includes a code for a free digital copy on the Marvel Comics app (for iPhone®, iPad®, iPod Touch® & Android devices). Additionally, each issue of Nova features special augmented reality content available exclusive through the Marvel AR app – including cover recaps, behind the scenes features and more that add value to your reading experience at no additional cost.

So what are you waiting for? Head on over to your local comic shop and reserve a copy of Nova #4, today!

NOVA #4 (MAR130618)
Written by JEPH LOEB
Art & Cover by ED MCGUINNESS
FOC – 4/22/13, ON SALE – 5/22/13

NOVA #1 SECOND PRINTING VARIANT (JAN138312)
Written by JEPH LOEB
Art & Cover by ED MCGUINNESS
ON-SALE NOW!

NOVA #2 SECOND PRINTING VARIANT (FEB138449)
Written by JEPH LOEB
Art & Cover by ED MCGUINNESS
FOC – 4/8/13, ON SALE – 5/1/13

Jason Fabok is the current artist on Detective Comics. A Windsor native and graduate of St. Clair College, Fabok has also worked with David Finch on Batman: The Dark Knight and for Aspen Comics. Mr. Fabok was nice enough to speak with us.

TZ: How did you get your start in comics, Jason?

JB: I went to St. Clair College for animation program, and I knew I wanted to make a leap into comics when I was there but I didn’t think they had the proper training. I knew David Finch lived here in Windsor. So, I contacted him to see if he would teach me a few things, and that turned into about 6-8 months of lessons. From there, we created a portfolio, and he felt my work is strong enough. We sent it into DC, and I guess the rest is history.

TZ: What project at DC have you been most happy with?

JF: Right now, I am doing Detective, and I am really proud of that because it’s something I can really spread my wings on as the books progress and we do more stuff. John Layman’s been giving me more freedom with designs and my art. So, it’s fun to really express myself that way. One of the proudest things was working on Dave’s Dark Knight. To get to work on your mentor’s book really makes you feel like you’ve really made it.

TZ: You probably already had a fair amount of confidence going into it, I imagine.

JF: Yah but I had tight deadlines, and from that, I was offered a contract with DC, and it all came together from there

TZ: How did editorial approach you about doing annuals such as Justice League International and Batman?

JF: What happened was I signed a contract, and they didn’t have anything for me to work on right away. But, Mike Marts in the Batman office had faith in me that I would do a good job on those books, and I almost saw those books as a tryout. They had specific deadlines for me to get stuff done, and kind of tested me. I felt I proved I could do a monthly, and they gave me Detective right after that.

TZ: How was it like working with Scott Snyder?

JF: There’s a reason he’s one of the top writers at DC. He was very humbling, and wanted to work together as a team. He gave me a lot of freedom as well. I think when a writer has trust in you and allows you to express yourself artistically, that’s the best to work with. You seem to get a better product in the end.

TZ: How did they approach you afterwards to work on Detective?

JF: It was right after I had done the Batman annual, they had approached me if I wanted to do a big project. They said Detective but it was coming down the road. They gave me the JLI annual, and I wanted to get it done because I knew what was coming down the road. I felt honored that they had enough faith in me to give me one of their flagship books, and every month I think I am getting better and better. Right now, my confidence is up, and that’s all things you are looking for.

TZ: What was it like working with Dan and Geoff?

JF: It was different because they write very much in a Marvel style where it’s very little description of anything, and allows you to play around with the story. I find I like a little bit more of guidance in the way. But, it was cool because I got to try it, and see how I liked that style. It pushed me outside of my comfort zone so I had to think more visually about my storytelling.

TZ: What do you like about working with John Layman?

JF: We have a good rapport and good communication between each other. He asks me what I want to draw, and then he writes to my strengths. I think that’s why the book is working and selling. He knows I like big shots, big splashes and large artwork. You couldn’t ask for anything else, really.

TZ: What’s been your favorite villain to draw in the Bat universe?

JF: I’d have to say the Penguin which is a strange choice because he’s a goofy character. I’ve loved him since the old ‘60s television show, and he’s always been one of my favorites. It’s a fun character to draw, and I am trying to bring a bit more humanity to him. He’s definitely my favorite right now.

TZ: The main conflict in Detective right now has been between him and Oglivy. Is that going to reappear back in the books as a main conflict?

JF: He comes back big in issue 18, and Oglivy’s a lot of fun. I enjoy drawing that character, and fans seem to be connecting with him. When someone tries something different, people don’t like it at first but John slowly introduced that character throughout the different issues, and so he will becoming bigger and bigger.

TZ: What do you think Oswald’s feelings will be?

JF: That’s kind of the main plotline of issue 18. It’s kind of Penguin vs. Penguin. It’s a lot of fun, and one of my favorite issues to draw. Leading into 19 (900), and will be leading into the next issues.

TZ: Will Zsasz be appearing? I notice there are scratches and scars….

JF: He may be appearing.

TZ: What’s with the Man-Bats?

JF: At first, there wasn’t really any plan to do anything. They wanted the 900 to be a part of the story. I just finished drawing that issue, and it’s my favorite thing I have ever drawn. It is kind of that “go nuts on the art” book, and I am excited for people to read it.

TZ: It looks as if you are moving more towards scifi rather than the usual crime drama….

JF: It is but John’s done it so the story will have consequences in the next arc. He didn’t want it to feel like a total break in the story to throw you off.

TZ: What else do you have coming up?

JF: Finishing up Detective. Fan response has been pretty good so we are going to be moving into a next arc, and I am pretty excited to draw that.

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Tommy Zimmer is an upcoming writer of short stories, comic books, journalism/media reviews, screenplays, and anything related to writing. On zimmert101.wordpress.com, you can view his latest work, and see what exciting things he is currently doing!!

Tony Gray is the writer/artist behind Legacy Comic’s The Incredible Conduit. He is also the writer/artist behind white plastic and is a co-owner of the Windsor-based Legacy Comics. Mr. Gray was nice enough to speak with me back at the signing about his career and what’s coming up for him.

TZ: How did you get started in comics?

TG: I actually got started in comics watching the old Speed Racer cartoon as a kid. I started drawing, and drew a Donald Duck head. It looked like him, and everyone said it looked like him. My calling was found early. So, I started moving onto the superhero strips like Spiderman and the Spirit. I got involved, and my dad was a collector as a kid. It was part of our family thing where after hockey, my dad, my brother and I would head out to go to all the different convenience stores to find Spiderman at the lucky spot in town. When I look at every comic, I remember when we ended up at Kresge’s, and ate mashed potatoes and gravy.

TZ: What made you want to start Legacy?

TG: I was doing Saturday Afternoon, which was a daily and a Sunday strip. I also did a strip called Mick and Me. So, I pitched it to Marty Beneteau who was the editor of the Windsor Star, and I thought it would be cool to do a Windsor-based superhero like an old superhero strip. The company Legacy picked up the rights to publish the strips, and if they thought there was money to be made, I wanted a share. So, I bought part of Legacy Comics, and I am now part owner. I am doing The Conduit, White Plastic, The Feral Ones and Gray Matter.

TZ: How did you come up with the Conduit?

TG: I designed the character with the old Spiderman book. The costume was based around that look. His powers became based around the costume which I thought was really cool. It has like the Conduit symbol like an hourglass symbol which is a recycling of energy and power. The design of the costume sort of generated the power of the Conduit which is to absorb and generate energy whether it’s solar, hydro, electric, any kind….

TZ: How did you meet Mike Michalski?

TG: He was working at CTV, and he came up and covered a couple of the events I was at. I met him through that, and he’s a really talented writer full of great ideas. I was doing a storyline for Conduit #2 that took place at Chrysler, and one of his buddies was someone I sanctioned to draw by Chrysler. I actually used real people at Chrysler, and one of his friends said Mike Michalski’s a reader of your stuff. He and Al with the headphones were in it. They wanted to know the story ahead of time, and so they would take me out for free lunches.

TZ: What’s coming up next with The Conduit?

TG: At the end of issue #3, it becomes Tales of the Incredible Conduit. When I say an adult book, I don’t mean an adult book. It’s a more grown up book, and the art is more along the line of gray washes. He gets a new costume which amps up his powers, and he’s working with the government. It’s a lot bigger story than catching muggers.

TZ: It’s becoming more serious….

TG: It’s a bit more serious, and he’s a much more powerful character.

TZ: Was that because of the demographic switch?

TG: I was really surprised because I really just started The Conduit as a local lark, and it ended up where I was getting more and more mail. I thought I would listen to what the readers want, and they were asking to beef it up a little bit. Now, he’s like a hulking 6 foot 4 with powers ten times he had.

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Tommy Zimmer is an upcoming writer of short stories, comic books, journalism/media reviews, screenplays, and anything related to writing. On zimmert101.wordpress.com, you can view his latest work, and see what exciting things he is currently doing!!

O.G.RE Games has recently announced the Kickstarter for its first release: CineManiac, a unique, darkly humorous, card game played while watching your favorite horror movies. “Plot” cards are used in reaction to events happening on the screen to acquire points, while “Curse” cards interact with other players (for example, forcing them to reenact death scenes, or impersonate iconic horror villains). Movie night just got competitive.

The game’s lead designer, Ben Fisher, is the author or the critically acclaimed graphic novels Smuggling Spirits, Hexen Hammers, and Splitsville. The card art was drawn by comic book artist Mike Henderson, who has worked on Spider-Man, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Masks & Mobsters, and, currently, the comic adaptation of Cinemax’s Banshee.

Ben says he got the idea for CineManic while watching the horrendously bad “BloodRayne” with a friend. He suggested they make the movie watchable, to the extent such a thing is possible, by each writing down 10 things we expected to happen. For every correct guess, the other person had to drink. CineManic uses a very different set of rules, but the basic concept of incorporating the very social act of watching horror movies into a game was born.

Mike was the perfect choice to handle the art. His style can juggle both dark and morbidly funny with equal ability, and he loved the idea enough to work it into his busy schedule (which most recently includes drawing Marvel’s “Once Upon A Time” adaptation).

There are a few truly unique pledge options for the Kickstarter, including the option to have your likeness incorporated into the card art itself! You can back the project here: http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/ogregames/cinemaniac-horror-edition

Publisher’s Blurb:
Which one hero has the power to bring down all the Lantern Corps?

Reviewer’s Comments:
Things are not looking good for Hal, Sinestro or Simon for that matter with a gun pointed at his head. Sinestro quickly leaves Simon behind as he attends to more important matters: Korugar.

When he arrives, not everyone is happy to see him; everyone meaning Arsona. He tells her his plan to stop the First Lantern which involves militarizing his home planet. The Lantern stops him first however before he or Arsona can do anything. Making him relive many of his past memories, Sinestro sees it all flash before him making him remember his love for her. However, that’s short lived after she is immediately murdered right in front of his eyes, and in a two page spread, Korugar is blown to pieces. When Hal realizes Korugar has been destroyed and there are millions more dead arriving, he finally makes the tough decision committing suicide. In the meantime, Sinestro has given up willpower for what seems to be the fear he currently feels.

Geoff Johns does a bit of a cheat since last issue. The last splash page left the reader thinking Hal killed himself at the end but it’s not until the end of this episode it actually happens. The story mostly focuses on Sinestro’s return and his first fight with the First Lantern. It is actually pretty emotionally charged, and Johns nicely connects Hal’s suicide with Sinestro’s rebirth of fear. What culminates is a sad yet moving story.

Ardian Syaf and Szymon Kudranski continue their fill in duties with the former on the real world art and the latter on the Dead Zone art. Both are quite effective working on the book, and were welcome surprises since the last issue brought them on. Syaf easily handles the space stuff, and Kudranski does the Dead Zone quite beautifully as it works well with his style.

Next issue is Johns’ last issue, and I am a bit surprised how fast that flew by. No matter what, all will be well.

_____________

Tommy Zimmer is an upcoming writer of short stories, comic books, journalism/media reviews, screenplays, and anything related to writing. On zimmert101.wordpress.com, you can view his latest work, and see what exciting things he is currently doing!!

Publisher’s Blurb:
Do you dare ask who slayed the Stranger?

Reviewer’s Comments:
As The Phantom Stranger sits before the man he betrayed in a church, a priest approaches him. The priest knows when something is troubling someone. The problem for the Stranger is he cannot reveal about his problem truly to the priest as much as he may want to, and he promptly exits.

As the story’s prologue closes, the Stranger and his dog friend discuss mysticism and how it could possibly be the solution to the Strangers’ problems. Unfortunately, he says he does not want to hear of it but just wants to find his family. The Stranger is taken off course to meet reporter Jack Ryder, and see him die amidst a catastrophe involving the Challengers of the Unknown. However, Jack being the brave reporter he is goes out there to do what he does best. As the Stranger sees what happens to yet another person who crosses paths with him, he decides to ignore his dog friend, and go back to the heart of the matter: what happened to his family. As he arrives back at Mister Thirteen’s house, a question and a death await him…

Dan DiDio and JM DeMatteis continue to score in this series. The Stranger is not only an interesting character but becomes more interesting and deeper with each issue. The struggles are apparent within the crux of the character, and his story continues to make more and more left turns keeping things fresh.

Gene Ha seems to be the new series artist for now, and it’s a welcome stay. He gives the series a fresh new style that really works for it. He nails the supernatural aspects but also the real and larger than life events as well. I also like the little things he does with the Stanger’s eyes and reactions.

Hopefully, Ha stays on for a little, and I know unfortunately DiDio will leave soon but we will have DeMatteis which guarantees a good story. All in all, one of the better reads each first week of the month.
_____________

Tommy Zimmer is an upcoming writer of short stories, comic books, journalism/media reviews, screenplays, and anything related to writing. On zimmert101.wordpress.com, you can view his latest work, and see what exciting things he is currently doing!!

Congratulations to all of the winners and they are:

Chicago, Illinois – MIND WAVE COMICS is excited to announce it will exhibiting at C2E2 in the windy city, taking place April 26th-28th, 2013 at McCormick Place in Chicago!

“Con season 2013 is off to an awesome start and MIND WAVE is pumped to be returning to the windy city to be a part of C2E2 again!” exclaimed MIND WAVE COMICS Co-founder Dave Wheeler. Come by our tables and meet our creators, some of the latest and greatest talent in the field today.

Many of the MIND WAVE CREW will be on hand this weekend to sign, interview and sketch at Artist Alley tables K6 & K7

Samir Barrett (The Bolt Strikes, The Misadventures of Wonderboy)
Heidi Foland (Totem)
Kara Leopard (Madame Monster)
Joel Vollmer (Mechani-gal)
Dave Wheeler (The Bolt Strikes, The Misadventures of Wonderboy, Totem)

Fans who visit the booth will get the chance to pick up a C2E2 EXCLUSIVE MIND WAVE COMICS PRESENTS anthology showing off several up and coming titles coming soon from MIND WAVE COMICS.

In addition, a limited number of out of print books will be available for purchase!

See you at C2E2!

About MIND WAVE COMICS
Founded in 2010 by Dave Wheeler and Samir Barrett. Mind Wave Comics is the newest alternative, creator owned Comics Company on the scene. Creating comics for the young and young at heart Mind Wave prides itself on creating innovative stories with memorable characters included in titles such as The Bolt Strikes, The Misadventures of Wonderboy and TOTEM. Enough with the doom and gloom in comics, we’re bringing back the rad versus the bad!

We are providing some secret Arcade Brewery zombie swag, including a Tony Moore signed print and signed shotgun shells at this year’s ph Productions’ Zombie Pub Crawl on April 20th.

Come see us at this years C2E2! We will be on a Beer and Comics panel with Revolution, 3 Floyds, Goose, Barnaby Starve, CB Cebulski, Tony Moore and more! April 27th, 6:30-7:30 PM.

The brewery is moving along on schedule and are currently in review on our license. We can’t wait to get our brews in your hands!

This Saturday, we’ll be hosting our second monthly Brew and Tweet. The event will begin at 8:00 pm CST. Location? Basically anywhere you have access to Netflix Instant.

So, what is Brew and Tweet?

We, as a community, decide on a movie that’s playing on Netflix Instant. We use a Netflix Instant title, so more people have access.
Everyone who wants to participate presses play at 8:00 PM CST
We all tweet our comments (e.g. MST 3000) and also talk about the brews we have in hand. Don’t forget to hashtag #kiltscreen after each tweet so we can all follow the same feed.
If you missed the first Brew and Tweet. we watched Highlander to celebrate the William Wallace Wrestle Fest design competition. This week, we’ve selected a few movies that we think would be fun for the event and need your help deciding what we watch.

Here are the options for this month’s Brew and Tweet:

Evil Dead (1981)
During an unplanned stop at a remote cabin deep within the woods, a group of teens falls prey to a mysterious supernatural force. As his pals become possessed and turn into flesh-eating zombies, Ash Williams tries to keep his cool and save his skin.

Tremors (1990)
After a seismologist gets unusual readings on her equipment, handymen Val and Earl must save their town when they discover 30-foot-long carnivorous worms with a proclivity for sucking their prey underground.

Double Dragon (1994)
In earthquake-ravaged “New Angeles,” an evil tycoon holds half of the “Double Dragon,” a medallion that — when whole — will give him mystical powers. But two teen brothers possess the other half — and aren’t about to give it up without a fight.

The Thirteenth Floor (1999)
Two scientists have created a virtual reality 1930s Los Angeles so true-to-life that the occupants don’t know they exist only in a computer chip — until a homicide connects the parallel worlds of the simulated and the creators.

Shaolin Soccer (2001)
A down-on-his-luck ex-soccer player, injured during a rigged match, joins forces with a former monk to assemble an unlikely team of players — the monk’s awkward Shaolin brothers — harnessing the discipline and power of kung fu.

To vote, go to our Facebook Page this week and tell us what we should watch together this Saturday!

There’s only one thing that’s on the mind of the Superior Spider-Man when he encounters the heroes of the Marvel Universe…how can he beat them?! First on his list? The Avengers!

“Superior Spider-Man Team Up #1 takes fans across the entire Marvel Universe and pits Superior Spider-Man against heroes and foes you wouldn’t necessarily think he’d rub shoulders with,” explains Stephen Wacker, Senior Editor, Marvel Entertainment. “More and more people in the Marvel Universe are starting to sense a change in Spider-Man, and being able to see Chris put Spidey in those situations is going to have my inbox full of team-up requests! (So stay strong Songbird fans!”)

This July, Superior Spider-Month turns it up a notch as Yost and Lopez let loose in Superior Spider-Man Team-Up #1!

SUPERIOR SPIDER-MAN TEAM-UP #1
Written by CHRIS YOST
Art by DAVID LOPEZ
Cover by PAOLO RIVERA
ON SALE JULY 2013!

SEX, the story of a former superhero who hangs up his cape to pursue the kind of life he had forbidden himself, burst onto the scene in early March, with an exclusive edition of the first issue available only at Emerald City Comicon in Seattle. Its first printing, in stores on March 6, sold out the same week as its release and prompted praise from critics:

“…for as much as this title begs for the attention of being called a porno mag disguised as a comic book, it refrains from titillation in favor of creating a fascinating character study amongst a fully realized neo-noir world.”
- IGN

“For those looking for dazzling art and an interesting psychological drama, then definitely pick up Sex #1.”
- Bloody Disgusting

SEX #1′s third printing is available to order now (Diamond code FEB138534), and its second issue will be in stores on April 10.

Find out the answers to these questions and more as Marvel’s Fightin’ Fanboys brings you exclusive behind the scenes access to the WWE Universe’s biggest stars – only at Marvel.com [http://marvel.com/videos/watch/2698/fightin_fanboys_wrestlemania_29]!

Writer: Jimmy Palmiotti & Justin Gray
Pencils: Eduardo Pansica
Inks: Julio Ferreira
Colors: Jason Wright
Number of Pages: 25
Price: 2.99
Color: Color
Safety Content Label: T+ TEENS AND UP – Appropriate for most readers 13 and up, parents are advised that they might want to read before or with younger children.

Publisher’s Blurb:
Batwing quits—and what new member of the Batman family is ready to take his place?

Reviewer’s Comments:
Out with the old and in with the new as David’s story as the Batman of Africa comes to a close while a new Batwing’s story is just beginning. And David’s send off is a powerful, emotional, poignant,and an amazing one.

The story opens with David and the original dark knight at a grave in a cementary and Batman asks David if he’s sure of his decision David tells him that he didn’t come to this decision lightly as tears flow down his cheeks.

Flashback to a few days before and David in his Batwing suit-a gift that Matu left for him-and he’s out for blood. His first target is his former childhood friend Rachel who goes by the name Dawn. Batwing demands that she reveals where she’s stashed the spoiled rich kid Ancil, killer of many women. It’s a rough interrogation by Batwing but he gets his answers. He also gives Rachel a warning: leave Africa and never return.

Batwing locates Ancil and just in time as he’s about to kill another. In an electrifying fashion, David captures Ancil and moves on to his next target Ancil’s father Marksbury. Quietly and violently Batwing makes his way through Marksbury’s hounds until he’s face to face with the man. After a thorough beating, Batwing declares Marksbury’s business affairs over and he goes out with a bang, blowing up Marksbury’s ship along with Sky Pirate’s vessel.

David returns to the hospital and is at Matu’s beside as he passes. Before dying Matu tells David to take back his life. And David begins to do so by helping Kia capture Ancil and then quitting the police force. Flash forward to where the story started and we learned that his ‘decision’ was to quit being Batwing. We’re then briefly introduced to the new Batwing’s suit designed by Lucas Fox and the new Batwing himself Luke Fox.

This issue was what I’ve been waiting for. I’ve been reading Batwing since issue one and I knew that this book had potential but over time it was slowly losing it. But the last few issues written by Fabian Nicieza regained my confidence. And then this issue just sealed the deal for me.

I’m a fan of the writing duo of Palmiotti and Gray with their run of All-Star Western being a favorite of mine. The scripting was brilliant it captured everything just right. The artwork is fantastic. This is the right team for this book. I also have a feeling that though David isn’t the dark knight of Africa anymore, we haven’t seen the last of him.

Overall this was a fantastic issue. I’m excited for the future holds for the new Batwing.

Written by Eisner Award-winning writer Paul Jenkins (Spider-Man, Darkness, Sentry, Inhumans, Wolverine: Origin, Batman) and illustrated by art team Stellar Labs (Hulk, Superman, Power Girl, Cyber-Force, Heavy Metal)  the  TomorrowLand comics series follows two young stars who have become the public face of the Tomorrowland festival DJs Dimitri Vegas and Like Mike, as they are drawn into an impossible adventure to save the vital spark of creativity from the forces that would destroy it! Dimitri and Mike, two Belgian brothers, have been closely associated to the festival for the past few years and were the obvious choice to lead the way in this new Tomorrowland adventure.

The premise of the series is as follows:

 There are two worlds – the world we see, and the one we sense. The world we see is a harsh place: divided by wars and political extremism, religious fundamentalism and avarice. The world we sense hides in plain sight: you can see it in your peripheral vision, moving, vibrant. It’s a world of feeling, where art, music and science intertwine, where the written word is a powerful tool of creation.

 In these two worlds, we each carry two avatars – one embodying destruction, one connected to creation. This is the way of the universe. But creation and destruction wage an eternal war for the energy we carry inside us. It’s a war that we are rapidly losing…

“This is a chance to integrate a storyline into the festival itself,” says writer Paul Jenkins. “Those attending the show will see the comic elements appear around them and on stage scenes. The world of the graphic novel will come alive!”

“Paul Jenkins is one of our heroes,” say DJs Dimitri Vegas and Like Mike. “We loved working with him on this story and the way he brought this to the next level. We just created a new universe that we’re going to expand exponentially in the next few years!”

Tomorrowland #1 will hit comic stores on July 17, 2013. The series will also be available to read day and date on the iPad, iPhone, Web, Android and Kindle Fire, exclusively through the comiXology app and comiXology.com

Retailers can order Tomorrowland #1 from the April 2013 edition of Diamond PREVIEWS (Order code: APR131252).

Publisher’s Blurb:
The fallout from last month’s shocking turn of events has Batman on the run!

• Is The Dark Knight a murderer?

Reviewer’s Comments:
Like Jason Todd was at a turning point a few issues back in Red Hood, Bruce is at a crossroads. As he carries the tomb of his fourth son, he battles his son’s killer in a time before. Finally, Dick is knocked out ending the battle.

After the funeral, Alfred tries to console Bruce but he will have nothing of it sending Alfred on “a vacation.” Bruce is declaring vengeful war on Talia, Chris Burnham and Jason Master’s pages make that clear. Talia takes issue with the way Damian was dealt with, and the mayor of Gotham then declares Batman INC to be banned from the streets, Bruce to make himself available to authorities and Batman himself outlawed from Gotham. While Bat Cow gives Bruce temporary peace, he has a moment of angry silence as the issue comes to a close.

Grant Morrison plays with the ramifications of what has come to past. He plays the whole issue as a requiem really for what has just transpired. It is both shocking and saddening to read at the same time. He continues the mystery of it all by not revealing anything that will come next.

Chris Burnham and Jason Masters do some find work here. When Bruce stands in the rain and his eyes are closed in the clouds is some of the best work I have seen from the art team on the book. They play every scene out to its full potential, and leave you wanting more when the issue ends.

At the end of this issue, I am left baffled and anxious about what will happen next.

_____________

Tommy Zimmer is an upcoming writer of short stories, comic books, journalism/media reviews, screenplays, and anything related to writing. On zimmert101.wordpress.com, you can view his latest work, and see what exciting things he is currently doing!!

Publisher’s Blurb:

• Unknown to the Teen Titans, Red Robin’s condition is worsening after the events of “DEATH OF THE FAMILY.” And now Red Robin must face an even greater tragedy!

• The new Dr. Light is coming for Solstice!

• Guest-starring the Suicide Squad!

Reviewer’s Comments:
Tim Drake and Damian Wayne never saw eye to eye on anything really. It is perhaps one of the saddest points of the Bat family that they never really accepted one another. Worst yet, the two men never got to say good bye to each other or have a “last moment” like Dick and Damian had. Damian’s ghost visits Tim, and they have a moment where they finally accept one another as the book opens.

Tim’s eyes are pouring out in grief as Alfred comes into remind him he is not alone in this. Tim never being one to be alone (except when he thought Bruce was still alive while others didn’t) gladly accepts the love and kindness from Alfred. Superboy arrives to not much of a welcome reception. The team wants to keep their anonymity, and Superboy’s arrival kind of defeats the purpose of their boat. However, he is welcomed with open arms by Red Robin. They all meet in his bunker on the boat to discuss their plans to rescue a teenage superhuman from Belle Reve prison. While they battle Waller’s Suicide Squad, writer Scott Lobdell does another 360 with Tim Drake making it clear the Red Robin speaking to her is not the same from the beginning of the book. This continues to raise more questions for me as to when he is Tim Drake and the Trigon possessed Red Robin. Unless Trigon is living through the emotional moments of losing Damian which I find unrealistic but I tend to think the Red Robin suit is possessed. However, I am not certain. All I know is we will some answers next issue hopefully especially with the last page.

Scott Lobdell is finally focusing on the story he wants to tell without having to worry about stupid editorial mandated crossovers. The result is a much better focused story, and something he has left me hanging on a bit with questions. I am so glad to see him back on the straight laced path but hopefully, he will let me in on the secret of Trigon/Tim Drake.

Eddy Barrows is the king of this book. His art elevates every page of this book with each panel, the splashes and spreads. He is one of the best working in the business, and makes this book necessary on every reader’s pull list for the art alone.

These two are shooting on all cylinders, and the result is something impossible to ignore.
_____________

Tommy Zimmer is an upcoming writer of short stories, comic books, journalism/media reviews, screenplays, and anything related to writing. On zimmert101.wordpress.com, you can view his latest work, and see what exciting things he is currently doing!!

Genre: Comic Book Podcast | Updates: Often | Duration: 71 minutes | Subscribe: RSS Feed

Show Note 1: Wolverine Posters
Show Note 2: J.J. Abrams Superman
Show Note 3: Cocky Cosplay 1
Show Note 4: Cocky Cosplay 2
Show Note 5: Sexy “Cosplay”

“My fans know that I am a huge manga, and anime enthusiast, and I write in a very cinematic and visual manner in part due to my love of this medium,” Kagawa said. “With Bluewater, I get to participate actively in the creation of these works of art. That’s as exciting to me as creating my books in the first place.”

“We are really excited to be working with Julie and Indiegogo to transform her novels into a manga series, like they did with “Twilight”. The Iron King is a great novel that was made to be experienced visually. Said publisher Darren G. Davis “Not only are these comic books fun, but they can be used as a tool for reluctant readers.”

Bluewater and Kagawa will use Indiegogo to crowdsource $10,000 to attract the top talent necessary to produce four such a high-quality comic and graphic novel series. Starting today, fans can support this project at levels ranging from $10 to $2,500. Prizes range from comics, to mini clay “Chibi” sculptures handmade by Kagawa, to custom characterizations as comic cameos, dinners with the author, and more.

To see all the fabulously creative prizes go to: http://bit.ly/ZLl0Zh

Bluewater Productions has previously worked with bestselling novelists such as John Saul, SE Hinton and William Shatner to develop novel-based comic book series.

Bluewater Productions:
Bluewater is a full-service publishing and production company specializing in comic books, graphic novels and multimedia. Dedicated to pairing high-quality art with innovative storytelling, Bluewater creates a wide variety of intellectual properties that engage a growing readership and bridge the gap between comic books and the diverse multimedia marketplace. With more titles than ever, including smash hits such as the 10th Muse, VSS and The Legend of Isis, Bluewater has worked with many best selling novelists in developing comic book series. The company also has a line of biographical comics featuring The Beatles, Stephenie Meyer, JRR Tolkien, Justin Bieber, etc.



About Julie Kagawa
Julie Kagawa is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the award-winning Iron Fey and Blood of Eden series. Born in Sacramento, California, she moved to Hawaii at the age of nine. There she learned many things: how to body board, that teachers scream when you put centipedes in their desks and that writing stories in math class is a fantastic way to kill time. Her teachers were glad to see her graduate. Julie now lives near Louisville, Kentucky, with her husband and a plethora of pets. She still laughs whenever she sees a centipede. For more information on Julie visit JulieKagawa.com.

With the epic events of PLANET DEATH currently rocking the Valiant Universe, don’t miss the essential prelude that launched Valiant’s premier hero off-world and into a one-man crusade against an entire alien planet in the X-O Manowar #10 Second Printing Variant by New York Times best-selling writer Robert Venditti and comics superstar Trevor Hairsine! Start reading here to get in on the ground floor of the most ambitious X-O Manowar story ever attempted on April 17th – the same day X-O Manowar #12 arrives in stores!

Then, in the aftermath of the Harbinger Wars’ first firefight, meet the man with his finger on the trigger in the Harbinger #0 Second Printing Variant – an indispensable standalone tale of Toyo Harada’s origins by New York Times best-selling author Joshua Dysart and acclaimed artists Mico Suayan and Pere Perez! Look for it in stores on May 1st – alongside Valiant’s next standalone zero issue, Shadowman #0 by Justin Jordan and Roberto De La Torre!

This spring, the story starts here! Jump into two of Valiant’s most exciting, sold-out storylines with the X-O Manowar #10 Second Printing Variant and the Harbinger #0 Second Printing Variant – coming soon to finer comics shops everywhere!

X-O MANOWAR #10 SECOND PRINTING VARIANT (FEB138333)
Written by ROBERT VENDITTI
Art & Cover by TREVOR HAIRSINE
$3.99/T+/32 pgs.
ON SALE 4/17/13 (FOC – 3/25/13)

HARBINGER #0 SECOND PRINTING VARIANT (FEB138429)
Written by JOSHUA DYSART
Art by MICO SUAYAN & PERE PEREZ
Cover by MICO SUAYAN
$3.99/T+/32 pgs.
ON SALE 5/1/13 (FOC – 4/8/13)

Pilot Studios is picking up where Earthbound Comics left off, publishing its longest running title, The Longhunters, starting with the latest issue, Longhunters #4!

The Longhunters is a frontier epic revolving around a group of mountain men wandering the untamed North American landscape of the early 1800′s! Their stories are tales of America and our writers and artists work hard to mix authentic history with fictional adventure; presenting a violent and dramatic world of Native Americans, rogue military officers and invasive settlers. The Longhunters sets itself apart from the normal Superhero, Western and SciFi genres, and makes its mark as one of the few Frontier books on the stands and easily one of the best.

This fourth issue of the series features a wrap-around cover by Fubar, Winter War, and The Stars artist Kurt Belcher, along with inker Victor Moya and
colors by Chuck Michael Obach. The Longhunters #4 also features art by Ben Ferrari, story by Buck Weiss, and letters by Ken Lateer.

Pilot Studios is a Small Press comic book company, putting out over 20 high quality comics from online distributor Indyplanet.com and digitally with Drivethrucomics.com for over 3 years. Along with The Longhunters, Pilot Studios is proud to continue publishing The Stars, as well as the upcoming Kurt Belcher’s WORLD #1 anthology one-shot, Son Chasers and Flagship & Armada.

Cartoon Network’s powerhouse series will debut its first comic book series next month,hot on the heels of KaBOOM!’s smash hit adaptation of another popular Cartoon Network comedy series, ADVENTURE TIME! The new comics will follow the antics of Mordecai, a blue jay, and Rigby, a raccoon, a couple of best bros in their twenties just tryin’ to chill for a bit, man. But when you’re livin’ in as crazy a world as they are, no day can be called…regular!

The highly-anticipated series will be written by web cartoonist KC Green (GUNSHOW) and illustrated by newcomer Allison Strejlau. REGULAR SHOW #1 ships with main covers by Nick Edwards (ADVENTURE TIME), Nathan Fox (X-MEN: SECOND COMING), Phil McAndrew (CRYING IN FRONT OF YOUR DOG AND OTHER STORIES, ADVENTURE TIME), John Allison (BAD MACHINERY, ADVENTURE TIME: MARCELINE AND THE SCREAM QUEENS), Brian Butler, and Chuck BB (BLACK METAL). Ask your retailer about the pre-order variant by Chris Houghton (ADVENTURE TIME, REED GUNTHER) and the incentive variant by Dustin Nguyen (BATMAN, LI’L GOTHAM)! Additionally, a commemorative boxed set of all six main covers will be available for collectors.

REGULAR SHOW #1 is a 32 page, full color issue that retails for $3.99 and is available for order under Diamond Code FEB130826. The REGULAR SHOW #1 COMPLETE COVER BOX SET contains REGULAR SHOW #1 Covers A-F in a shrink-wrapped commemorative box that retails for $24.99 and is available for order under Diamond Code FEB130829.

The best-selling debut of Hickman-penned Image Comics series to date, EAST OF WEST #1 introduces readers to a world on the verge of collapse where incarnations of the Horsemen of the Apocalypse roam a sprawling landscape and all signs point to an inglorious end.

In contrast to the spiraling fate of humankind depicted in its pages, the beginning of EAST OF WEST has been a critical triumph:

“East of West is astonishing. Something that may reset the bar by which all other comics are tested.”
– Crave Online (10/10 review)

“Hickman accomplishes here what other writers might spend a whole series building up, which leaves the door wide open for this imaginative story to go east and west and then north and south, to boot.”
– IGN

“The series is still new, but I wonder whether it’s a glimpse at our nation’s sins made manifest. A bald depiction of the scarlet letter forever branded on America, not for adultery, but for human bondage and derision. Or maybe it’s just a cool, nihilistic revenge saga.”
– iFanboy (Pick of the Week)

“…this is a comic that could just possibly blow your mind.”
– Comic Vine (5/5-star review)

Jason Coffee

When did you first meet Jason?

I met Jason during our first week in college in 1993. We were both film majors at Northwestern University in Chicago. I met him in a stairwell on the way up to an orientation meeting. I can still remember he was wearing a Jurassic Park T-shirt that said “Rap Attack” on it. I also remember he was anxiously waiting for his TV to be shipped to him so that he could catch the premiere of Seaquest DSV.

What made you decide to bring Jason’s project to life in the form of comics?

Jason loved two things: sci-fi and comics. He had a huge comic book collection and always had comics posters on his walls. When you read his short stories or screenplays, most of them have a comic book feel.  His screenplay Warhawks is about a team of cyborg superheroes. If we wanted to make it as a movie, it would have cost 200 million dollars. We still hope that someday Jason Coffee’s Warhawks will end up on the silver screen, but making a comic seemed like a great first step that we, as his friends, could achieve.

Warhawks Issue #1 Cover

What was the process of putting together a team, and trying to obtain the funds necessary for this project?  

The team is made up of a group of Jason’s friends who all live in Los Angeles. We started meeting after Jason passed away to see how we could fulfill his last request, which was for his voice to be heard. In the beginning, we were funding it ourselves, but as we learned everything that is involved in creating and publishing a comic, we realized we would need to raise additional funds. We’re glad that Kickstarter came along, because it’s the perfect way to fulfill our mission. While we raise money for the project, we are simultaneously spreading Jason’s creative voice around the world.

Billy Tan is doing the cover, and Joel Gomez (former Wildstorm staff artist and assistant to Jim Lee) is doing the interior artwork for issue one. How did they become involved?

Cover Artist Billy Tan

None of us on the team had any experience making comics, but Jason’s friend Tom Cohen (no relation to me) knew some people in the industry.  He was able to connect us with a former Marvel Comics editor who suggested possible artists for the cover. One them was Billy Tan.  I contacted Billy and he immediately responded to our story. We were so excited that an artist of Billy’s caliber was willing to draw the cover. The fact that in between working on X-Men and Green Lantern, Billy took the time to do this awesome cover for Warhawks would have made Jason very happy.

Once we had our cover, we started looking for an interior artist. Billy recommended we contact Joel Gomez, who had done some assistant penciling for him in the past.  Again, we were fortunate to have such a great artist agree to work with us. Joel’s visual storytelling is amazing, but beyond that, he has become our mentor in the comics industry.  In the weeks leading up to our first convention, WonderCon, Joel has been telling us everything we need to do to prepare. We couldn’t have done it without him.

WARHAWKS is originally a screenplay, is it the desire of you and your friends to get Jason’s story eventually on the big screen?

Our goal is for the comic to become an ongoing series by bringing in other writers and artists to tell their own stories with the characters and universe Jason created. That would be awesome. But our even bigger goal is to fulfill his ultimate dream, which was for Warhawks to become a blockbuster movie, the kind of movie Jason would have lined up for on opening weekend.

When will issue one be available and where can people get it?

The plan is for Issue One to be completed early this summer. Distribution will initially be online and at comic book conventions.  Sometime after that, we hope to have it on the shelf at your local comic book store.

You all will be at WonderCon this weekend, can you let readers know where they can find you at the con and will you also be attending any other cons this year?

We will be at table 76 in the small press area. We hope people will come by to say hello and get to know the Warhawks universe by picking up a free copy of our preview comic for Issue One.

We are on the waitlist for ComiCon, and are hoping to find a way to exhibit there. We are also looking at Long Beach, Phoenix, and Las Vegas. Jason’s hometown was Atlanta, so we also hope to hit Dragon*Con either this year or next.

What is one thing that you would like readers to know about Jason?

You expect your friends to be the people you grow old with. Losing Jason at such a young age was a shock to us all. I would like people to know that Jason was an intensely passionate fan and writer of sci-fi and comics. In college, when everybody else was writing comedies or sensitive dramas, he was writing his science fiction blockbusters. I watched him have to defend sci-fi as a valid art form, and he never wavered. Never one to self-promote, Jason worked slowly and meticulously toward his dream of writing science fiction that would be seen and read by people around the world.  If he had lived, I have no doubt that today you would be watching a movie or television show that he wrote. Talent and passion eventually win out, and Jason Coffee had large amounts of both.

Each issue of Avengers includes a code for a free digital copy on the Marvel Comics app (for iPhone®, iPad®, iPod Touch® & Android devices). Additionally, each issue of Avengers features special augmented reality content available exclusive through the Marvel AR app – including cover recaps, behind the scenes features and more that add value to your reading experience at no additional cost.

This April, Hickman and Deodato show readers why “adaptation” is the scariest word in the Marvel Universe – only in Avengers #10!

For more on Marvel NOW!, please visit now.marvel.com and join the conversation on Twitter using #MarvelNOW.

AVENGERS #10 (FEB130501)

Written by JONATHAN HICKMAN

Art by MIKE DEODATO

Cover by DUSTIN WEAVER

FOC – 4/1/13, ON-SALE – 4/24/13

Valiant is proud to present an advance preview of Archer & Armstrong #0 from the New York Times best-selling creative team of Fred Van Lente (Amazing Spider-Man) and Clayton Henry (Harbinger Wars)! On May 8th, join Valiant’s immortal wayfarer, Armstrong, for a trek into the distant past in a special standalone tale of dinosaurs, robots, mad kings, and mortal combat that also sets the stage for “Far Faraway” – the next great arc of A&A beginning this June in Archer & Armstrong #10!

Here, for the first time, the one hundred percent true story of the Epic of Gilgamesh can finally be told… A tale of three warriors, the adventuring Anni-Padda – three immortal brothers that would one day roam the Valiant Universe as Armstrong, the Eternal Warrior, and the mysterious Timewalker – on a quest from the city-state of Ur to the mythical Faraway to recover the Boon… And their sword-swinging conquest of a land beyond time itself… A land inhabited by man-eating brutes, futuristic technology, and perhaps the greatest secret in all of the Valiant Universe!

On May 8th, start reading here to begin the adventures of Valiant’s gallant immortals – then be back in 30 for Archer & Armstrong #10, the FIRST ISSUE of the brand new story arc, “Far Faraway”! Ten millennia on, what could bring Armstrong and his new partner back to the land of the Faraway? Begin the adventure that will bring past and future full circle this May in Archer & Armstrong #0!

Far Faraway – Prelude:
ARCHER & ARMSTRONG #0
Written by FRED VAN LENTE
Art & Cover by CLAYTON HENRY (MAR131324)
Pullbox Exclusive Cover by LEE GARBETT (MAR131325)
Wraparound Gatefold Variant by TOM FOWLER (MAR131326)
$3.99/T+/32 pgs.
ON SALE 5/8/13 (FOC – 4/15/13)

Far Faraway – Part 1 (of 4):
ARCHER & ARMSTRONG #10
Written by FRED VAN LENTE
Art by PERE PEREZ
Cover by CLAYTON HENRY (APR131281)
Pullbox Exclusive Variant by JUAN DOE (APR131282)
8-Bit Variant by MATTHEW WAITE (APR131283)
Variant Cover by ANDREW ROBINSON (APR131284)
ON SALE 6/6/13 (FOC – 5/13/13)

C2E2 WELCOMES NEW COMICS PUBLISHERS TO ANNUAL
POP CULTURE EVENT

First Time Exhibitors to Bring Brand-New Artists, Writers
and Stories to Show!

Norwalk, CT, March 26, 2013: Officials at the Chicago Comic & Entertainment Expo (C2E2) have announced that there will be many new and fresh faces at the annual pop culture extravaganza this year. Several notable comics publishers will be exhibiting at the show for the first time. They will be joining other leading publishers, such as Marvel and DC Entertainment, who have helped to make C2E2 the preeminent pop culture event in the Midwest since its debut in 2010. Officials are projecting that exhibitor space at C2E2 will be approximately 25 percent larger than last year! A few of the creative and innovative new companies on hand this year will be Action Lab Entertainment, Athleta Comics and Lion Forge Comics. In addition, Reload Comics and 2000 AD/Rebellion will be at C2E2 for the first time promoting their widely popular properties and titles.

In addition to Marvel and DC, some other returning publishers include Anomaly Productions, Archaia, Avatar Press, Big Dog Ink, Boom! Studios, Dark Horse, Medallion Press, Quirk Books, Valiant Entertainment, Xigency Studios and Zenescope Entertainment. All these publishers will have new comic books and stories to reveal at C2E2 and they will have fresh, original artwork to display in their booths. DC Entertainment has provided the original poster art for this year’s show which features Superman in an iconic Chicago setting. The Marvel booth will be centrally located on the show floor where fans will have the opportunity to mix and mingle with creators and staff. Many of the publishers will also be participating in panels, providing show exclusives, and will be bringing their top talent to meet the thousands of fans on hand at C2E2.

As noted, C2E2 has quickly become the largest and most influential pop culture event in the Midwest. It attracted just over 27,000 fans when it was launched in 2010 and grew to over 41,000 fans last year. While it is impossible to project attendance for 2013, convention officials note that ticket sales are running between 85% – 95% ahead of the same time last year, virtually guaranteeing that this will be the most widely attended C2E2 to date. This year’s C2E2 will take place April 26 – 28 in the West Building at McCormick Place Convention Center.

“The fact that we have so many really cool first time publishers signing up for our show is the best news I could possibly be sharing,” notes Lance Fensterman, Global Vice President for ReedPOP and Show Manager for C2E2. “Presenting new original content and being able to provide fans an opportunity to meet artists and creators who they have never met before is the lifeblood of what we do! We want to provide a home where our new customers feel instantly happy and productive and where our fans come away feeling like they have ‘discovered’ something. I am hugely grateful to all the publishers who have decided to join us for the first time this year and I know our fans will do everything they can to make C2E2 a great experience for them.”

Examples of the various projects that some of these publishers will be promoting at C2E2 include:

Action Lab Entertainment, publisher of the 2012 two-time Eisner nominated Princeless, will be at C2E2 to introduce their lineup of creator-owned comics. They will be presenting at the Diamond Retailer Summit and will talk about Jamal Igle’s Molly Danger, NFL Rush Zone, Jeremy Dale’s Skyward, Princeless, Vamplets: Nightmare Nursery, Pirate Eye and their new Mature Readers line called Action Lab: Danger Zone.
Athleta Comics is owned by Israel Idonije, the longtime defensive player for the Chicago Bears. Mr. Idonije will be coming to C2E2 to promote his first comic project The Protectors. Idonije was inspired to create The Protectors when he had an idea for a superhero who would appeal to both comic book enthusiasts and die-hard sports fans. He has teamed up with the creative team of writer Ron Marz and artist Bart Sears and Idonije, Marz and Sears will be at the Athleta booth throughout the show and will participate in a panel!

Lion Forge Comics will unveil its two latest publications on Saturday, April 27 at C2E2. Former Playboy 2011 Playmate of the Year has partnered with Lion Forge on the use of her image and story line for Wonderous: The Aventures of Claire Sinclair. Actor Flex Alexander has collaborated with Lion Forge on a cyber-thriller comic called The Joshua Run. Alexander notes: “I am very excited to be a part of C2E2 this year. This is big for me because I grew up a comic book fan and collector. I can’t wait for everyone to get into the world of The Joshua Run. It is going to be an amazing ride!”

United Kingdom publisher Reload will be making their first U.S. convention appearance at C2E2. They will promote their flagship title, Jericho, which was created by Fwah Storm, self-described as a “musician, magician, poet, illustrator, a proud member of Reload Comics and so much more!” Storm notes that Reload will be bringing their books, merchandise and promotional material (along with some other goodies!) to C2E2.

The staff at 2000 AD/Rebellion note: “After hearing such good things about C2E2, we knew exactly where we’d be spreading the 2000 AD Thrill-power! We’ll be promoting our North American line of collections – from classics such as Judge Dredd and Sláine the Barbarian, to more modern titles like Leviathan and Zombo – as well as bringing a few little British treats across for fans new and old! We’ll also have a great panel on the Friday evening at 7:45pm with several top names that will be very familiar to US audiences! We can’t wait to get to Chicago and introduce new readers to the amazing galaxy of characters from 2000 AD!”

Tickets for C2E2 are currently on sale at www.C2E2.com. Anyone interested in exhibiting at the Chicago Comic & Entertainment Expo should contact Larry Settembrini, Larry@ReedPOP.com. As noted, more guests and activities will be announced in the month ahead and fans should keep their eyes on C2E2’s website for additional comics and entertainment announcements.

ABOUT REEDPOP: ReedPOP is a boutique group within Reed Exhibitions which is exclusively devoted to organizing events, launching and acquiring new shows, and partnering with premium brands in the pop culture arena. ReedPOP is dedicated to producing celebrations of popular culture throughout the world that transcend ordinary events by providing unique access and dynamic personal experiences for consumers and fans. The ReedPOP portfolio includes: New York Comic Con (NYCC), Chicago Comic & Entertainment Expo (C2E2), Penny Arcade Expo (PAX) Prime & East, Star Wars Celebration, and the UFC Fan Expo. In 2013 ReedPOP will add Star Wars Celebration Europe and PAX Australia to its rapidly expanding portfolio of international events. The staff at ReedPOP is a fan based group of professionals producing shows for other fans, thus making them uniquely qualified to service those with whom they share a common passion. ReedPOP is focused on bringing its expertise and knowledge to world communities in North America, South America, Asia and Europe.

Publisher’s Blurb:
Jason Todd suffered terribly at the hands of The Joker in “DEATH OF THE FAMILY,” and now he’s changing the Outlaws’ mission!

• Something is bound to break with all that’s happened…will it be Jason’s soul

Reviewer’s Comments:
Red Hood and the Outlaws #18 marks a historic turn for Jason Todd. He has been through a lot but nothing prepared him (or me really) for what would transpire in this issue.

Jason is in a sort of coma since what happened when he put his helmet back on. The Joker placed acid in it, and if Bruce had not saved him, he might have never survived. Writer Scott Lobdell plays with everything he has written for the character from the beginning of the series up until now. Ducra returns making herself known to Jason in his head. As he battles to maintain control, Ducra makes some comparisons of Jason to the Joker, and this upsets him greatly. He is already reminiscing about what he was in his mind, and he doesn’t need a spirit telling him of what he is or was. He is confronted with his demons here, what he never wanted to be and the hatred people have for him. He is mentally able to overcome it when Bruce saves him in his mind, and then the story transitions to the end of his time as Wingman. Jason is broken up about failing Bruce again (probably for not being able to save Damien), and things change in a great way from here. Lobdell goes for the reader’s heart, and upon first read, one will definitely cry if not upon multiple reads. This is one of the penultimate moments in Jason Todd’s life, and for any Todd fans, this is required reading from now on.

From a crime epic to a space epic to a biography of a man’s life, Lobdell has been able to move the plots forward with character driven stories into places as different as Gotham City and Tamaran. He should not only be commended for his brave writing but also his strong choices in character turns for the Outlaws Trio. It is bitter sweet that Lobdell ends here but hopefully James Tynion IV lives up to the example Lobdell has set on the series.

Tyler Kirkham fills in for this issue, and does a spectacular job. He easily transitions from the mental scenes Jason finds himself in to the scenes where he is in bed with Bruce and Alfred waiting in the wings for his recovery. This is definitely some of his best work, and it makes me wonder why he did not take over the book earlier.

With that, I cannot say anything else but that readers will be quite surprised at what happens from beginning to end…. Mico Suayan’s gorgeous cover is definitely a mislead.
_____________

Tommy Zimmer is an upcoming writer of short stories, comic books, journalism/media reviews, screenplays, and anything related to writing. On zimmert101.wordpress.com, you can view his latest work, and see what exciting things he is currently doing!!

Publisher’s Blurb:

• All-new digital adventures in print for the first time!

• Following the events of “Flashdrive,” the new-look Justice League encounters an old ally!

• As the Trillians and Mangals prepare for battle, Superman is forced to choose sides!

• Plus: Don’t miss the shocking revelations in BATMAN BEYOND that are sure to impact Terry and Dana’s relationship forever!

Reviewer’s Comments:
Batman Beyond Unlimited #14 marks one of the biggest changes in Terry McGinnis’ life, complication in what Superman thought of the Trillian situation he finds himself in and a whole new threat about to be unleashed on the future Justice League. The real question is: what does this mean for the future of the title?

The epilogue to the recent “10,000 Clowns” finds itself in the form
of “Legends of the Dark Knight: Dana”. Writer Adam Beechen picks a very appropriate time to shed the spotlight on Dana given all she has actually been through in the recent issues of the series. She has lost a brother and nearly her father, and it seems appropriate that the finish would focus on her because the whole arc was really about her, wasn’t it? Or was it about Terry? Thinking back, I really see it as a two pronged approach that was taken to both characters. When I interviewed Mr. Beechen back in November, he told me things would change but I didn’t nearly expect what he was going to do here.

The story’s opening finds Dana dancing as she has often been seen with her time on the television screen when the animated series used to run. She was always dancing but why exactly? That question was never exactly answered, and it was just supposed she was a teenager. However, it is made clear here there is a reason for what she does. She is able to block out the rest of the world, and focus on getting some time to herself. It is quite unfortunate she goes to these lengths but with all the mess her brother caused she and her family, she does not have much other choice especially with Terry being weirdly absent all the time. Beechen sheds light on how life was for Dana growing up and how she was with her brother. She feels she might have failed him as a sister, not been there enough for him. That is extremely sad, and given what transpired, it definitely makes one reflect on their difficult times with their families. Dana eventually takes Terry away from the situation to see her father, and then confront Bruce Wayne. What transpires next is something I never saw coming….. I am rarely surprised in comics these days, and this was one of two moments last week where I was surprised. Beechen’s decision to place that as the ending was genius, and while I don’t want to spoil it for anyone, it completely changes the dynamic for future ‘Beyond’ stories.

Meanwhile, JT Krul is putting Kal Kent through the political ringer. Superman has found himself in a situation caused from his own hand, and Krul’s genius is in there bringing Superman back to see the repercussions of his actions. Superman easily escapes with the help of some Mangals but he is not too happy with their decision to fight the Trillians. Superman has gained sympathy for those he caused so much harm to; at least, he thinks that. He sees the Trillians having been treated terribly by the Mangals who were able to seize power. Krul is able to place Superman back in as the mediating force to solve the crisis which is quite smart. However if Kent made a bad decision before, what is preventing him from making another bad one again? That’s the question ringing through readers minds right now especially when Superman gives the Mangals sometime to explain what has been going on with them, and he learns that maybe he was wrong in thinking the Trillians are so pure in the first place.

Derek Fridolfs brings the Justice League nearly to the breaking point against Mindslide, a new villain with some mysterious connections. He singlehandedly is able to take down the League unfortunately, and it is up to the new Flash to take him down. What’s interesting which Fridolfs does here is he has the voices of all the previous Flashes (including Wally for those worried) speaking to her about what she should do, where she should do it, etc. It is quite an interesting dynamic and take on the speed force I have not really encountered before with a Flash character, and it is cool to see something fresh become present here. It just creates more ideas for me about how this Flash character became what she was. Finally, Superman recruits her into the League as a part of what Fridolfs’ goal in opening up the ranks. It will be interesting as he explores this world further to see who else he recruits, and certainly the ending is something I will not spoil but definitely leaves the doors open possibly to another huge arc as what came before.

Adam Beechen handles these ‘Legends’ stories quite well, and he always makes them important to the overall depth and meaning behind the stories he tells. This one is no different with Dana. I haven’t been as nearly excited for this comic (given the consistency in quality) as I have been since I put this story down. What comes next for Dana and Terry is really going to be interesting, and what’s next with Max is anything but clear. So much has been left unsaid, and it creates nothing but a good mystery.

Peter Nguyen gives Norm Breyfogle a break this issue. Nguyen delivers some fantastic art, quite reminiscent of Dustin Nguyen’s style. He maintains the quality present in the series, and delivers some fantastic and unique stuff. If BB needs a fill in artist ever, he should be at the top of the call list.

JT Krul continues to keep the political situation interesting by flipping the tables this issue. He adds more depth to the dialogue going on between Superman and the two groups, and keeps the reader on the edge of their seat as to what will come next. Regardless, it creates for a fascinating situation with Howard Porter continuing to deliver top notch art along with inker John Livesay. This is a team that keeps you glued to the book each time.
Derek Fridolfs delivers a satisfying conclusion to his quick two part story. He adds more and more to this new Flash character which makes her quite different setting her a part from the different Flashes that have come before. The villain is quite interesting even though we only saw him for two issues. It will be interesting to see where things go for here with what comes to pass at the end.

Jorge Corona does some nice work here again keeping true to the animated series style but also putting his own spin on it. What is unclear is where Dustin Nguyen has been…. Maybe, he is leaving the series or perhaps, he took two issues off. Perhaps, we will find out soon.

Regardless, I cannot complain about anything. I have been a lifelong ‘Beyond’ fan, and am always glad to spend $3.99 on this book.
_____________

Tommy Zimmer is an upcoming writer of short stories, comic books, journalism/media reviews, screenplays, and anything related to writing. On zimmert101.wordpress.com, you can view his latest work, and see what exciting things he is currently doing!!

Publisher’s Blurb:
As white as snow follows young Scarlett and her first encounters with her nemeses Vincent and Pumpkinface.

Through coincidence and misadventure Scarlett bumps into Vincent and Pumpkinface. Scarlett though is about to find out their fates are already tied together as clues to Vincent’s past are revealed.

Reviewer’s Comments:
The tale of Creepy Scarlet continues with this issue. We learn the story of how Scarlet came to the church and the pastor who raises her to fight against the minons of evil.

Scarlet first encounters Vincent and Pumpkinface and we learn how she got Mr. Ted and where her love of candy came from.

The plot was scripted well and the art is fantanstic. I enjoyed reading about this supernatural quirky lady. I look forward to more stories of Creepy Scarlet.

Tell us what you think at 239-244-2899 and leave us a voicemail or tweet @fanboybuzz.com!

Genre: Comic Book Podcast | Updates: Often | Duration: 32 minutes | Subscribe: RSS Feed

Show Note 1: DC Super Image
Show Note 2: JS Cocky Cosplay
Show Note 3: We Eat The Batman
Show Note 4: Chris Ferrell Fans United

Tell us what you think at 239-244-2899 and leave us a voicemail or tweet @fanboybuzz.com!

Genre: Comic Book Podcast | Updates: Often | Duration: 44 minutes | Subscribe: RSS Feed

Show Note 1: JS news
Show Note 2: Scott Obama Thing

Each issue of Superior Spider-Man includes a code for a free digital copy on the Marvel Comics app (for iPhone®, iPad®, iPad Touch® & Android devices). Each issue of Superior Spider-Man features special augmented reality content available exclusive through the Marvel AR app – including cover recaps, behind the scenes features and more that add value to your reading experience at no additional cost.

An internal war between good and evil hangs in the balance, and it all leads up to one unbelievably heartbreaking surprise – only in Superior Spider-Man #8!

SUPERIOR SPIDER-MAN #8 (FEB130537)
Written by DAN SLOTT
Art & Cover by HUMBERTO RAMOS
FOC- 03/25/13 On-Sale – 04/17/13

The Expo is set to debut on Friday and Saturday, March 29 and 30, at the Granada Avenue Gymnasium, 30 E. Granada Avenue in Hershey, Pennsylvania.

The show will present the world of music, comics, movies, television, toys and more, with a showroom packed with over 100 exhibitor spaces.

Numerous vendors will be buying, selling and trading a variety of antique, vintage and popular culture collectibles, such as DVDs, posters, books, magazines, comics, trading cards, art, crafts, jewelry, apparel, toys, games, lunchboxes, advertising items, CDs, vinyl albums and singles, antique cash registers, jukeboxes, gumball machines, pinballs, and antique arcade games.

The event is being organized by USA Theatres, which operates a portable drive-in and outdoor movie theatre in Central Pennsylvania.

“All of the events that we organize exhibit the retro factor,” said Ronald M. Vastola, Outreach Coordinator for USA Theatres.

Special guests including Bronson Pinchot (best known as Balki Bartokomous on the ABC sitcom Perfect Strangers), Butch Patrick (best known as Eddie Munster on the 1960s hit television series The Munsters), and model Cassandra Lynn, will all be on hand signing autographs and meeting fans, in addition to several other special guests.

“Many actors and most movie stars — show audiences versions of themselves onscreen, which is cool if you can pull it off. Since I’ve been a character actor all my life, being merely myself seems like something of a giant leap, both to myself and the audience… And I love it,” Pinchot said.

Pinchot currently stars on The Bronson Pinchot Project, a home renovation show on the DIY Network. Each episode features Pinchot and his crew of local contractors renovating another room at one of his properties in Harford, Pennsylvania.

“There is also a fair amount of teaching I do on the show, but not in a forced way, more in a ‘spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down’ style… And since I’m doing it through my homeboy-carpenters, who are all rural Pennsylvania guys, it doesn’t seem preachy.”

Pinchot said he is looking forward to coming to Hershey and meeting fans.

“As always, I’ll happily do the Balki accent for anyone over 80, as long as I can whisper it to them,” he added.

Butch Patrick will also be on hand to meet and greet fans.

“The Munsters have a really good staying power, the family values hold up really well,” said Patrick. “Now you have kids watching it with their grandparents or parents, everybody enjoying it together, which is difficult because there is not a whole lot of shows that that happens to.”

Patrick said his experience on The Munsters was amazing. “It turned out to be an interesting show, it was very well received, it was fun, good music, good guest stars, cool cars, all of the above,” he added.

According to Patrick, he is currently working on a renovation show (much like The Bronson Pinchot Project), but with a twist. He said his grandmother’s house in Missouri is the showcase of his new project, where he is creating a haunted bed-and-breakfast.

“It is an old classic historical house, built in 1875, with the resident ghost,” Patrick said. “We are doing a restoration show/history show/bio show, ‘Hollywood boy comes back home,’ to a bed-and-breakfast.”

Other guests, who will be appearing at the expo, include Paris Themmen (best known as Mike Tee Vee in the classic film Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory), Matt Hardy (professional wrestler), Geri Reischl (best known as Jan Brady from Sid & Marty Krofft’s Brady Bunch Variety Hour), David Orange (best known as the Sleepy Klingon from the motion picture Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country), and Triston Johnson (Zombie Barn Walker from AMC’s hit series The Walking Dead).

A live performance by award-wining Elvis Presley Impersonator Brad Crum will also be on hand.

Crum will be taking audiences through many of Presley’s legendary hits with the genuine sound, look and feel of the man himself.

Crum will be performing three sets on Saturday between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.

“I will be doing three costume changes and be featuring 60 songs that cover the entire range of Elvis’ career,” Crum said.

Crum’s impersonating is so compelling that he modeled for the Aloha Elvis figure released in 2008 by McFarlane Toys. The 6-inch figure features Crum’s body with Elvis’ face, he said.

According to USA Theatres, seating will be limited to one set per person and subject to availability on a first-come, first-served basis, space permitting.

Attendees will also have the opportunity for a chance to win a brand new classic-style full-size jukebox (List Price: $1,495.95), provided by RetroWonders.com, an authorized reseller of Crosley Radio products.

A real-Life 1966 Batmobile and Star Wars characters will also be featured, in addition to a pinball showcase and a mobile video game theater.

Early buyers are welcome Friday evening at 5 p.m. and also Saturday morning at 8 a.m. for $25 per person each day, while general admission on Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., is $7 for adults and $5 for seniors, college students and active military with photo I.D. Children 11 and under will be admitted for free, accompanied by a paying adult. Parking is free.

A variety of food and beverages will be available for purchase at the event.

For the most current show information, visit their website, www.usatheatres.com/conventions

MegaCon 2013

Last year was the first time I had attended the con in years. Whenever I went before I would always go on Sunday afternoons for a few hours walking around in the vendor area and buying a few things. Man have things gotten bigger since then. Last year I went Saturday and Sunday and I had a lot of  fun. This year I attended Friday and Saturday and there was more fun to be had.

Friday:

I attended a couple of panels that were all dedicated to writing. I felt as though I had attended a fun writing workshop.  The first panel was entitled Crafting the Character Arc: HOw to Successfully Navigate Your Character Through Your Narrative which was coducted by Jennie Jarvis.  For a morning panel on a Friday it was nearly full. The panel was interactive, fun, and extremely helpful.

After that panel I went to artist alley to say hello to some of my fellow Womanthology ladies Rachel Pandich of Aspire Comic and the upcoming Skin Crawling Horror Anthology, Kate Carleton & Josh Dykstra of Naughty Bicycle, and Danielle  Gransaull.  Next, I attended a panel called Crime Noir Panel II. Hosted by The Rack Pack Comics Podcast, this panel featured Darwyn Cooke, Jimmy Palmiotti, Frank Tieri, Justin Gray, and Dave Johnson. They talked about the crime noir genre as well as shared some funny stories. It was a great panel. I wanted to say hello to Jimmy and Justin but I was too shy to (more on that later).  At the end of the panel, all the panelists did a small cheap shot of whiskey.

The last panel I attended for the day was World Building. The panel was hosted by local writers Glenda Finkelstein, T.S. Robinson, Phillip McCall, and Bill Htfield. This was another informative panel as the panelist gave advice and shared their experiences about creating dynamic environments, cultures, and challenges that will help writers drive their plot and develop their characters.

Only three panels attended? You say, well it was a long but fun day.  And then there was traffic, lots of traffic.

Saturday: 

Over 60,000 people were expected on this day and man there were a lot of folks at the con. And of course there was traffic lots and lots of it so by the time my sister and I got there we didn’t get to attend the panels that we wanted. We walked around and people watched. I have to say there were many attendees that did some amazing cosplay such as this The Fifth Element Ruby Rhod and entourage cosplay! I just wanted to go Bzzz Bzzz Bzzz!

My sis and I cosplayed as Supergirl and Young Justice’s Superboy. One big higlight of the day was that I finally worked up my nerve and said hello to Jimmy Palmiotti and Justin Gray who were both very nice and gave me a copy of one of Creator Owned Heroes  and signed it. I was so excited about meeting them that I totally forgot to take a picture, oh well next time! Finally the last cool thing of the day was that my sister and I found a great pizza place around the corner from the con called Flippers. Their pizza is delicious!

So yes that was my MegaCon 2013 experience, not much to write about but I still had a good time despite the traffic and…well it was still good. Until next year!

These pictures were taken by my sister Dorothy! Thanks!

Each issue of Nova includes a code for a free digital copy on the Marvel Comics app (for iPhone®, iPad®, iPad Touch® & Android devices). Additionally, each issue of Nova features special augmented reality content available exclusive through the Marvel AR app – including cover recaps, behind the scenes features and more that add value to your reading experience at no additional cost.

This April, Jeph Loeb & Ed McGuinness go soaring beyond the stratosphere with Nova #3!

For more on Marvel NOW!, please visit now.marvel.com and join the conversation on Twitter using #MarvelNOW.

NOVA #2 (FEB130510)

Written by JEPH LOEB

Art & Cover by ED MCGUINNESS

FOC- 03/25/13 On-Sale – 04/17/13

Valiant is proud to announce its debut appearance at WonderCon Anaheim on March 29-31, 2013 at the Anaheim Convention Center – and we’re bringing along a ton of free giveaways, show exclusive products, and special guests to celebrate!

Visit Valiant at booth #710 all weekend long to get a sneak peek at the future of the Valiant Universe inside the pages of the Harbinger Wars Sketchbook – a FREE first look inside the biggest Valiant event of the summer! And look for signing sessions throughout the weekend with New York Times best-selling author and Harbinger Wars co-writer Joshua Dysart!

Valiant will also be debuting new “Harbinger Wars blue” Valiant logo t-shirts for sale, alongside a complete selection of Valiant comics, trade paperbacks, hardcovers, and blank convention-only flip books.

And don’t forget to join us on Saturday, March 30th at 4:30 pm in room 208 for the “Valiant 2013: Harbinger Wars and Beyond” panel – the only place to find out everything you need to know about the Valiant Universe in 2013!

With the opening shot of Harbinger Wars just weeks away, get ready to discover the secrets that will put Harbinger and Bloodshot on an inescapable collision course – directly from a panel of Valiant insiders, including writer Joshua Dysart (Harbinger, Harbinger Wars), Valiant Publisher Fred Pierce, Valiant CEO & Chief Creative Officer Dinesh Shamdasani, and some special surprise guests!

For information, visit ValiantUniverse.com or Comic-Con International’s WonderCon homepage.

Each issue of Iron Man includes a code for a free digital copy on the Marvel Comics app (for iPhone®, iPad®, iPod Touch® & Android devices). Each issue of Iron Man features special augmented reality content available exclusive through the Marvel AR app – including cover recaps, behind the scenes features and more that add value to your reading experience at no additional cost.

This April, justice is served in Iron Man #8! So what are you waiting for? Head on out to your local comic shop and reserve a copy today!

IRON MAN #8 (JAN130688)

Written by KIERON GILLEN

Art & Cover by GREG LAND

FOC- 03/25/13 On-Sale – 04/17/13

The second printing of PETER PANZERFAUST #10 will be in stores on April 17 and can be pre-ordered at comic book stores now (Diamond Comics code FEB138250). The first printing sold out the same week as its March 13 release. In addition to the all-new cover featuring art by series artist Tyler Jenkins, Image will also be producing a convention exclusive edition of the issue with a blank cover for sketches and autographs and a limited edition retailer exclusive edition as a token of thanks for the readers and retailers who have supported PETER PANZERFAUST.

Issue #10 closes out the “Paris” story arc for the series and will be collected in the series’ second trade paperback, which will be in stores on May 15.

Fueled by the announcement of the production of a motion comic adaptation by the BBC and coverage in USA Today and The Huffington Post, PETER PANZERFAUST has become the quintessential independent comics success story. A personal story for its creators writer Kurtis J. Wiebe and artist Jenkins, PETER PANZERFAUST offers an emotional depth in a high-concept package, capturing readers’ devotion to this comic book series outside of the superhero mainstream.

The series continues to garner excellent reviews as it moves toward its third story arc:

“In the horrors of war, the story of Peter Panzerfaust is an inspiring story of friendship, honour, courage and living life to its fullest.”

-Comicosity (10/10 review)

“Peter Panzerfaust #10 is an exemplary outing that not only offers a fitting conclusion to this arc but adds in some more character development to boot.”

-Unleash the Fanboy

“Peter Panzerfaust is simply a comic that is too excellent to ignore.”

-Read Comic Books

###

Publisher Blurb:

Moments after scientists create a time machine, terrorists steal and weaponize the device, sending bombs into the future Las Vegas evaporates in flame as the terrorists reveal their future target: Washington DC. Now, the FBI must find the terrorists before the capital becomes a Ghost Town. The clock is ticking.

Reviewers Comments:

From Action Lab Comics mature line comes, Ghost Town. The five-issue series from writer/creator, Dave Dwonch and Artist Justin Greenwood, is full of action reminiscent those explosive ’80s action films such as Die Hard, Lethal Weapon, Rambo, and (one of my all time favorites) Terminator. Hyperbole aside, is the content of this comic worth the price of admission?

First off, Ghost Town has all the markings of a story tailor made for those with a Jones in their bones for action. Within the first few pages splashed with profanity, full frontal nudity, Boom! head shots and explosions. The story opens with Emil, a young scientists, that works for a company that (as stated in the publisher blurb) creates a working time machine. From that point in the story, things go sideways and FBI is quickly involved. Through very realistic and natural dialogue each of the characters that make an appearance throughout this first issue have their own unique voice.

However, due to the strength of the dialogue, the glancing lack of a true central/lead character both detracts and distracts from the comic. This ultimately leads me to the biggest problem; the troupes strung together throughout this issue. From the terrorist themselves with their motivations and actions, to summer blockbuster style uses of theatrics, Ghost Town #1 doesn’t stray might into the realm of the unexpected.

It’s possible this comic is an assemble piece and that I’m missing the point of where this story is headed. However, the lack of an emotional anchor makes it difficult for readers to connect with this new comic franchise. In the end, I hope that I’m proven wrong and that the by-the-numbers first issue of this five-issue series is simply a hiccup in a tale that takes advantage of no only the last page reveal but the dialogue, artistic direction and the ghost town as well.

Old Superheroes! Ancient Gods! Teen Angst! Rotting Zombies!

Titan Comics and ATOMEKA are pleased to announce the release of SHARKY – the first in an irreverent, thrilling, genre-mashing graphic novel series by Dave Elliott and Alex Horley.

Perfect for fans of bestselling creators Stan Lee, Jack Kirby, Robert Kirkman, Simon Bisley and Richard Corben, SHARKY marks the debut of an all-new hero!

SHARKY has been raised alone by his single mom, with no idea of who his ‘love’em and leave’em’ father was. Hitting the brick wall called puberty, he discovers that the ‘no-good-S.O.B.’ who contributed to his genes is none other than ODIN, king of the Norse Gods – and his mother is a child of ZEUS, ruler of Olympus!

Now, whenever something sets off his hormones, he transforms into the demi-god SHARKY – complete with a pumped-up body The Rock would kill to have – and the strength of Hercules!

When two of the black sheep of his family tree visit Earth and create havoc by raising the dead as an army to take over the world, Sharky has to pick sides, with the fate of the planet at stake. With no time for training, it’s a case of working out Superhero 101 as he goes – and if he fails, his friends’ lives are forfeit!

WITH GREAT POWER COMES GREAT IRRESPONSIBILITY!

SHARKY also comes complete with cameo appearances from indie comics favorites THE MASK, VAMPIRELLA, SAVAGE DRAGON, MILK & CHEESE, MR MONSTER and FLAMING CARROT!

“Alex and myself are huge fans of Jack Kirby, John Buscema, Richard Corben and Frank Frazetta,” says creator Dave Elliott. “This series is the wild, mutant baby that splices those genes and crosses all those genres.”

Writer Dave Elliott is a constant innovator in the world of comics, with a long career as a writer, artist, editor, publisher and IP developer. Working on diverse titles such as A1, Deadline, Viz Comic, Heavy Metal magazine, 2000 AD, Justice League of America, Transformers, GI Joe and Doctor Who. Elliott is currently relaunching his company ATOMEKA, started with his partner Garry Leach, as part of a co-publishing deal with Titan Comics.

Artist Alex Horley has illustrated comics for DC Comics, Dark Horse, Image Comics and Heavy Metal as well as being a major contributor to the sets of smash-hit collectable card games World of Warcraft and Magic: The Gathering.

SHARKY will hit book stores on September 11, 2013. The series will also be available to read day and date on the iPad, iPhone, Web, Android and Kindle Fire, exclusively through the comiXology app and comiXology.com

Retailers can order SHARKY from the April 2013 edition of Diamond PREVIEWS.

Tell us what you think at 239-244-2899 and leave us a voicemail or tweet @fanboybuzz.com!

Genre: Comic Book Podcast | Updates: Often | Duration: 43 minutes | Subscribe: RSS Feed

Show Note 1: Cocky Cosplay

Joe Simon! Jack Kirby! Andy Kuhn! Dave Dorman! Alex Horley! Mark A Nelson! Sami Basri! Ron Marz! Tom Raney! Vito Delsante! Javier Aranda! Dave Wilkins! Ian Edginton! D’Israeli!, and many more star in new graphic novel anthology series!

Titan Comics and ATOMEKA are pleased to announce the release of the first volume of a brand-new graphic novel series, Monster Massacre – a SF and fantasy anthology headed up by A1 creator Dave Elliott and starring the greatest comics talent: past, present and future!

Monster Massacre is an epic, heart attack inducing, spanky new graphic anthology series for fans of science fiction, fantasy, big monsters and all-out mayhem!

Hitting book stores on September 11, 2013, Monster Massacre Vol.1 showcases 10 stories from some of the greatest comics talent:

• From the creators of Captain America a Classic Joe Simon and Jack Kirby horror story THE GREATEST HORROR OF THE ALL from Black Cat Mystery!

• MONSTER PUNCH, starring IRA GERSCHWIN: MONSTER FIGHTER by Andy Kuhn (Firebreather, TMNT)!

• HITCH, a post apocalyptic zombie story by Dave Dorman (Star Wars, Indiana Jones)!

• ZEKE & KRO, a macabre black comedy by Mark A Nelson (ALIENS)!

• A Faery and a Human team up to con everyone in DESTINY’S ROGUES by Ron Marz (Shinku, Sliver Surfer, Green Lantern) and Tom Raney (The Authority, Avengers)!

• DAIKAIJU – Dragons destroy Japan by Vito Delsante (Scooby-Doo) and Javier Aranda (Star Trek, Marksmen)!

• EL ZOMBO by Dave Wilkins (El Zombo, Batman: Arkham Asylum, Masters of the Universe) and Dave Elliott! Guest-starring SHARKY and MR MONSTER!

• Jerry Paris, Arthur Suydam and Dave Elliott bring us DEEP SIX – day one of the return of Cthulhu!

• SHARKY by Dave Elliott and Alex Horley (Sharky, Lobo, Blizzard) sees the novice hero and THOR face Alvin the Dwarf and Devlin the Giant Lice!

• LITTLE MONSTERS is a prologue to the graphic novel Kingdom of the Wicked by Ian Edginton (Scarlet Traces, Leviathan, Victorian Undead) and D’Israeli (Lazarus Churchyard, Sandman)!

• Plus art galleries from Alex Horley and Steve White!

“Garry Leach and myself created Monster Massacre for those who wanted their comics less ‘grim and gritty’ and more ‘sexy fun and crazy adventure,’ says creator Dave Elliott. “Whether you like your action-packed comics high-brow or low-brow, we’ve got you covered!”

Monster Massacre Vol.1 comes with a special wraparound cover by Garry Leach (2000AD, Marvelman, Global Frequency, A1) and Sunny Gho (Superior, Ultimate Avengers, Stellar Labs).

The series will also be available to read day and date on the iPad, iPhone, Web, Android and Kindle Fire, exclusively through the comiXology app and comiXology.com

Retailers can order Monster Massacre Vol.1 from the April 2013 edition of Diamond PREVIEWS.

To keep up-to-date with news from Titan Comics, visit www.titan-comics.com or join us on Facebook or follow @comicstitan on Twitter.

A tale of the fallout when four geniuses — the founders of the tremendously influential and powerful research and development company World Corp — clash and part ways, NOWHERE MEN explores the potential of science and technology, and the human cost of science without limits. The narrative transitions between the volatile partnership of the “Fab Four of Science” in World Corp’s early days and the present-day fruits of their work — a team of researchers quarantined in space as a virus coursing through their veins begins to manifest in unimagined changes.

The series continues to receive overwhelmingly positive reviews with the release of the fourth issue:

“Nowhere Men respects the intelligence of the readers, and it’s taking us to places that feel brand new. There’s nothing not to dig about that. Catch it now while it’s still ramping up.”

-CraveOnline

“Nowhere Men’s a trip fo’ sho’, but as we’ve established it’s a lot more than just some next-level sickness. In fact, the perfidious mystery behind the mutating virus and WorldCorp’s involvement is creepier than the virus itself. Between corporate madmen and a transmogrifying infection, you’re better off with the virus.”

-Page and Panel

“This book. Wow. What a masterpiece. That’s not a word I throw around lightly, either. Image Comics’ “Nowhere Men” is without a doubt the most incredibly designed ongoing comic book out today. Eric Stephenson, Nate Bellegarde, Jordie Bellaire and Fonografiks are producing a brilliantly cohesive package, and the fourth issue is dynamite.”
-GeekSmash

“There is nothing on the stands like Nowhere Men…. With every detail from Eric Stephenson and Nate Bellgarde, along with Jordie Bellaire and fonografiks, this world of super science is all the more realized.”

-Silver Snail

“”Nowhere Men” just keeps getting better and better, and if the spirit and energy on show here are any indication, there are some seriously fun issues ahead…. Comics are the new rock ‘n’ roll.”

-Multiversity Comics

NOWHERE MEN #5 will be in stores on April 24.
###

Each issue of Uncanny X-Men includes a code for a free digital copy on the Marvel Comics app (for iPhone®, iPad®, iPod Touch® & Android devices). Additionally, each issue of Uncanny X-Men features special augmented reality content available exclusive through the Marvel AR app – including cover recaps, behind the scenes features and more that add value to your reading experience at no additional cost.

This April, Bendis and Bachalo raise the stakes in Uncanny X-Men #4!

For more on Marvel NOW!, please visit now.marvel.com and join the conversation on Twitter using #MarvelNOW.

UNCANNY X-MEN #4 (FEB130545)

Written by BRIAN MICHAEL BENDIS

Art & Cover by CHRIS BACHALO

FOC- 03/18/13 On-Sale – 04/10/13

There’s a brand-new star in Heroic Publishing’s galaxy of comic book superheroines.

The initial print run of Champions Adventures #7, featuring the first full-fledged cover appearance of the wonderful WINTER WONDERLASS, along with the very first Winter Wonderlass solo adventure, has completely sold out. And Heroic Publishing has announced that this issue of Champions Adventures will be going back to press.

According to Heroic’s publisher, Dennis Mallonee, fan response to this brand-new character came as a complete surprise, because she’s a character who doesn’t even exist! In the world of Flare and the League of Champions, the Winter Wonderlass is a completely fictional character, who was created by the superhero Icestar, way back when he was pitching ideas for comic book stories to the publisher of the official Champions comic book.

But in Champions Adventures #7, the supposedly fictional Winter Wonderlass is indeed out there in the real world, having herself a real-world adventure! How is that possible? The answers to “The Mystery of the Winter Wonderlass” begin to unfold in the pages of Champions Adventures #7.

Comic book fans can order this and subsequent issue of Champions Adventures directly from the Heroic Publishing website at www.heroicmultiverse.com

Heroic Publishing’s comic book titles are distributed exclusively by Heroic Distribution’s online web service. Retailers interested in carrying this and other Heroic Publishing titles should register for a free retail account at www.heroicmultiverse.com/heroicdist

This April, the fight against the mechanical menace Ultron has reached a fever pitch in Age Of Ultron #5, courtesy of the blockbuster creative team of Brian Michael Bendis and Bryan Hitch! The few remaining members of Earth’s Mightiest must head to the Savage Land in the hopes of finding a way to survive and turn the tide of war! But with half of the heroes dead, are they enough to stop Ultron?

With the robotic revolution in full force, no fan can miss how Age of Ultron will ultimately change the Marvel Universe leaving no hero or villain unscathed! So what are you waiting for? Head on over to your local comic shop and reserve a copy of Age of Ultron #5!

AGE OF ULTRON #5 (FEB130477)

Written by BRIAN MICHAEL BENDIS

Art and Cover by BRYAN HITCH

FOC – 3/18/13, ON-SALE – 4/10/13

Bullies better watch out, cowboys best stay in their graves, and kids should keep a close eye on their deranged parents in the new issue of Indie Comics Horror!

Indie creators Fabian Rangel, Jr., Scott R. Schmidt, and Glenn Moane all lend their grim twist to stories in the issue haunting April’s Previews, Diamond’s comic book pre-order catalog, under Aazurn Publishing.

Above, Fabian Rangel, Jr.’s “Stinky,” Scott R. Schmidt’s “Ghosts,” and Glenn Møane’s “The Drain.”

Nine complete tales of dread, three more than Indie Comics Horror #1, shamble through Indie Comics Horror #2, the best fear from independent comic book creators. This #2 issue is bigger than #1. “Like some cancerous growth, this publication keeps expanding!” said Aazurn Publishing Publisher/Editor Gary Scott Beatty. “Fans crave horror and in this issue a dozen creators love swinging it at them!”

Fabian Rangel, Jr. self published the first two issues of his werewolves versus teens comic “Extinct” before signing on with Philadelphia based publisher 215 Ink in 2011. 2012 saw the release of “Extinct,” “Fall” and “Engines of Doom.” This year, Fabian continues to self publish “Revenge Rooster” and “Los Muertos,” though “Believe In Comics,” and in numerous anthologies.

Scott R. Schmidt is the writer and creator of “Steele Vs,” the Yukon adventures of Sam Steele, Northwest Mounted, with artist Slobodan Jovanovic. His work has been published by Future Quake Press, Ink and Drink Comics, and 215Ink. He publishes the anthology “Savage Pulp” with Jonathan Sawyer, and “Cold Ground,” a crime miniseries, with Nick O’Gorman through Pistol-Whip Press.

Norwegian Glenn Møane has released the one-shots “American Sinner” with Edson Alves and “Homecoming” with Marco Santiago. His graphic novel “Partners” (illustrated by Elias Martins) was published digitally by MoonShot Digital Comics. Glenn is currently working on a webcomic project called “Lazarus Standing” with industry veteran artist Dario Carrasco, and another one-shot.

Indie Comics Horror #2 presents a monstrous Lovecraftian cover from indie legend (Caliber, Moonstone, BOOM!, IDW) Andy Bennett. B3NN3TT.com

Information about other independent comic book creators and a video preview of Indie Comics Horror #2, with music by the appropriately indie Star Destroyer, are online at IndieComicsMagazine.com.

With no huge overprint, no digital version and no back issue sales, Indie Comics Horror #2 is available ONLY at your local and online comic book shops. It is best to pre-order from April’s Previews, said Beatty. Some Indie Comics Magazine issues, like 2011′s Christmas issue, are now hard to find.

Genre: Comic Book Podcast | Updates: Often | Duration: 53 minutes | Subscribe: RSS Feed

Four Premiere 13-Chapter Series Featuring Leading Marvel Superheroes and Creators

New York, NY—March 11, 2013—Get ready for a weekly comics experience featuring the most popular super heroes by the most talented creators, in an innovative format that will leave you demanding more! Announced yesterday at the Marvel House of Ideas panel during SXSW, beginning Tuesday July 9th Marvel will release a new Infinite Comic every week for an entire year spotlighting four of Marvel’s biggest characters in a 13-chapter series. Designed specifically for mobile devices and fully embracing the technological opportunities, Infinite Comics are the first to treat these devices as a new canvas, creating comics designed for a new generation of users. Not only will these new Infinite Comics will feature some of the most popular heroes in comics today but they’ll also boast some of the best creative talent in the industry!

To kick things off, fans are in for the ride of their life as superstar creators Jason Aaron, Jason Latour and Paco Diaz take Wolverine back to the Far East in Wolverine: Japan’s Most Wanted. The Silver Samurai has his sights set on Wolverine and will do anything he can to get rid of him, including unleashing a horde of deadly ninjas, and the mutant mass murderer – Sabretooth!

“We call these Infinite Comics because the storytelling possibilities are, frankly, infinite,” said Alonso. “Perfect for new readers, but also set in current continuity to provide interest for long time fans, Wolverine: Japan’s Most Wanted follows right in line with the premium content fans have come to expect in this new medium. Throw in top creative talent and these Infinite Comics become a force to be reckoned with.”

Ignited by the red-hot success of Infinite Comics in 2012, and combined with the demand from fans and creators who saw a world of infinite potential in this new format, these stories are designed specifically for mobile devices and fully embracing the technological opportunities.

“Following the critical acclaim we had with Avengers VS. X-Men and Ultimate Spider-Man last year, we wanted to take advantage of the technical aspects of the digital reading experience take it to the next level,” explained Peter Phillips, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Marvel Digital Media Group. “By providing these comics on a weekly basis, we are furthering our commitment to bringing a new kind of digital reading experience to a wider audience than ever before.”

This is first time Marvel has ever offered all-new weekly digital comics content, and this June – Marvel is doing it style!

“Wolverine is one of our most popular characters both in and out of comics,” explained David Gabriel, SVP of Publishing, Print & Digital Sales. “What’s great about kicking off our weekly series with Wolverine, we’re hoping new fans might find interest in other stories featuring him and head on out to their local comic shops for more!”

Available right at your fingertips, these new Infinite Comics will be available on the Marvel Comics app (for iPhone®, iPad®, iPod Touch® & AndroidTM devices) and online in the Marvel Digital Comics Shop!

First issue of new superhero series gets second printing
This week, Image Comics demonstrated what everyone has suspected all along: SEX sells. Joe Casey’s and Piotr Kowalski’s comic book SEX, that is — a subversive take on superheroes that takes a former costumed crime-fighter into the underbelly of the city he’d formerly sworn to protect. The first issue, which made its debut with a limited edition exclusive cover at Emerald City Comicon and landed in stores on March 6, has sold out and will receive a second printing.

SEX #1 was the Pick of the Week at iFanboy: “It’s a book both titillating and somber, bright and dusky.”

“[F]for as much as this title begs for the attention of being called a porno mag disguised as a comic book, it refrains from titillation in favor of creating a fascinating character study amongst a fully realized neo-noir world.”
-IGN

The second printing of SEX #1 will be in stores on April 3 and can be pre-ordered now (Diamond Comics code JAN130476). SEX #2 will be in stores on April 10.

On June 12th, what happens in Vegas may just destroy the Valiant Universe!

Beginning in Harbinger Wars #3 (of 4) by Joshua Dysart, Duane Swierczynski, and Clayton Henry, get ready for the first appearance of the all-new, all-dangerous H.A.R.D. Corps – an unpredictable new player in Valiant’s first crossover event!

Las Vegas is burning, and the situation on the ground is about to go from bad to worse. With the firefight between the Harbinger Foundation, Bloodshot and the Renegades spiraling out of control, Project Rising Spirit has only one desperate option left to prevent the conflagration from spreading. It’s time to bring the deep-black weapons development project – designation H.A.R.D. Corps – back online. But are they a precision strike or a sledgehammer? And can they be trusted with the enormous power they wield?

“These guys are dangerous. They are not covert operators and they are not stealthy. When it comes to a precarious situation like the Harbinger Wars, they are a weapon of last resort,” Valiant CEO and Chief Creative Officer Dinesh Shamdasani told Newsarama. “We keep saying internally that the H.A.R.D. Corps are not a scalpel. They’re more like a landmine. Dropping them into the mix of Harbinger Wars is going to ensure things are explosive – and, rest assured, they are not an element that Bloodshot, Harada, or the Renegades will be anticipating.”

The Harbinger Wars hit their boiling point on June 12th as the H.A.R.D. Corps charge out of the line of fire and into the Valiant Universe! Don’t miss their devastating first assault in Harbinger Wars #3 (of 4) – featuring covers by Patrick Zircher, Trevor Hairsine, and Khari Evans!

For more information on Harbinger Wars and the rest of the Valiant Universe, visit Valiant on Twitter, on Facebook, or at ValiantUniverse.com.

HARBINGER WARS #3 (OF 4)
Written by JOSHUA DYSART & DUANE SWIERCZYNSKI
Art by CLAYTON HENRY
Cover by PATRICK ZIRCHER
Pullbox Exclusive Variant by TREVOR HAIRSINE
Variant Cover by KHARI EVANS
Variant Cover by PATRICK ZIRCHER
$3.99/T+/32 pgs.
ON SALE 6/20/13 (FOC – 5/20/13)

Also on sale soon from Valiant…

HARBINGER WARS #1 (OF 4)
Written by JOSHUA DYSART & DUANE SWIERCZYNSKI
Art by CLAYTON HENRY & CLAYTON CRAIN
Cover by LEWIS LAROSA (FEB131152)
Pullbox Exclusive Variant by CLAYTON HENRY (FEB131153)
Variant Cover by CLAYTON CRAIN (FEB131154)
Variant Cover by PATRICK ZIRCHER (FEB131155)
$3.99/T+/32 pgs.
ON SALE – 4/3/13 (FOC – 3/11/13)

HARBINGER WARS #2 (OF 4)
Written by JOSHUA DYSART & DUANE SWIERCZYNSKI
Art & Cover by CLAYTON HENRY (MAR131316)
Pullbox Exclusive Variant by LEWIS LAROSA (MAR131317)
Variant Cover by CLAYTON CRAIN (MAR131318)
Variant Cover by STEPHANE PERGER (MAR131319)
$3.99/T+/32 pgs.
ON SALE – 5/1/13 (FOC – 4/8/13)

HARBINGER #11 (HARBINGER WARS)
Written by JOSHUA DYSART
Art & Cover by CLAYTON HENRY
Pullbox Exclusive Cover by CLAYTON HENRY
Variant Cover by PATRICK ZIRCHER
$3.99/T+/32pgs.
ON SALE APRIL 10th (FOC – 3/18/13)

BLOODSHOT #10 (HARBINGER WARS)
Written by DUANE SWIERCZYNSKI
Art by BARRY KITSON
Cover by MICO SUAYAN
Pullbox Exclusive Cover by CLAYTON HENRY
Wraparound Variant by LEWIS LAROSA
$3.99/T+/32pgs.
ON SALE APRIL 17th (FOC – 3/25/13)

Genre: Comic Book Podcast | Updates: Often | Duration: 30 minutes | Subscribe: RSS Feed

Show Note 1: Cocky Cosplay 1
Show Note 2: Cocky Cosplay 2

Stay tuned to www.marvel.com and www.sxswgaming.com for more details on Marvel’s plans for SXSW.

Their motto—Fan Supported, Creator Distributed—has never been more true as this season was made possible with a $113,000 Kickstarter campaign. “This season proves that fans can drive the production of quality entertainment,” says executive producer Ben Dobyns, “allowing independent creators the freedom to make extraordinary ongoing shows without network oversight.” Distribution partner Redux explained “Redux’s platform will power the streaming and sale of the film across the web, Connected TV, and mobile.”

About Journeyquest Season 2: City of the Dead:
Perf (Christian Doyle), a wizard cursed with a wisecrackingsword, has been captured by an assasin intent on delivering him and his companions to the Wicked Kings. Meanwhile Karn the Unpleasant (Bob Sapp) and Queen Starling (Jen Page) strive to protect their throne from the Kings while Wren (Emilie Rommel Shimkus), the bard assigned to chronicle Perf’s epic, faces professional competition from rival songsmith Silver Tom (Fran Kranz). JourneyQuest is made available under a Creative Commons license, allowing the public broad rights to share, remix, and enjoy the work.

Fans can check out the lastest developments on all Zombie Orpheus webseries at www.zombieorpheus.com.
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ZombieOrpheus?fref=ts
Twitter: https://twitter.com/zombieorpheus
YouTube.com at http://www.youtube.com/zombieorpheusent

What if the zombie apocalypse began in Riverdale? This horror-infused comic answers that question when it kicks off in late 2013, spearheaded by one of Hollywood’s hottest writers, Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa, who will be fresh off the high profile crossover, ARCHIE MEETS GLEE.

AFTERLIFE WITH ARCHIE will provide readers with zombie-filled mayhem like only Archie can, taking the Riverdale gang where they’ve never been before – to the grave and back.

In addition to his Archie credits, Aguirre-Sacasa has made a name for himself in the world of television (writer/producer on GLEE), Broadway musicals (Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark), and movies, penning the remake of Stephen King’s Carrie, which premieres this fall.

“Roberto’s a superstar writer,” said Archie Co-CEO Jon Goldwater. “Working with him on the upcoming AFTERLIFE WITH ARCHIE is the next step in the ever expanding Archie universe.”

“AFTERLIFE WITH ARCHIE combines two of my great passions: Archie comics and horror comics,” said Aguirre-Sacasa. “This series came out of conversations with Jon [Goldwater], asking questions like, ‘what if the Archie characters found themselves in a Stephen King novel like The Stand or a Sam Raimi movie like The Evil Dead?’ Could we pull that off, tonally? We’re really going for it. The first arc is called ‘Escape from Riverdale.’ The second arc is called, brace yourself, ‘Betty RIP.’ Of course, all the horror stuff will be balanced by elements that are quintessentially Archie.”

Genre: Comic Book Podcast | Updates: Often | Duration: 36 minutes | Subscribe: RSS Feed

Publisher’s Blurb:

Red Skull and his S-Men move forward their take over of New York. A member of the Uncanny Avengers joins the S-Men! When the chips are down, the fight all but lost, one Avenger must rise and face the terrible might of The Omega Skull!

Reviewer’s Comments:

Issue #4 is the culmination of the united Avengers first encounter with the Xavier infused Red Skull. And this united team basically get their collective asses kicked. Writer Rick Remender and artist John Cassaday, put these united Avengers through the wringer as the Red Skull, with the aid of his S-Men (and Thor), brings an onslaught of emotional, mental and physical pain down upon this team.

The Red Skull proves to be a formidable opponent for the combined forces of X-Men and Avengers. Although the former Nazi’s plan to wipe the earth of the reborn mutant populace seems simple, it’s decisive: he strikes at the heart of the team members. One particular moment that comes to mind involves long-time enemies Red Skull and Captain America. Without giving away any details, this sequence between the two is a horrifyingly beautiful. Through Remender’s dialogue and Cassaday’s pencils, the Red Skull’s words and utter conviction nearly had me convinced that his cause is just.

Although the action is hard and heavy, it’s the quiet moments where this issues totally shines. This team’s dynamic is the most explosive since possibility the original All-New All-Different X-Men that featured Wolverine, Nightcrawler, Angel and Storm. Although this is a book that is tabbed as the bridge between X-Men and Avengers franchises, the emotion of this series is heavily influences by the soap opera aspect of Marvel’s Merry Mutants.

For instance the tension that resides between Scarlet Witch and Rogue as well as Wolverine’s guilt over Professor X’s death, makes for a few strong reasons to continue to come back month in and month out to Uncanny Avengers. One last thing that I must remake on within the pages of this issue and that relates to the Summers brother origin. Now as a long-time X-Men fan, I’ve read the Scott and Alex Summers parachute story a dozen times, in a dozen different ways; however, I think the opening of Uncanny Avengers #4 is the first time I can remember reading this

In closing, Rick Remender and John Cassaday conclude the first encounter between the united Avengers and the Red Skull in a stunning fashion. Spoiler none withstanding (although there is a hint in the opening paragraph), the stage is set for these combined X-Men and Avengers to not only deepen the connection between their respective franchises with one another but also forge new unexplored ground in within the Marvel Now!

JOSHUA DYSART. DUANE SWIERCZYNSKI. CLAYTON HENRY.

JUNE.

In this new iteration, Dr. Mirage is the stage name of Shan Fong, a one-time television investigator of paranormal phenomena whose unique abilities make her an invaluable asset to police departments around the world. During the upcoming “Darque Reckoning” storyline – beginning on March 6th in Shadowman #5 – Fong steps into the world of Jack Boniface and the Shadowman after discovering that no matter where she goes, the dead only have one thing to say: “Master Darque is coming.”

“Since the Summer of Valiant, we’ve been slowly building towards several key events. You can see the first of these events this April in Harbinger Wars, where Bloodshot and Harbinger collide,” Valiant CEO and Chief Creative Officer Dinesh Shamdasani told the AP. “The return of Dr. Mirage is part of that plan — part of setting the stage. Dr. Mirage is a key piece in the future of the Valiant Universe and the timing of the return, as well as the manner, is no accident.”

Read the Associated Press’ complete coverage here.

For more information on Shadowman, X-O Manowar, and the rest of the Valiant Universe, visit Valiant on Twitter, on Facebook, or at ValiantUniverse.com.

SHADOWMAN #5 – ON SALE MARCH 6th!
Written by JUSTIN JORDAN & PATRICK ZIRCHER
Art by PATRICK ZIRCHER, LEE GARBETT, & ROBERTO DE LA TORRE
Cover by PATRICK ZIRCHER (JAN131302)
“Blackout” Pullbox Exclusive Variant by PATRICK ZIRCHER (JAN131303)
Variant Cover by DAVE JOHNSON (JAN131304)
Linewide Variant by RAFAEL GRAMPA (JAN131305)
$3.99/T+/32 pgs.

Publisher’s Blurb:
Welcome aboard the new art team of EDDY BARROWS and EBER FERREIRA!

• The team is finally reunited in the wake of “DEATH OF THE FAMILY”—but something is very wrong with Red Robin! What did The Joker do?

Reviewer’s Comments:
Teen Titans is back for its next major storyline. It seems the book is back in line with its previous quality, and it is very welcomed.

The story opens with the introduction of a certain ‘light’ based character that has been experimented upon, and has turned into something hideous. In the meantime, the team is all together, minus Superboy, and move to their new headquarters which is a giant boat. It is said to protect the common people from their enemies, and the team can be attacked themselves. After Tim shows them his new computer system, Bunker discovers the problems of being the roommate of Kid Flash’s. Next, Tim reflects on the events of late, and ends up having a romantic moment with Kiran. While the previous doesn’t make much sense because there was never much of any romance between the two, Wonder Girl and Tim finally have their moment. However, Raven is watching over all this as things go on between the two. What happens is at the end and proves the most problematic for me…..

Scott Lobdell and Fabian Nicieza have been working well together, and obviously taking some of the work off his back. However, the two put together a great introduction to the next story, and hopefully, it continues this way. But, I am a bit concerned with the last page in their decision to make their starring character a possible villain.

Eddy Barrows does a fantastic job with the art. I have been missing his work on Nightwing but it is great to have him on the book after the on and off again Brett Booth. I am hoping he stays on Nightwing while Barrows sticks on Titans.

I am certainly hoping these books do not have fill ins.
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Tommy Zimmer is an upcoming writer of short stories, comic books, journalism/media reviews, screenplays, and anything related to writing. On zimmert101.wordpress.com, you can view his latest work, and see what exciting things he is currently doing!!

Publisher’s Blurb:
Everything Grant Morrison has been planning since the start of BATMAN, INCORPORATED leads to this stunning issue!

• You must not miss this one!

Reviewer’s Comments:
Most everyone has heard the outcome of Batman Incorporated #8. Many found it shocking, many saw it coming and many were indecisive. For my money, I was a bit unsure whether or not Morrison would kill off Damian after keeping him around longer. It seemed to me his old quote about wanting to kill him off became invalid at that point but after #8, it certainly seems this is the end of Damian’s era in Bat-comics unfortunately.

Damian returns in a flash flying above the crowd where Nightwing is fighting. Bruce is still trapped by Talia, and is being tortured verbally by her. The action moves to Tim Drake down at the main Wayne building where he is protecting a woman named Ellie until Damian swoops in. Dick saves Damian from being shot. Next comes one of the best scenes between the old dynamic duo, and it is quite exciting to see the two bounce back into action to try to take down the Damian clone. However after a battle trying to stop him, the inevitable comes with Bruce and Dick unable to save him from his fate.

Grant Morrison went for the gut with this issue, and certainly made it bleed. Damian’s place in the Batman franchise has come to a close unfortunately, and the timeline is back to what it was prior. That being said, Damian’s place will never be forgotten.

Chris Burnham with friend Jason Masters illustrates it nicely. What you usually expect from Burnham is there with a little help from Masters. It is beautiful and sad when the inevitable comes. Everything is paced well, and the story moves quite nicely.

What comes in #9 is only yet to be seen………
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Tommy Zimmer is an upcoming writer of short stories, comic books, journalism/media reviews, screenplays, and anything related to writing. On zimmert101.wordpress.com, you can view his latest work, and see what exciting things he is currently doing!!

Writer: Tim Hutchison
Artist: Alisson Borges
Colors: Kate Finnegan
Number of Pages: 24
Price: 3.50
Color: Color
Safety Content Label: PARENTAL ADVISORY – 15 years and older. Similiar to T+ but featuring more mature themes and/or more graphic imagery.

Publisher’s Blurb:
Take a trip back over the rainbow, to an Oz you never knew existed. Dorothy Gale and her new found friends have a new enemy on their heels…and it isn’t the Wicked Witch of the West!

Reviewer’s Comments:
So, this comic is a little different. The blurb says that it will take you “…to an Oz you never knew existed.” That’s a fair statement. The story definitely feels more derivative of The Wizard of Oz than more so than a peek down the yellow bricked road we all know and love. This story is more of a Yellow Bricked dusty trail.
The story takes place in an Oz that is decidedly influenced by Western films. We pick up after the characters from the familiar movie had already visited the wizard. Dorothy has been captured and taken to the Wicked Witch of the West’s castle. Our other three characters are a bit, erm, different than you may remember. The Tin-man is cowboy outlaw/sheriff blend, The Scarecrow is a lot less straw, a lot more hot Native American girl, and The Cowardly Lion appears to have come off of Animal Planet’s answer to RuPaul’s Drag Race(Think scar in Geisha makeup and you’re on the right track). This odd but lovable trio is held captive in General Jinjur’s palace. They break free early on and the aforementioned hot Native American Scarecrow leads the group, along with some other friends, on a search for Dorothy. General Jinjur(not too shabby a looker herself) sends a group called the Wheelers after them, and now you’re essentially caught up.

This particular issue moved just a little bit slower than the others. Not in a bad way or anything. The journey still advanced. But more focus was put on getting to know the characters and their relationships to one another. If there was a star of this issue, it was General Jinjur. We got to know one of her closest friends, had a peek into her past which partially revealed how she came to be so cold blooded. The highlight of the issue for me was when we got to see what Jinjur does when a couple yellow-bellied thieves try to mess with her town.
The story wasn’t devoid of action/excitement. The two closing scenes were remarkably high octane and set the tone for issue 5 quite nicely. One of these scenes is the Jinjur scene, which was brilliant. The other… well I can’t say because, that, my dear friends would be a spoiler. Let’s just say it is a cliffhanger jam packed with anticipation and anxiety and it WILL make you want to dive into issue 5.

A quick word on the art: GORGEOUS!
Was that too quick? Okay, I’ll add more. Alisson Borges and Kate Finnegan are a freaking power duo. Fun fact: Alisson is indeed not a woman. I had a whole proactive “talented women in the industry” spiel ready. Luckily I do a little Googling of the creators I’ve not heard of before reviewing them. Oh well, the proactive rant still applies to Kate Finnegan, even though she doesn’t need it stands up to damn near any colorist I have ever seen. And As far as Alisson…She’s the man! (EDIT: Upon further reviewing Mr. Borges’s first name it became painfully obvious that he was a man. Let’s break it down. Al, a man’s name. Maybe THEE man’s name. Son, meaning the male offspring from two parents. Al-is-son… How was I so blind?)

Bottom Line(cause Stonecold said so): Legends of Oz is beautiful comic that changes pace brilliantly to keep from getting stale. The story is full of nods to fans of the original movie, but also fresh enough that you can go into it with the vaguest of recollection and still enjoy it. And, most importantly, it’s interesting and really makes you want them to get to the witches castle so you can see what’s happening already! Sorry. I get impatient. Anyway, check it out. It’s a good read.

Genre: Comic Book Podcast | Updates: Often | Duration: 52 minutes | Subscribe: RSS Feed