Friday, April 18, 2008

April 18th, Bristol UK – Three weeks and counting until the UK’s biggest comics convention at the British Empire & Commonwealth Exhibition Hall on 10th and 11th May 2008, and this week we reveal more of the new books, offers and EXpo EXclusives on show.

The Bristol International Comic Expo website www.comicexpo.net will be updated this weekend with these details and more on the panel rundown for the weekend. In addition, the Virtual Bristol Anthology returns this year – http://virtualbristol.monkeyswithmachineguns.com - a chance for readers to preview some of the new books available at Bristol, and reserve a copy in advance or order a copy if you sadly can’t make it this time.


Time Bomb Comics are first-time exhibitors, launching their second title 'Dick Turpin And The Restless Dead', a one-shot blend of Highwaymen, Zombies and Mayhem. They'll also have their first title available - the 'Ragamuffins:Stitches In Time' one-shot, sample pages and cover image can be found at www.comicspace.com/timebombcomics


Planet Ruskin bring their London-based comedy horror book, The Zombies Ate My Chilean. The story begins with four friends (Rich, Alex, Ricky and Greg) waking up to discover that they can't remember what had happened the night before. As it was Rich's birthday the night before, there were more friends involved in going out that night. It soon turns out they don't remember either. But while getting some hangover food, Rich gets a creepy call from a friend Dave. It turns out that Dave is the only one who does remember! Before he gets a chance to explain the phone cuts and leaves the gang startled. They soon race to Dave's house to find Dave dragged out of his house in two body bags with most of his body eaten! It's now up to the remaining fourteen to discover what happened on Rich's birthday before the rest of them turn out the same way as Dave. This book brings a new element to the Zombie genre as its storyline is set to step where zombie stories haven't gone before. It'll be a completely new direction with a witty modern script already mentioned by various fans of the book. Issue three will debut at Bristol, but the first two will also be available: this comic is based on ACTUAL UNDEAD EVENTS!


Self-Made Hero bring their Manga Shakespeare series to the Bristol Expo, with Paul Duffield signing and sketching with his book, The Tempest, and Kate Brown hers, A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Paul will also bring along the Expo Exclusive Artbook, containing a full colour version of Sojourn (as seen in Best New Manga 2) and Kate has her Expo Exclusive mini-comic featuring Day at the Beach and The Monster in the Well. Add in Freakangels and free sweets…


Bristol sees the first foray into comics by video games concept artist Ross Burt, in the form of the premiere issue of crazy graffiti space adventure series ‘Astrofunk’ – with posters and t-shirts also available.


The Underfire Comics table at the Bristol Expo this year will have 'Underfire Comics Presents: Rock Night', and 'The Human DK Dynamic! Part 1' by Dan Cox and Bob Molesworth. Rock Night will have
exclusive convention-only postcard sets available too.


As well as the 18 previous Banal Pig publications by Steve Tillotson and Gareth Brookes, brand new for the Bristol Expo will be the full colour Banal Pig Funnies comic, 32 pages of 3 panel humour strips by Steve Tillotson with guest strips by Oliver "Trains Are Mint" East, Dan Lester and Jim Medway amongst others.


Inspired by others, comics podcasts (http://comicspodcastsuk.wordpress.com/main-page/) from a UK perspective were created. So whether you’re looking for a guide through the murky world of geekdom (Geek Syndicate), a trans-Atlantic view on comics from the women of (Birds of Geek), the true antidote to the average comic book podcast (Quiet! Panelologists at Work), another view of comics from a woman’s perspective (Comic Racks) or some hidden gems from the world of independent comics (Comic Book Outsiders), the UK comic book podcasts group has it all. Hosts from all of the UK comic book podcasts will be appearing on a panel on Sunday to answer your questions about podcasting and comics.


Fried Brain Productions and creator George Terran will bring two main projects to the Bristol Expo: Chimera and Altered State. Chimera is basically a traditional Film-Noir but with Supernatural qualities. It is a story set in Paris 2022 and follows Gabriel "Gabe" Vaugn - an agent of InterPol as he
investigates the death of his brother and the mysterious suicides that are occurring in Paris. Along the way, Gabe finds out about a new drug that is about to hit the streets called, Chimera - a drug that allows the user to actually experience Heaven. The first issue will be launched at the Expo, with the artist Nathan Kilburn also in attendance. Altered State is a 6-issue mini-series, set about 100 years in the future and is about the tug-o-war social and political struggle of the English society when Mankind begins its next stage of evolution. As well as this story-line, Altered State has a bigger brother called Altered State Community Comic. This is an online comic where new writers and artists can come on board and produce a short story based in and around Altered State. The tag-line for the Community Comic is: "Everyone has their story to tell". Altered State Community Comic is an opportunity for new writers and artists to get their work produced and released into the world. It also means that the world of Altered State will continue to grow as new teams come in and produce stories.


Simia Comics will be at the Bristol Expo, bringing along their “Ape In A Spacesuit” comics to giveaway free, gratis and for nothing … this is the demo version of the full comic with placeholder art, and Simia will review portfolios and talk to interested artists who would like to come on board for the full series. So bring your work to Colin at Simia Comics and the gig could be yours…


Steve’s Black Bat Comics are a first time Bristol Expo dealer, specialising in old comics – they’ll be bringing loads of great old Marvels, DCs and indies, including issue one of the Avengers, X Men and Silver Surfer, as well as some old British comics and some old carded superhero figures.


Urban Rivals is the world's busiest online trading card game (www.urban-rivals.com) and at the Bristol Expo they will launch their "Search for an Art Star" contest. They're looking for 2 freelance character artists for the UK and US (www.urban-rivals.com/special/artstar) and will have packs available for interested artists, the deadline for submitting artwork is May 31st 2008.


Captain Bristol is a full time super hero with no time for a secret identity. With his trusty, well available sidekick Miss Splendid, he fights crime, protects the week and beats up Chavs. His mission is to free the city of the towny scum and make this fair city a better and safer place to live. Carrying his CB-branded shield of Justice, rope and razor sharp, lightning fast wit, he foils the schemes of the wicked and is a paragon of honour (www.myspace.com/captainbristol). Captain Bristol badges, t-shirts, posters and comics will be at the Bristol Expo, along with his creator, Alex Morgan, and the latest copy of Bristol’s Suit Yourself magazine.


NCsoft Europe will be at the Bristol Expo for their fourth year running, and for the third year running they'll be hosting the Draw the World Together team, the charity project started by Andrew Wildman. As in previous years, visitors to their stand can get anything and everything they want sketched by the DTWT artists in exchange for a charitable donation. This year they’ll feature Neil Edwards and Simon Williams on the stand for the entire weekend, with Andrew joining on Sunday. They’ll also no doubt have some special 'guest appearances' by Andie Tong, Mike Collins and probably plenty of other folk. Their biggest exclusive this year, launching at the Bristol Expo, is the first Draw the World Together/NCsoft Sketchbook, featuring characters from our games City of Heroes/City of Villains. Visitors will be able to pick up the sketchbook (32 pages black and white interiors) for just a £5 donation to Draw the World Together's chosen charity, EveryChild. There are only 500 copies of the sketchbook available so it's strictly limited and will go fast no doubt! Finally as last year, they'll be selling bargain priced games on the stand including best-sellers such as the Guild Wars trilogy, City of Heroes/City of Villains and Richard Garriott's Tabula Rasa.


In July 2008 Insomnia Publications (www.insomniapublications.com) will release “Cages”, by amazing Australian duo, Xander Bennett and Melanie Cook with an awesome cover by Jonathan Hickman of “The Nightly News” (Published by Image) and foreword written by “30 Days of Night”, “Fell” and “Wormwood’s” Ben Templesmith. Insomnia will have proof copies of the 120 page full color book on sale at their table at the Bristol Expo but, be advised, they are in limited supply of only 20 copies.

Layer Zero Graphic Novel will also be on sale. With over 30 creators involved; including some famous names in the industry including Simon “Cy” Dethan, Paul Green and Thomas Mauer (the Eagle award-nominated Starship Troopers) along with talents such as Paul Cartwright, Alasdair Duncan, Luke Hinchley, Mike Webster, Robert Robinson, Thommy Melanson and many more; and diverse creative styles on themes of Insomnia and Time, this 120 page, full colour book is not to be missed.

Free copies of Daemon issue one will be available to the first 1000 people on the Saturday morning in the Bristol Expo’s goodie bag; Alasdair Duncan’s novel, The Kill Cell, will be on sale along with a selection of posters by Paul Cartwright and Paul Green.

Insomnia Publications will also be previewing a book currently in production due for release later in the year, Cancertown. The first chapter can be viewed at the Insomnia Publications stand. Cy “Starship Troopers” Dethan writer of the book, Stephen Downey, incredible Irish pencil and ink talent, and Nic Wilkinson, lovely letterer, will all be present at the show.

Over the weekend Insomnia Publications will be reviewing creator portfolios. They will have a board with times on the days so please be sure to look at this first thing to avoid disappointment. Artists and Letterers, please bring samples for on the spot review and cards or work examples for Insomnia to take away; Writers, please submit packs and pitches including concept art if possible; Creative teams, please provide a full pitch with first ten pages complete.

Crawford Coutts, Managing Director of Insomnia Publications said: “I am very excited about this show as we have come a long way since last year and proud to present our new line up of comics. This is just the beginning.”


The Bristol International Comic Expo 2008 will be held over the weekend of 10th and 11th May 2008 at the British Empire & Commonwealth Museum and the Ramada Plaza Hotel in Bristol, England, with an early bird film night on Friday 9th May. Full details are available on the official website, www.comicexpo.net – including ticket ordering details, just £6 for adults for each day, accompanied children free, ages 12-16 just one pound.

In the next update – Tony Lee vs Geek Syndicate – Rock And Roll Romance – Best New Manga 2 – Crikey! – Peckerwood – A Legion of Stupid Heroes – ImagineFX – Velica – Zip Gun Comics – And More – Not to mention finally, finally: the exact details of the special Expo Children’s Area are revealed – aka the Comics Village Fete, it’s suitable for children of all ages, including those of more advanced years who are just young at heart….
ROLLING ROADSHOW TOUR TO PAY TRIBUTE TO SERGIO LEONE 'DOLLARS' TRILOGY WITH SPECIAL SCREENINGS IN SOUTHERN SPAIN PRESENTED BY THE MGM CHANNEL AND TEUVE

June 6-8 Event in Almeria, Spain Marks First-Ever
Rolling Roadshow Tour Held Outside the U.S.

Rolling Roadshow media inquires please contact tim@originalalamo.com
Details, directions and FAQ are available at http://www.rollingroadshow.com

Austin, TX April 18, 2008 The Alamo Drafthouse Cinema unveiled its plans today for the 2008 installment of the Rolling Roadshow Tour, the organization's annual traveling film screening series. This year's event takes place June 6-8 and will pay tribute to MGM's classic Sergio Leone “Dollars” Spaghetti Western trilogy, with screenings of Fistful of Dollars, For a Few Dollars More and The Good, The Bad and The Ugly, in Almeria, Southern Spain, the original location where all three films where shot. Leone's epics launched the career of four-time Oscar®-winner Clint Eastwood who set a precedent for the genre - and the generation - with his portrayal of the original anti-hero: “The Man With No Name.”

The Rolling Roadshow: Leone Edition is presented by The MGM Channel and Teuve in Spain. The screening schedule follows:

June 6: Fistful of Dollars
June 7: For a Few Dollars More
June 8: The Good, The Bad and The Ugly

"For the past three summers, we have taken the Rolling Roadshow Tour across the United States, logging more than 30,000 miles traveling to the most famous movie locations in America," says Alamo Drafthouse Cinema founder Tim League. "This summer we are expanding the vision of the Rolling Roadshow Tour further than we ever imagined, to one of the most important cinematic locales of the 20th Century."

Admission to screenings are free to the general public and following each of the screenings the Rolling Roadshow Tour, The MGM Channel and Teuve will host a reception toasting Sergio Leone, a true maestro of cinema.

The Rolling Roadshow Tour
Every summer, the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema takes to the road, departing from Austin, Texas on a whirlwind tour, hosting free 35mm screenings of famous movies in famous places. Known as The Rolling Roadshow Tour, the organization has been to the Field of Dreams in Iowa to show Field of Dreams with Kevin Costner live in person, Devil's Tower in Wyoming for a screening of Close Encounters of the 3rd Kind and Alcatraz Island for a screening of Escape From Alcatraz.

The Leone "Dollars" Trilogy
In 1964, Sergio Leone, an assistant director of Italian "sword and sandal" movies traveled to the Almeria region of Spain to shoot a small film based on Akira Kurosawa's samurai adventure Yojimbo. The leading man was an unknown American bit-part television actor who at 34 years old was well past his matinee-idol potential. The film, was A Fistful of Dollars; the actor, Clint Eastwood. No one could have imagined the explosive force of this seemingly modest film. Sergio Leone is now considered by many film historians to be one of the most influential directors of all time. Few films have reshaped the visual style of cinema more than Sergio Leone's quintessential "Spaghetti Western" trilogy, and even fewer films elevate the filming location to the status on par with lead actor. Like John Ford's American southwest, Leone's Almeria region plays a vital role in shaping the emotion and spirit of his films. Leone's stylistic and graphic depictions of the Old West elevated a marginalized genre to an art form and influenced today's filmmakers.

About The Alamo Drafthouse
Founded in 1997 by Tim and Karrie League in Austin, Texas, the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema combines new release films, repertory programming and a variety of unique special events all under one roof, as well as full food and beverage menu served right to your seat. The Alamo Drafthouse Cinema was named the "#1 Theater in America" by Entertainment Weekly Magazine. Founders Tim and Karrie League will be travelling with the Rolling Roadshow to Almeria to host the Leone Edition of the Rolling Roadshow Tour.

About MGM Networks
MGM Networks manages Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc.'s interests in MGM-branded networks, Hollywood film studio joint venture channels and other programming services spanning scores of markets across Europe, North and South America, Asia, Oceana and Africa. For more information, visit www.mgmchannel.com.

About Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Inc.
Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Inc., through its operating subsidiaries is actively engaged in the worldwide production and distribution of motion pictures, television programming, home video, interactive media, music, and licensed merchandise. The company owns the world's largest library of modern films, comprising around 4,100 titles. Operating units including Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc., Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures Inc., United Artists Films Inc., Ventanazul, MGM Television Entertainment Inc., MGM Networks Inc., MGM Distribution Co., MGM International Television Distribution Inc., Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Home Entertainment LLC, MGM ON STAGE, MGM Music, MGM Consumer Products and MGM Interactive. In addition, MGM has ownership interests in international TV channels reaching over 120 countries and territories around the world. MGM ownership is currently as follows: Providence Equity Partners (29%), Texas Pacific Group (21%), Sony Corporation of America (20%), Comcast (20%), DLJ Merchant Banking Partners (7%) and Quadrangle Group (3%). For more information, visit www.mgm.com.

About TEUVE
TEUVE has an eight-year career in the Pay-TV sector including an important involvement in digital TV platforms by satellite and DTT (Digital terrestrian Television). TEUVE has grown to become currently one of the most importants providers in the Iberian Pay-TV Market available on the main cable and IPTV platforms. It produces and distributes ten TV channels as well as their linked services: TV on demand offer, mobile contains offer.
TEUVE is one of the biggest thematic channels producers in Spain; it produces six cinema channels (CINESTAR, EXTREME, DARK, MGM, SOMOS, CINEMATK y CANAL 18) and five entertainment channels (PACHA TV, NATURA, BUZZ, KIDSCO & TELECORAZÓN). All of them are in the different cable network in Spain and are available in 1,8 million homes.

If you are planning to visit the area and stay for a while in the Almeria region, contact Tuco Tours (http://www.tucotours.com), who offer tours of all of the Sergio Leone locations.
Calling All Nerds!

Just a quick blast to let you know our official signing schedule for this year's New York Comic-Con. Lots of exciting dudes (and one lovely dudette) will be at our booth providing their autographs, conversation, and maybe even some hugs. Stop by Nerdcore (booth 1761) and claim what's geekily yours!



Saturday, April 19

12 to 2pm
2008 Nerdcore Calendar signing
Geek supergoddess JUSTINE JOLI will be signing the 2008 Nerdcore Calendar: Heroes/Villains.





2 to 3pm
Meathaus: S.O.S. signing
Meet some of the contributors of the coolest comics anthology on the planet, and be among the very first in the world to own a copy of Meathaus: S.O.S. (seriously, only 100 will be released at the con). TOMER HANUKA, FAREL DALRYMPLE, THOMAS HERPICH, JIM CAMPBELL, and CHRIS McD will be signing.


Sunday, April 20

2 to 3pm
Meathaus: S.O.S. signing
The totally awesome James Jean will be signing his totally awesome contribution to Meathaus: S.O.S. Don't miss it!


Hopefully we'll see you there!



Yours nerdly,


The Nerdcore Crew
totallynerdcore.com
[PRESS] DEVIL'S DUE ANNOUNCES NYCC BOOTH SIGNINGS

Milo Ventimiglia, Larry Hama, and Mark Powers among big names signing this weekend at the Jacob Javits Center



Chicago, IL. (April 17, 2008) – This weekend at New York Comic Con, Devil's Due will bring its brightest talents to Booth #1156 for signing and sketching sessions. In addition to Devil's Due President Josh Blaylock and Hack/Slash writer/creator Tim Seeley, writers Larry Hama (G.I. Joe, Spooks: Omega Team) and Mark Powers (Drafted) will appear. Look for these and other creators at the following times:



FRIDAY, APRIL 18

3:00-5:00: Josh Blaylock

4:00-6:00: Larry Hama

4:00-6:00: Drew Johnson

5:00-7:00: Tim Seeley



SATURDAY, APRIL 19

11:00-1:00: Mark Powers

11:00-12:00: Josh Blaylock

12:00-2:00: Tim Seeley

1:00-2:00: Matthew Tomao

2:00-3:30: Milo Ventimiglia

5:00-6:00: Mark Powers

5:00-6:00: Drew Johnson



SUNDAY, APRIL 20

11:00-1:00: Tim Seeley

1:00-2:00: Matthew Tomao

2:00-3:00: Drew Johnson

1:00-3:00: Josh Blaylock

3:00-4:00: Tim Seeley


For more information, please visit www.devilsdue.net and www.spooksthecomic.com.


# # #

About Devil's Due Publishing:
A proliferator of comic-pop culture, DDP is one of the largest and most popular comic book publishers in North America, with a diverse line-up of both original and licensed properties. Based in Chicago and Los Angeles, DDP has many projects in development for film and television with major studios including 20th Century Fox, ABC Family, and Rogue Pictures. DDP's titles include Drafted, Lost Squad, Sheena: Queen of the Jungle, Dungeons & Dragons, DemonWars, Voltron, and the cult-favorite Hack/Slash. The company recently launched a line of cutting edge designer toys and life accessories under the imprint DDPOP, found in specialty stores this Summer.





Devil's Due: reminding everyone that "Pop culture IS our culture". For
more information on Devil's Due Publishing, please
visit http://devilsdue.net.

Thursday, April 17, 2008

VIZ MEDIA ANNOUNCES AN ARRAY OF EXCITING PLANS FOR 2008 NEW YORK COMIC CON INCLUDING STAN LEE PRESS EVENT

Company Will Welcome Comics Legend For A Special Press Event On Historic New Manga Collaboration As Well As Offer Attendees A Relaxing Manga Lounge And A Variety Of Screenings And Insightful Panel Discussions

NEW YORK, NY, April 18, 2008 – VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), one of the entertainment industry's most innovative and comprehensive publishing, animation and licensing companies, has announced its plans to participate in a variety of exhibits, special events, programming, panels and related industry roundtable discussions at the 2008 New York Comic Con, taking place April 18-20 at the Jacob Javits Convention Center in Manhattan. New York Comic Con has emerged as the East Coast's biggest and most popular pop culture convention covering the latest in comics, graphic novels, anime, manga, video games, toys, movies, and television.

VIZ Media will welcome comics legend Stan Lee, creator of numerous iconic superheroes including Spider-Man, the Fantastic Four, and the X-Men, for a very special press event on April 18 in Room#1E09 to discuss ULTIMO – the historic collaboration between Lee and with Hiroyuki Takei, the creator of the popular SHAMAN KING manga series, published in North America by VIZ Media. The event, attended by Stan Lee, Takanori Asada (Editor, Jump SQ.), and SHONEN JUMP Editor-in-Chief Marc Weidenbaum, will highlight the collaboration and shed further light on the development of ULTIMO and the partnership with Hiroyuki Takei, as well as announce exciting news not yet shared regarding this title.

VIZ Media will also be present on the main show floor with a Manga Lounge in Booth#1365 where a comprehensive selection of some of the hottest manga series sweeping Japan and North America will be available for visitors to read at their leisure.

VIZ Media's Sr. Vice President Liza Coppola will be participating in the "The State of The Manga Industry" panel to take place on Friday, April 18th at 1:00 p.m. in Room # 1E16. Another VIZ Media Panel that will preview a variety of upcoming releases is scheduled for Saturday, April 19 at 11:00 a.m. in Room 1E03, where VIZ Media’s Director of Marketing, Mark Chang, will be joined by Candice Uyloan, Product Manager, and Simon & Schuster’s Nichole Beaulieu for an insightful discussion and question/answer session on what new titles fans may expect throughout 2008.

Screenings are always a popular attraction at New York Comic Con, and VIZ Media will offer two episodes from the action series BLEACH (rated T for Teens), on Friday, April 18 from 4:00-5:00 p.m. in Room 1E15 and two episodes of the hit crime drama DEATH NOTE (rated T+ for Older Teens), on Friday, April 18 from 7:00-8:00 p.m. also in Room 1E07.

VIZ Media will also return as a sponsor and participant in pop culture publishing and consulting company ICv2’s annual Graphic Novel Conference taking place on Thursday, April 17, just prior to the opening of the convention. This trade-only industry event will examine a range of important topics including “Graphic Novels for Tweens,” which will focus on the fast-growing tween market for graphic novels and include commentary by VIZ Media’s Sr. Vice President, Liza Coppola.

“We are extremely pleased to return to New York Comic Con and participate in a variety of events,” says Evelyn Dubocq, Sr. Director, Public Relations. “Welcoming the legendary Stan Lee for a special press conference related to the new project ULTIMO will be a huge attraction and press attendees can expect some additional big news to be announced at the event. We also invite fans to relax and decompress from the frenzy of the show in our Manga Lounge, which will be stocked with samplers of hit VIZ Media series. This, combined with our participation in panels, screenings and more should make for a very exciting show this year.”

About VIZ Media, LLC
Headquartered in San Francisco, CA, VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), is one of the most comprehensive and innovative companies in the field of manga (graphic novel) publishing, animation and entertainment licensing of Japanese content. Owned by three of Japan’s largest creators and licensors of manga and animation, Shueisha Inc., Shogakukan Inc., and Shogakukan Production Co., Ltd. (ShoPro Japan), VIZ Media is a leader in the publishing and distribution of Japanese manga for English speaking audiences in North America and a global licensor of Japanese manga and animation. The company offers an integrated product line including, magazines such as SHONEN JUMP and SHOJO BEAT, graphic novels, videos, DVDs and audio soundtracks and develops and markets animated entertainment from initial production, television placement and distribution, to merchandise licensing and promotions for audiences and consumers of all ages. Contact VIZ Media at 295 Bay Street, San Francisco, CA 94133; Phone (415) 546-7073; Fax (415) 546-7086; and web site at www.VIZ.com.
Don't miss Kyle Baker at booth #2441 at the Third Annual New York Comic Con! April 18th – 20th, 2008

He’ll be selling copies of THE BAKERS: BABIES & KITTENS (Image) – nominated for an Eisner (Best Writer/Artist-Humor)! - selling sketches and displaying his award-winning animation on a giant flat-screen TV!

For more information about the convention check out the official NYCC website: http://www.nycomiccon.com

Cheers!

PS Ask Kyle about his recent trip to the West Coast...

latest kb books: THE BAKERS: BABIES & KITTENS (Image)
THE BAKERS: DO THESE TOYS BELONG SOMEWHERE? (Image)
SPECIAL FORCES #1 & #2 (Image)
coming soon: SPECIAL FORCES #3 (Image)
myspace: http://www.myspace.com/qualityjollity
blog: http://thebakersanimationcartoons.blogspot.com/
eye candy: http://www.kylebaker.com/
newsletter: http://www.kylebaker.com/www/newsletter/newsletter.htm
Zenescope lowers price on Queen of Hearts one-shot

Zenescope Entertainment originally planned to release all three of their TALES FROM WONDERLAND One-Shots at a $3.99 cover price due to the additional pages of story included in each issue but last minute decided to keep a $2.99 price for the Queen of Hearts story which hits stores next Wednesday. “We had meant to let retailers know ahead of time about the higher cover price for the one-shots in case they didn’t notice the price increase when placing their orders but realized that we didn’t get the information out in time. Instead we decided to keep this first issue at $2.99 to avoid any confusion.” said Zenescope President Joe Brusha. “We take pride in the relationship we have with retailers and consumers and we want to make sure they’re kept in the loop as much as possible.”

TALES FROM WONDERLAND is a disturbing and insightful series of one-shots which follow the back-stories of three main characters from Zenescope’s popular RETURN TO WONDERLAND. The much anticipated sequel to the Return series, entitled BEYOND WONDERLAND, is due out this summer. The remaining Tales one-shots (Mad Hatter and Alice) will be listed at $3.99 each and will include additional pages of story.
Gnome invades comic shops and rewards retailers!

The all new original graphic novel/la, Super Real Graphics Presents:
GNOME,
hits comic book shops today. Additionally, publisher Super Real
Graphics and
creator Dave Dwonch are proud to announce the winning retailer in the
friends of Gnome retailer promotion, Titan Games, of Battle Creek
Michigan,
who will receive the original artwork from the limited edition print
which
was sent out to participating shops who ordered and support Gnome!

You can visit the book’s website for full details on the list of
shops who
carry Gnome and offer the limited edition print, as well as link to
reviews
and check out previews and more:
http://superrealgraphics.com/Gnome.html


About Gnome:

Gnome is a tale that promises to enchant fans of all ages, from creator
Dave
Dwonch (Special Education), and cover artist Super Ugly.

Gnomes are real! Believed to be simple yard decorations, these
“Garden
Gnomes” once roamed the Earth as its greatest protectors. Long ago a
curse
was placed upon them, petrifying them until the day they were needed to

protect the Earth once more. In 1956 the world was in peril… and one
lonely
gnome answered the call

Super Real Graphics Presents: GNOME
64 pages, digest sized (6x9), Full Color, $6.99
DIAMOND ORDER CODE FEB084007


ARMY OF GNOME RETAILER DIRECTORY
http://www.superrealgraphics.com/2008/02/friends-of-gnome-comic-shop-directory.html

GNOME PREVIEW
http://www.superrealgraphics.com/2008/01/gnome-preview-pages.html

GNOME REVIEWS
http://www.superrealgraphics.com/2008/03/gnome-reviews.html

http://superrealgraphics.com/

##################

Artwork links

http://www.superrealgraphics.com/uploaded_images/flyer_front_sml-776152.jpg
http://www.superrealgraphics.com/uploaded_images/flyer_back_final_sml-753968.jpg

Thanks,
Jason Martin
Publisher - Super Real Graphics

SuperRealGraphics.com
PRESS] DEVIL'S DUE PUBLISHING BRINGS MILO VENTIMIGLIA TO NEW YORK COMIC CON!

Ventimiglia and Divide Pictures Partner Russ Cundiff Will Sign at DDP Booth to Promote Top-Secret New Project!

Chicago, IL. (April 16, 2008) – Devil's Due Publishing is proud to announce that Milo Ventimiglia (Star of TV's Heroes and the upcoming film Pathology) and Russ Cundiff (Producer of It's a Mall World) will be making a special appearance at this weekend's New York Comic Con to promote a top-secret new comic book project!

Ventimiglia and Cundiff will be signing autographs for fans from 2:00pm until 3:30pm on Saturday at the DDP booth (#1156), and at 4:00pm in Room 1E07 they will be joined by DDP staff for a panel making the official announcement of their new project.


For more information, please visit www.devilsdue.net or contact Brian Warmoth at b.warmoth@devilsdue.net


# # #

About Devil's Due Publishing:
After exploding on the comic book scene by igniting the "80s retro
revival" in the industry, Devil's Due quickly became one of the largest
and most popular comic book publishers in the United States. Today DDP's
lineup is a diverse mix of original properties and licensed books
including Drafted, Lost Squad, Sheena: Queen of the Jungle, G.I. Joe,
Storm Shadow, Dragonlance, Forgotten Realms, DemonWars, Voltron, The Nye
Incidents, and the cult-favorite Hack/Slash, which is currently in
pre-production as a feature film for Rogue Pictures.

Devil's Due: reminding everyone that "Pop culture IS our culture". For
more information on Devil's Due Publishing, please
visit http://devilsdue.net.

Wednesday, April 16, 2008

VILLARD MOUSE GUARD CORRECTION
Eisner Award misstatement

Kearny, NJ -- Apr 16, 2008 -- ASP wanted to make MOUSE GUARD readers and fans worldwide aware of an attribution error on Villard’s recently released trade paperback edition of MOUSE GUARD: FALL 1152 (ISBN: 978-0-345-49686-7, $17.95). On the cover of their edition, it is incorrectly noted that author David Petersen was the recipient of an Eisner.

In actuality, Petersen won the 2007 Russ Manning Most Promising Newcomer Award, which is presented by Comic-Con International and the West Coast Comics Club during the Will Eisner Comic Industry Awards ceremony, but it is not considered to be an Eisner Award. Villard Books sincerely apologizes for this mistake.

ASP’s hardcover edition of MOUSE GUARD: FALL 1152 (ISBN 978-1-932386-57-8; $24.95; a 192-page, full-color, hardcover graphic novel) collects the first 6-issue MOUSE GUARD series and includes 12 pages of bonus material. In MOUSE GUARD: FALL 1152 we are introduced to the fearless guards Saxon, Kenzie, and Lieam, dispatched to find a missing merchant mouse that never arrived at his destination. In this fanciful, dangerous and medieval world, where mice struggle to live safely and prosper among all of the world’s harsh conditions and predators, Saxon, Kenzie, and Lieam stumble onto much more than they bargained for…intrigue, betrayal, and a deadly, traitorous plot to overthrow the stronghold of Lockhaven.

All ASP titles are available worldwide at finer comic book shops, bookstores, amazon.com, Indie Press Revolution (www.indiepressrevolution.com) and electronically at DriveThruComics.com.

ABOUT ARCHAIA STUDIOS PRESS
Mark Smylie founded Archaia Studios Press (ASP) in 2002 as a new home for his epic fantasy comic book, Artesia (first published by Sirius Entertainment). Artesia, winner of ForeWord Magazine’s Best Graphic Novel of 2003, and its sequels -- Artesia Afield and Artesia Afire -- gave ASP its foundation. Artesia: Adventures in The Known World, a roleplaying game written by Mark, expanded ASP into the world of gaming; the game won the Origins Award for Role-Playing Game of 2005. Now Mark and publishing partner Aki Liao have expanded ASP to include a line of idiosyncratic and creator-driven comic books and graphic novels in the fantasy, science fiction, and horror genres, as well as translations of several of Europe’s best titles. More information can be found at www.aspcomics.com.
PRESS RELEASE - IMAGE COMICS TAKES MANHATTAN!
Image Comics makes its first full debut at this years' New York Comic Con!


15 April 2008 (Berkeley, CA) - This upcoming weekend, Image Comics makes its first full debut at New York Comic Con, celebrating with an announcement packed panel and guests galore!


"For whatever reason New York has been a tough city to hold a convention, but the folks behind the New York Comic Con have pulled it off better than anyone could imagine," said Image Comics Publisher Erik Larsen. "I've really enjoyed every year I've attended and thought it was long past time Image Comics had a complete set up, including one of our now famous Image Comics Shows!"


In addition to signings with creators such as AMORY WARS/Coheed Cambria's Claudio Sanchez, SPECIAL FORCES' Kyler Baker, DYNAMO 5's Jay Faerber, BILLY DOGMA's Dean Haspiel, SUBURBAN GLAMOUR's Jamie McKelvie, Shadowline President Jim Valentino and Image Comics Publisher & SAVAGE DRAGON creator Erik Larsen fans will also be able to purchase a selection of Image's library, which includes what may be the very last opportunity to ever buy an original, first printing WALKING DEAD VOL. 1 DELUXE HC.


Furthermore, this years' Image Comics Show (Saturday at 2-3 PM, ROOM: 1E16) features three generations of Image creators discussing the rise of creator owned comics and what it means for the future of the industry. Panelists include Image founders, Erik Larsen & Jim Valentino, DYNAMO 5's Jay Faerber and newer names such as AMORY WARS' Claudio Sanchez & HAZED's Mark Sable. It wouldn't be an Image Comics Show without a number of announcements, including the biggest change on SPAWN since Todd McFarlane left the title.


The New York Comic Con will take place Friday, March 18th to Sunday March 20th. Image Comics can be found at booth 1407.


Image Comics is a comics and graphic novels publisher formed in 1992 by a collective of best-selling artists. Since that time, Image has gone on to become one of the largest comics publishers in the United States. There are currently four partners in Image Comics (Erik Larsen, Todd McFarlane, Marc Silvestri and Jim Valentino), and Image is currently divided into four major houses (Todd McFarlane Productions, Top Cow Productions, Shadowline and Image Central). Image comics and graphic novels cover nearly every genre, sub-genre and style imaginable, offering science fiction, romance, horror, crime fiction, historical fiction, humor and more by the finest artists and writers working in the medium today. Visit www.imagecomics.com.

Tuesday, April 15, 2008

NBM & Papercutz at NYCC
Scott Lobdell, Ted Rall, Phil Yeh, and Other Creators at the New York
Comic Con

NBM Publishing is bringing some of its top writers and artists to the
New York Comic Con. Meet them and see their new and upcoming work at
the NBM-Papercutz booth (#1917).

Among the stars at the booth:
• TED RALL (SILK ROAD TO RUIN, GENERALISSIMO EL BUSHO), showing pages
from his next book, THE YEAR OF LOVING DANGEROUSLY
• DAVID AXE (the award-winning WAR FIX), with the forthcoming LOVE AND

TERROR
• PHIL YEH (the fun geography comic DINOSAURS ACROSS AMERICA)
• STEPHANIE McMILLAN (ATTITUDE: The New Subversive Political
Cartoonists), creator of the strip MINIMUM SECURITY

NBM’s sister company, the kids’ comics publisher Papercutz, proudly
presents:
• STEFAN PETRUCHA, writer of NANCY DREW
• SCOTT LOBDELL, writer of THE HARDY BOYS

The New York Comic Con (www.nycomiccon.com) takes place from Friday,
April 18, through Sunday, April 20, at Jacob K. Javits Center. The
Javits Center is located at 655 West 34th Street in midtown Manhattan.

The NBM booth, #1917, is located near the Random House, Zenescope, Del
Rey, and Creative Impulse booths.
BOOM! Studios NYCC 2008 Signings:
BOOTH # 845

Breaking News! Now Signing:


Rafael Albuquerque, cover artist on 2 GUNS, artist on SAVAGE BROTHERS
Paul Azaceta, artist on POTTER'S FIELD
Kevin Church, co-writer of COVER GIRL
J.M. DeMatteis, writer and co-creator of STARDUST KID and HEROES SQUARED
Michael Fiffe, artist on FALL OF CTHULHU
Tim Hamilton, artist on DOMINION and FALL OF CTHULHU
Mike Leib, writer of TAG: CURSED
Chip Mosher, writer/creator LEFT ON MISSION
Michael Alan Nelson, writer of FALL OF CTHULHU / DOMINION / X ISLE / SECOND WAVE
Cris Peter, colorist on SAVAGE BROTHERS
Tom Sniegoski, writer and co-creator of TALENT
Wilfredo Torres, artist on SALEM: QUEEN OF THORNS
Mark Waid, writer of POTTER'S FIELD - SATURDAY ONLY!


Friday April 18th
3pm-4pm - Kevin Church - COVER GIRL, WHAT WERE THEY THINKING?!
4pm-5pm - Michael Alan Nelson - FALL OF CTHULHU / DOMINION / X ISLE / SECOND WAVE
5pm-6pm - Chip Mosher - LEFT ON MISSION
6pm-7pm - Mike Leib - TAG: CURSED
Wilfredo Torres - SALEM: QUEEN OF THORNS
7pm-8pm - TALENT Signing with writer/co-creator Tom Sniegoski & artist Paul Azaceta


Saturday April 19th
10am-11am - Mike Leib - TAG: CURSED
11am-12pm - J.M. DeMatteis - STARDUST KID- both TPB & HC will be in stock!
12pm-1pm - FALL OF CTHULHU / DOMINION signing with writer Michael Alan Nelson and artists Tim Hamilton & Michael Fiffe
1pm -2pm - POTTER'S FIELD / TALENT Signing! Featuring Mark Waid, writer of POTTER'S FIELD, Tom Sniegoski, writer of TALENT and Paul Azaceta, artist on both POTTER'S FIELD & TALENT!
2pm-3pm - Rafael Albuquerque - cover artist on 2 GUNS, artist on SAVAGE BROTHERS and Cris Peter - colorist on SAVAGE BROTHERS
3pm-4pm - Wilfredo Torres - SALEM: QUEEN OF THORNS
4pm-5pm - Kevin Church - COVER GIRL, WHAT WERE THEY THINKING?!
5pm-6pm - BOOM PANEL - Join Mark Waid, Ross Richie and Chip Mosher for special announcements that will make your head explode in Room 1E09!


Sunday April 20th
10am-11am - Michael Alan Nelson - FALL OF CTHULHU / DOMINION / X ISLE / SECOND WAVE
Kevin Church - COVER GIRL, WHAT WERE THEY THINKING?!
11am-12pm - Mike Leib - TAG: CURSED
12pm-1pm - Chip Mosher - LEFT ON MISSION
2pm-3pm - TALENT Signing with writer/co-creator Tom Sniegoski & artist Paul Azaceta


Keep watching www.boom-studios.com/blog for signing updates!
ASP ANNOUNCES ITS NEW YORK COMIC CON INVASION
Over 15 creators at the ASP booth

Kearny, NJ -- Apr 14, 2008 -- ASP announces its plan for this year’s New York Comic Con (Apr 18-20). We’ll not only have creator appearances galore at our booth #1713, but also be participating in a few panels as well.

Panels
**A. David Lewis, hot on the heels of his Graven Images conference (http://www.bu.edu/luce/calendar/religionincomics.html), will be moderating a panel on Saturday, Apr 19 at 5 p.m. in room 1E02. It's a discussion of Chris Knowles's book Our Gods Wear Spandex. G. Willow Wilson will be on the panel with Dave, along with Douglas Rushkoff (Testament) and Denny O'Neil.

**David Petersen (Mouse Guard) and Mark Smylie (Artesia) will be on the panel Let the Magic Begin -- Fantasy in Comics: Creating Alternate Worlds on Sunday, Apr 20 at 1 p.m. in room 1E03, along with Kazu Kibuishi (Flight, Amulet) and librarian and graphic novel expert Robin Brenner. Moderated by Liz Gorinsky.

Creator Appearances
Want to meet the creator of your favorite ASP book? Want to get your book signed? Want a quick sketch? Then check out this list of creators appearing at the ASP booth #1713:

Jeremy Bastian, creator of CURSED PIRATE GIRL
Jason Becker, writer of KILLING PICKMAN
Rebekah Brem, creator of MISERICORDIA
Chandra Free, creator of THE GOD MACHINE
Kate Glasheen, artist of HYBRID BASTARDS!
Josh Hechinger, writer of THE GRAVE DOUG FRESHLEY
A. David Lewis, writer of THE LONE AND LEVEL SANDS, SOME NEW KIND OF SLAUGHTER
Marvin Mann, artist of THE LONE AND LEVEL SANDS, SOME NEW KIND OF SLAUGHTER, THE GRAVE DOUG FRESHLEY, INANNA’S TEARS
Alexis “Matz” Nolent, writer THE KILLER
David Petersen, creator of MOUSE GUARD
Rob Randle, writer of THE BLACK KNIGHT
Jennifer Rodgers, colorist of THE LONE AND LEVEL SANDS
Dave Rodriguez, writer of STARKWEATHER: IMMORTAL
Mark Smylie, creator of ARTESIA
Nick Tapalansky and Alex Eckman-Lawn, creators of AWAKENING
Brandon Thomas, writer of MIRANDA MERCURY
Juda Tverski, creator of TRIAL BY FIRE
Sean Wang, creator of RUNNERS

ABOUT ARCHAIA STUDIOS PRESS
Mark Smylie founded Archaia Studios Press (ASP) in 2002 as a new home for his epic fantasy comic book, Artesia (first published by Sirius Entertainment). Artesia, winner of ForeWord Magazine’s Best Graphic Novel of 2003, and its sequels -- Artesia Afield and Artesia Afire -- gave ASP its foundation. Artesia: Adventures in The Known World, a roleplaying game written by Mark, expanded ASP into the world of gaming; the game won the Origins Award for Role-Playing Game of 2005. Now Mark and publishing partner Aki Liao have expanded ASP to include a line of idiosyncratic and creator-driven comic books and graphic novels in the fantasy, science fiction, and horror genres, as well as translations of several of Europe’s best titles. More information can be found at www.aspcomics.com.
[PRESS] BALTAZAR AND AURELIANI BREAK OUT 'NINJATOWN' ANTICS IN JUNE

'Tiny Titans' creators tell the tales of Shawinmals' NinjaTown in 'Adventures of the Wee Ninja' from Devil's Due



Chicago, IL. (April 15, 2008) – This June, the tiny but mighty inhabitants of NinjaTown hit comic book shelves in a first ever full-length comic by Art Baltazar and Franco Aureliani (Tiny Titans). NinjaTown: Adventures of the Wee Ninja Vol 1 is a supersized, 48-page tale of the madcap Wee Ninjas, created and made famous as plush collectibles by Shawnimals.



Coinciding with the release of Devil's Due's exclusive Geeky Ninja plush toy, Adventures of the Wee Ninja will open the doors to creator Shawn Smith's action-packed world of subtly delivered humor with a fierce ninja edge and whole lot of heart. Co-written by Baltazar and Aureliani, who will collaborate artwork as well, Devil's Due's giant-sized premier will feature many of the characters already introduced in Shawnimal's hugely successful line of micro-plush Wee Ninjas.



In what is sizing up to be a huge year for the Wee Ninjas, Adventures of the Wee Ninja heralds a 2008 that also includes a new NinjaTown game headed for the Nintendo DS this fall. Both Devil's Due and Shawnimals will appear at New York Comic Con April 18-20.


For more information, please visit www.devilsdue.net and www.ninjatown.com.


# # #

About Devil's Due Publishing:
After exploding on the comic book scene by igniting the "80s retro
revival" in the industry, Devil's Due quickly became one of the largest
and most popular comic book publishers in the United States. Today DDP's
lineup is a diverse mix of original properties and licensed books
including Drafted, Lost Squad, Sheena: Queen of the Jungle, G.I. Joe,
Storm Shadow, Dragonlance, Forgotten Realms, DemonWars, Voltron, The Nye
Incidents, and the cult-favorite Hack/Slash, which is currently in
pre-production as a feature film for Rogue Pictures.

Devil's Due: reminding everyone that "Pop culture IS our culture". For
more information on Devil's Due Publishing, please
visit http://devilsdue.net.
Title: Captain Action Comics #1



Story: Fabian Nicieza, Marv Wolfman, Paul Kupperberg

Art: Marl Sparacio

Colors: James Brown

Covers: Mark Sparacio, Marat Mychaels, Ruben Procopio

32pgs, color, $3.99



The first issue of Cap’s ongoing super-spy thriller takes off here!

The new Captain Action has to take down the superhuman targets who have been co-opted by the Red Crawl. He’s got to put them out of commission in a hurry…by whatever means necessary. Cap learns there’s an extra bonus by using the dermaplast genetic manipulation gunk to disguise himself as someone else…but the bonus comes at a price! And yes, we know you’ve heard this before, but man-o-man, be ready for this SHOCKER of an ending!

**Also in this cant-miss issue, Moonstone’s first appearance of MANDRAKE the MAGICIAN by Mike Bullock!

Choose form either the “modern cover” by Mark Sparacio, or the “homage cover” (to DC’s Captain Action #1) by Marat Mychaels!



**Retailer incentive: for every 3 copies of Captain Caption Comics #1 you buy, you can purchase a copy of the retro variant cover by Ruben Procopio at $3.99 retail. **The Retro variant cover can also be purchased separately at $5.99 retail.

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

THE PHANTOM #26

Written by Mike Bullock

Art by Zeu and Silvestre Szilagyi

Colors by Bob Pedroza

Cover A by Zeu

LTD Ed Cover B by Andy Smith

32pgs, color, $3.99



"Man O' War"

Past collides with the present!

From the Chronicles of the 13th Phantom! While returning to the United States with his wife, Jeanette, The Ghost Who Walks finds himself embroiled in a battle with sea faring slave traders. Will The Phantom be able to free the enslaved members of the Llongo tribe, or join them in chains? And how does this tie in to the life of the 21st Phantom? Find out here!


***Retailers: for every three copies of Phantom #26 you buy, you can purchase 1 copy of the Phantom #26 LTD (limited to 400 copies) variant cover @ $3.99 retail.

***Retailers, Phantom #26 LTD edition can also be purchased separately, while supplies last, at $5.99 retail.

"Moonstone's Phantom stories just keep on getting better and better and better." – Chronicle Chamber

"If you've never read the adventures of the Phantom before, or if you've been away for a while, this is a great issue to get back on-board." – Comixtreme
PRESS RELEASE - EISNERS NOMINATE IMAGE COMICS!
Image Comics receives nine nominations in this years Eisner awards!


14 April 2008 (Berkeley, CA) - This past Monday, the nominations were announced for the 2008 Eisner Awards, with Image Comics garnering a total of nine nominations for nine different titles.


"We're especially proud of this year's nominations, as the the mix titles reflects the direction Image has taken over the last several years," said Image Comics Executive Director Eric Stephenson. "We're looking at nominations for creators old and new, in genres ranging from all-ages humor to political thrillers and just about everything in-between."


This year's nominations are easily Image's most varied and eclectic in sometme with new creators such as Jonathan Hickman (Best Limited Series - THE NIGHTLY NEWS) and Michael Cavallaro (Best Limited Series - PARADE (WITH FIREWORKS)) up for awards alongside veterans like Kyle Baker (Best Writer/Artist - THE BAKERS: BABIES AND KITTENS) and Joe Casey (Best Graphic Album - Reprint: GØDLAND CELESTIAL EDITION). Also featured are two titles spotlighting a number of creators, 24SEVEN, VOL. 2 for Best Anthology and LUCHA LIBRE for Best Humor Publication. Others include THE INFINITE HORIZON by Gerry Duggan and Phil Noto for Best New Series, PX! BOOK ONE: A GIRL AND HER PANDA by Many Trembley and Eric A. Anderson for Best Publication for Teens and Ben Tempelsmith in a shared Best Painter or Multimedia Artist for his work on FELL.


Winners will be announced on Friday, July 25th during the ceremony at San Diego Comic Con International. More information about the Eisner Awards can be found at http://www.comic-con.org/cci/cci_eisners_main.shtml.


Image Comics is a comics and graphic novels publisher formed in 1992 by a collective of best-selling artists. Since that time, Image has gone on to become one of the largest comics publishers in the United States. There are currently four partners in Image Comics (Erik Larsen, Todd McFarlane, Marc Silvestri, and Jim Valentino), and Image is currently divided into four major houses (Todd McFarlane Productions, Top Cow Productions, Shadowline, and Image Central). Image comics and graphic novels cover nearly every genre, sub-genre, and style imaginable, offering science fiction, romance, horror, crime fiction, historical fiction, humor, and more by the finest artists and writers working in the medium today. Visit www.imagecomics.com.
Dallas proclaims May 3rd Free Comic Book Day in a Dallas in honor of CAPE.



April 14th – For the third year in a row, the city of Dallas proclaims the first weekend in May “Free Comic Book Day” in honor of CAPE, the comic and pop-culture expo. CAPE 4 (www.capeday.com) takes place on Saturday May 3rd at Craddock Park from 10am-6pm in the heart of Dallas. This festival of comic and comic art includes more than 80 comic book writers and artists for a free afternoon in the park. With several thousand attendees and over seven thousand free comics, CAPE has grown to be the world’s largest Free Comic Book Day event.



“It’s an incredible honor for my hometown to recognize my work and the work of my peers while we reach out to the community for CAPE,” said Scott Kurtz, CAPE host and creator of the web strip PVP.



Kurtz will also be celebrating the 10th anniversary of his web strip PVP at CAPE. The marriage of the two prominent PVP characters will be marked at the event by a wedding guest’s registry book. “I would like to invite all of my fans and the CAPE attendees to sign the guest book for Brent and Jade,” said Kurtz.



This year’s list of CAPE guest comic book artists and writers includes the new additions Daniel Way, (Wolverine Origins and Ghost Rider) and Andy Kuhn (Firebreather and Marvel Team-Up). They join industry giants Mark Waid, Chynna Clugston, Robert Kirkman, Greg Pak, Jason Pearson, Gail Simone and David Mack. With over 80 guests, CAPE! just keeps getting bigger and bigger! For a complete list of guests and to view the proclamation go to www.capeday.com.



CAPE 4 takes place at Craddock Park on Saturday, May 3rd, 2007 from 10am – 6pm coincides with the Free Comic Book Day events taking place all over the world. CAPE! festivities allow fans a chance to interact with top creators in the comic industry, get sketches, talk comics and pick up some fantastic free goodies including 7,000 free comics and much more!

CAPE 4 is hosted by Popsyndicate, PVPonline and Zeus Comics. The event is also supported by sponsors the Art Institute of Dallas, Martini Lab, Liquid Logixx, Christon Company, Courtyard Marriot, the Marvel Zombie Society APA and Korn, Bowdich and Diaz.

For more information on CAPE or if you are a comic professional who wants to attend please visit www.capeday.com or call Zeus comics at 214-219-TOYS.

Monday, April 14, 2008

VIZ PICTURES AND NCM FATHOM BRING LIVE ACTION DEATH NOTE FEATURE TO THE BIG SCREEN FOR
ONLY TWO NIGHTS IN NORTH AMERICAN DEBUT

Special Two-Night Event Will be Shown in Select Theatres Nationwide

San Francisco, CA, April 14, 2008 – VIZ Pictures, an affiliate of VIZ Media, LLC that focuses on Japanese live-action film distribution, has announced that it will team with NCM FATHOM, the entertainment division of National CineMedia, to present a special two-night multi-city debut at over 300 theatres across the United States for the live-action special event DEATH NOTE on May 20 and 21, at 7:30 pm. local time.

This special two-night event includes a specially produced 20-minute feature on how the manga translates to live action as well as the first-ever interview with Director Shusuke Kaneko.

Advance purchase tickets will be available from April 18th through April 20th to all subscribers of the SHONEN JUMP e-mail newsletter (sign-up is available at www.shonenjump.com). Tickets for the general public will be available starting on April 21st at presenting theatre box offices and online at www.FathomEvents.com. For a complete list of theatre locations and prices, please visit the www.FathomEvents.com website (theatres are subject to change).

DEATH NOTE is based on the hit supernatural action mystery manga series written by Tsugumi Ohba and illustrated by Takeshi Obata. The live-action film, directed by Shusuke Kaneko, known as the director of popular monster film “Gamera” series, was released in Japan in 2006 and mirrors the manga’s story of Light Yagami, an ace student with great prospects who is bored out of his mind. All of that changes when he finds the Death Note, a notebook dropped by a rogue Shinigami death god named Ryuk. Any human whose name is written in the notebook dies, and now Light has vowed to use the power of the Death Note to rid the world of evil. But when criminals mysteriously begin dropping dead, the authorities send the legendary detective L to investigate, and he is soon hot on the trail of Light, who must now reevaluate his one noble goal. Both Light and L believe themselves to be on the side of justice, and the two match wits trying to show exactly which of them is "good" and which of them is "evil."

Presented by NCM Fathom and VIZ Pictures, the DEATH NOTE live action feature appears on the big screen in high-definition with Cinema Surround Sound in select locations throughout the U.S., screening in more than 300 select AMC, Cinemark USA Inc., Georgia Theatre Company, Goodrich Quality Theaters, Kerasotes ShowPlace Theatres, Loeks Movie Theatres & Cinema, National Amusements and Regal Entertainment Group movie theatres through NCM’s Digital Broadcast Network.

“NCM Fathom is excited to partner with VIZ once again to bring such a unique event to the big screen for ‘DEATH NOTE’ fans across the country,” said Dan Diamond, vice president of NCM Fathom. “’DEATH NOTE’ is a perfect fit for NCM Fathom’s line-up of alternative in-theatre entertainment of all types – from anime, music concerts, extreme sports, comedy, children’s programming, the Metropolitan Opera and more.”

The DEATH NOTE manga and animated series have become extremely popular domestically. The 37-episode animated series is seen by millions each week on cable broadcast and the series is also distributed on DVD by VIZ Media (rated T+ for Older Teens). On the print side, DEATH NOTE 13: HOW TO READ, a companion volume to the successful manga series, also published domestically by VIZ Media, was recently ranked in USA Today's Top 150 list of America's best-selling books in February.

“DEATH NOTE is a riveting and critically acclaimed drama that has become the latest animated and manga series to capture the attention of millions of fans across North America,” says Seiji Horibuchi President and CEO of VIZ Pictures. “Inspired by its manga and animation counterparts, the live-action DEATH NOTE combines the best aspects of suspenseful crime dramas like Heat, Seven and Sea Of Love with supernatural plot elements to make for a very unique story. We are very excited to partner with NCM FATHOM to present this special two-night event in major markets across the country. With multiple genres available to enjoy the story we hope the film attracts fans of the manga and animated series and vice versa.”

About National CineMedia
NCM LLC operates the largest digital in-theatre network in North America through long-term agreements with its founding members, AMC Entertainment Inc., Cinemark USA Inc. (NYSE: CNK) and Regal Entertainment Group (NYSE: RGC), the three largest theatre operators in the U.S., and through multi-year agreements with several other theatre operators. NCM LLC produces and distributes its FirstLook pre feature program; cinema and lobby advertising products; comprehensive meeting and event services and other entertainment programming content. NCM LLC’s national network includes over 15,250 screens of which over 13,200 are part of the company’s Digital Content Network (DCN). NCM LLC’s DCN covers 169 Designated Market Areas® (49 of the top 50). During 2007, approximately 542 million patrons attended movies shown in theatres owned by the NCM LLC founding members (excluding Loews). National CineMedia, Inc. (NASDAQ: NCMI) owns a 44.8% interest in and is the managing member of NCM LLC. For additional information, visit www.ncm.com or www.FathomEvents.com.

About VIZ Pictures, Inc.
Based in San Francisco, CA, VIZ Pictures, Inc. distributes Japanese live-action films and DVDs, with particular focus on Japanese "kawaii (cute) and cool" pop culture. VIZ Pictures approaches each release from a J-pop fan's point of view to serve manga and anime generation in North America. VIZ Pictures titles include TRAIN MAN: DENSHA OTOKO, LINDA LINDA LINDA, THE TASTE OF TEA, and PING PONG. The company will continue to offer the hottest visual entertainment straight from the "Kingdom of Pop" for audiences of all ages in North America. VIZ Pictures, Inc. is an affiliate of VIZ Media, LLC, the San Francisco-based leading U.S. publisher of Japanese manga (comics) and merchandise licensor of Japanese animation such as the popular "NARUTO" animated TV series. For more information please visit www.viz-pictures.com.© 2006 VIZ Pictures, Inc

About VIZ Media, LLC
Headquartered in San Francisco, CA, VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), is one of the most comprehensive and innovative companies in the field of manga publishing, animation and entertainment licensing of Japanese content. Owned by three of Japan’s largest creators and licensors of manga and animation, Shueisha Inc., Shogakukan Inc., and Shogakukan Production Co., Ltd. (ShoPro Japan), VIZ Media is a leader in the publishing and distribution of Japanese manga for English speaking audiences in North America and a global licensor of Japanese manga and animation. The company offers an integrated product line including, magazines such as SHONEN JUMP and SHOJO BEAT, graphic novels, videos, DVDs, audio soundtracks and develops and markets animated entertainment from initial production, television placement and distribution, to merchandise licensing and promotions for audiences and consumers of all ages. Contact VIZ Media at 295 Bay Street, San Francisco, CA 94133; Phone (415) 546-7073; Fax (415) 546-7086; and web site at www.VIZ.com.
Harris Comics is Red Hot at New York Comic-Con!

New York (April 14, 2008) - Harris Comics' debuts and incredible show
specials headline its offerings at this year's New York Comic-Con.
Harris will be at booth 1707 nearby one of the show's main entrances!

Harvey Award nominated writer Joshua Hale Fialkov will be on hand to
sign the brand new Vengeance of Vampirella trade paperback, collecting
his blockbuster storyline from the Vampirella Quarterly. The newly
released Best of Vampirella, Volume 1: Lost Tales trade featuring stories by
Alan Moore, Warren Ellis and James Robinson will also be available at
a special show price. We'll be offering steep discounts on signed
books, convention exclusives and hard to find collectibles, like the
reissuing of the classic Jose Gonzalez Wall Poster! These are some of the
very last posters we have available so get one while you still can!

Be sure to stop by booth 1707, the hottest destination at NY Comic-Con!
The official Speed Racer website has updated with a revamped look and new content.


Go on, kick the tires.


www.SpeedRacerTheMovie.com


This update includes the longest HD trailer yet (2 plus minutes), flying pig blimps, Infernal Oil signs, the open road, and the Mach 5!


Before you ask, of course those buttons on the steering wheel work. This is the Mach 5 we're talking about. Each button deploys a different defense or offense. Hit G to bring up footage not available in any of the trailers and learn right alongside Speed exactly how the Mach 5 has been souped up. Stay sharp, Minx is not one to repeat herself!


Get set: GO!


SpeedRacerTheMovie.com
In theaters: May 9th, 2008
Hey gang,
I'm heading out in a few days for NYC for my first New York Comic Con.
I'm going to be signing at a few places, and on a couple of panels, so,
please, come say hi.

Friday April 18th
3:00 - 4:00pm -- Harris Comics -- Signing Vampirella
4:00 - 5:00pm -- Comics Experience Panel -- How To Write a Pitch --
Room 1E03
6:00 - 7:00pm -- Top Cow -- Pilot Season Signing

Saturday April 19th
10:00 - 11.15am -- Top Cow -- Pilot Season Signing
3:00 - 4:00pm -- Top Cow -- Panel -- Room 1E15
5:00 - 6:00pm -- Harris Comics -- Signing Vampirella

Sunday April 20th
11:00 - 12:00pm -- Top Cow -- Pilot Season Signing

See you guys at the show!

j.

Joshua Hale Fialkov
www.thefialkov.com
www.hoarseandbuggy.com
ASP ANNOUNCES NEW TITLES FOR 2008
Includes books by Sean Wang, Christian Gossett, and a MOUSE GUARD roleplaying game

Kearny, NJ -- Apr 14, 2008 -- ASP announces its new titles debuting in 2008, adding to its award-winning and acclaimed line-up of idiosyncratic and creator-driven comic books and graphic novels. We’re also thrilled to announce our next role-playing game, one based on the award-winning world of MOUSE GUARD.

“Co-publisher Aki Liao, [editor] Joe Illidge, [art director] Pauline Benney, and I have pored over some amazing submissions,” said ASP publisher Mark Smylie. “And the crop of creators and titles we’ve selected we think not only fit the company’s focus and direction and mission, but will be greatly enjoyed by fans of ASP’s current titles and new readers who we’re sure will jump at these new books we’re so extremely proud to publish.”

And now, here are the new titles ready to scare, thrill, excite, humor, and entertain you throughout the year…

THE GRAVE DOUG FRESHLEY
Coming in April, THE GRAVE DOUG FRESHLEY (Writer: Josh Hechinger, Illustrator: mpMann, $3.95, 32 pages, Diamond Code: FEB08 3472), tells the yarn of a cowboy who, sworn to protect his charge, Bat McNally, keeps his promise after Bat’s Ma and Pa are killed and despite a bullet hole between the eyes and a really nasty exit wound out the top of his head. Together, Doug and Bat are hot on the trail of the Delancey gang, and they mean to dispense a little frontier justice. THE GRAVE DOUG FRESHLEY features twice the grit and all of the mayhem of a spaghetti western directed by Tex Avery.
http://www.aspcomics.com/the_grave_doug_freshley.php

GUNNERKRIGG COURT: ORIENTATION
Coming in April, ORIENTATION ($26.95, ISBN: 978-1-932386-34-9, 296-page hardcover, Diamond Order Code: FEB08 3463, Fantasy) collects Tom Siddell’s popular all-ages web comic, the story of Antimony Carver, a girl who attends school at gloomy Gunnerkrigg Court. The story is about the people she meets, the strange things that happen, and the things she causes to happen as she and her new friend, Kat, unravel the mysteries of the Court and deal with the everyday adventures of growing up at a school that has robots running around alongside body-snatching demons, forest gods, and the odd mythical creature.
http://www.aspcomics.com/gunnerkrigg_court.php

THE DEVIL’S PANTIES Vol 2
Coming in April is Jennie Breeden’s acclaimed THE DEVIL’S PANTIES Vol 2 (ISBN: 1-932386-36-X, $19.95, 296-page hardcover, black-and-white graphic novel). The Devil's Panties is NOT in fact, satanic porn. It is actually an autobiographical online comic strip about a girl in flame boots who works at a comic shop and occasionally hangs out with a pirate. Follow Jen as she goes kilt hunting at conventions with her leaf blower and discovers sparkly butterfly toys that no child should play with. Don't miss the geek auction, roller derby fun, and more in this book of panty goodness. (But it’s panty goodness for Mature Readers only.)
http://www.aspcomics.com/the_devils_panties.php

RUNNERS: THE BIG SNOW JOB
Coming in May, Sean Wang’s critically acclaimed sci-fi adventure returns…IN COLOR! Hard times have fallen on Roka Nostaco and the smuggling crew of the Khoruysa Brimia. Tired of scraping by on small-time runs for petty criminals, they take on a big job to get back into the top tier of mob-level work. But high pay comes with high risk, and if the freezing climate of Planet Ciceron doesn’t kill them, the hostile native population might.
http://www.aspcomics.com/runners.php

TRIAL BY FIRE: GENESIS
Expected in July, writer and illustrator Juda Tverski takes us to the edge of doomsday. In 1956, a shepherd stumbled upon the Dead Sea scrolls buried inside a cave. The deciphered writings predicted future events and doomed the fate of mankind. One prophecy spoke of a Great War fought for New Jerusalem, a war that would lead to the inevitable end of days in 2012. Mankind’s last hope is an underground crusade led by two ex-Mossad agents and a beautiful Second Templar Knight. With the shadows of damnation around every corner their greatest battle will be to find their way to redemption.
http://www.aspcomics.com/trial_by_fire.php

TITANIUM RAIN
Coming in July, Josh Finney and Kat Rocha, the team behind the acclaimed cyberpunk series, Utopiates, will bring TITANIUM RAIN, a sci-fi war epic for the post-millennial age. In year 2031 mankind’s survival instinct is put to the test when a civil war in China spirals into global conflict. Nations are destroyed. Millions are killed. And for many, like US Air Force pilot Alec Killian, survival will mean shedding some of his humanity in exchange for biotech and machine.
http://www.aspcomics.com/titanium_rain.php

THE BOND OF SAINT MARCEL
Also in July, writer Jennifer Quintenz and five-time Eisner nominee Christian Gossett take us inside a mysterious order of priests who for centuries have guarded the secret of the Bond of Saint Marcel: an occult ritual that enabled priests of the Order to enslave vampires and use them as unwilling soldiers against their own kind. When 16-year-old Kat Johnstone inherits an ancient family signet ring she is swept into a centuries-old quest for vengeance. But Kat has also inherited the power to command a vampire, and he may be her only hope of survival.
http://www.aspcomics.com/saint_marcel.php

THE GOD MACHINE
And in summer 2008 writer/illustrator Chandra Free introduces us to Guy Salvatore. Stricken with grief from the death of his girlfriend Sith, Guy can’t go through a morning without hallucinations of monsters coming out of the bathroom mirror to torment him, or without being harassed at school with friends’ nauseating concern over his well-being. One night Guy seeks solace in the graveyard by Sith’s tombstone. There, he learns that Sith might be alive. It seems that the two Gods that govern all of existence let her be stolen from her world, now left to float aimlessly in and out of dimensional planes. Implored to take action and call upon his latent power to break through his world’s plane, search out Sith, and take vengeance upon the vile Gods that caused this atrocity, Guy has to decide whether he’s going out of his skull, or if he should believe the suspiciously cliché and creepy man in the graveyard.
http://www.aspcomics.com/the_god_machine.php

MOUSE GUARD ROLEPLAYING GAME
In August, it will be everyone’s duty to join the Mouse Guard and defend the Mouse Territories against predators and dangers in this role-playing game for the MOUSE GUARD comic book series! The game is intended for all ages and levels of game-playing experience and is designed by award-winning game designer Luke Crane and is based on a simplified version of his Burning Wheel rules system (also used for the Origins Award winning RPG of 2007, Burning Empires). Includes art and extensive background material on the Mouse Territories specially prepared by Mouse Guard creator David Petersen. The details: ISBN-13: 978-1-932386-88-2, $29.95, 240-page hardcover, 8” x 8”.

All ASP titles are available worldwide at finer comic book shops, bookstores, amazon.com, Indie Press Revolution (www.indiepressrevolution.com) and electronically at DriveThruComics.com.

ABOUT ARCHAIA STUDIOS PRESS
Mark Smylie founded Archaia Studios Press (ASP) in 2002 as a new home for his epic fantasy comic book, Artesia (first published by Sirius Entertainment). Artesia, winner of ForeWord Magazine’s Best Graphic Novel of 2003, and its sequels -- Artesia Afield and Artesia Afire -- gave ASP its foundation. Artesia: Adventures in The Known World, a roleplaying game written by Mark, expanded ASP into the world of gaming; the game won the Origins Award for Role-Playing Game of 2005. Now Mark and publishing partner Aki Liao have expanded ASP to include a line of idiosyncratic and creator-driven comic books and graphic novels in the fantasy, science fiction, and horror genres, as well as translations of several of Europe’s best titles. More information can be found at www.aspcomics.com
MashON: New York Comic Con 2008 Contest Launches at the 2008 New York Comic Con April 18-20, 2008

Call for Entry: Comic, Graphic Novel, MANGA Fans, and Aspiring Artists Can Create, Capture and Tell Their Own New York Comic Con 2008 Experiences to Win $1,000 Cash Prize Using Online Comic Creation Tools at MashON.com

New York, NY April 14, 2008 – Planetwide Media, a pioneer in online social media applications and its MashON Platform, together with the New York Comic Con organizers today announced the launch of the MashON: New York Comic Con 2008 Contest, which begins on April 18, 2008. Participants will be able to submit a four panel user-generated comic entry utilizing digital photos from their own 2008 New York Comic Con experience.



Participants can visit http:/www.MashON.com/NYCC and register for a FREE account to create their MashON New York Comic Con 2008 Contest submission. Users can create their MashON: New York Comic Con comics by uploading four of their personal digital photos taken during their 2008 New York Comic Con experience. Users can then plan out a four panel comic story using the available speech bubbles and captions. Once users have completed their personalized creations, they can submit and post the final product to the contest gallery, MySpace, Facebook, or other social networks to share with family and friends. The content of the comic can be of just about anything! All entries and more details can be viewed at http://www.NYComicCon.com.



The contest will officially start at 12:01 a.m. PDT on Friday, April 18, 2008 and run through 11:59 p.m. PDT on Thursday, May 8, 2008. All entries must be received by 11:59:59 p.m. PDT on Thursday, May 8, 2008. Winners will be announced no later than Friday, May 23, 2008, and the overall grand prize winner will win $1,000 in cash



The contest is open to legal residents of the United States, who are at least 13 years of age or older at time of entry. No purchase necessary. Void wherever prohibited by law. Participants may enter the contest by visiting http://www.MashON.com and completing all required fields on the online contest entry form.



For complete contest rules and regulations, visit http://www.NYComicCon.com.

For more information please visit our website: http://www.MashON.com



About New York Comic Con

New York Comic Con (April 18-20, 2008 at the Jacob Javits Center) is the East Coast's biggest and most exciting popular culture event. An enormous show floor plays host to top entertainment industry leaders showcasing the latest and greatest in comics, graphic novels, anime, manga, video games, toys, movies, television, and more. New York Comic Con gives attendees access to top entertainment industry talent, panels, and autograph sessions as well as sneak peeks at upcoming television shows and motion pictures. And with dedicated professional hours, New York Comic Con provides an ideal business setting for the major players in the worlds of comics, film, and television.

Further information about the New York Comic Con 2008 Contest and New York Comic Con can be found at: http://www.NyComicCon.com



About Planetwide Media

Planetwide Media provides a unique and patent pending, rich interactive media platform for a wide audience of emerging consumers in the digital new media space. The company provides web enabled tools, widgets, software applications, and video games that provide personal interactivity to create, connect and easily syndicate on the internet. The company's signature products, Comic Book Creator™ and the online MashON Creator™ are best of breed applications that embraces User Generated Content and enables users to blend their creations into their social networks, blogs, branded IP Holders Microsites for fans, and http://www.MashON.com Media Player & Gallery. The online MashON Creator™ is easy to use and provides the consumer with an enhanced hypermedia experience. Planetwide Media is currently licensing its technology and its “MashON Platform”, and partnering with world-class and popular lifestyle brands and advertisers in entertainment, online portals, video games, motion picture, television, music, sports, fashion, art, and travel.

Existing branded content programming partners include: MTV.com, The Hills, Paramount Pictures, Marvel Entertainment, TOKYOPOP, Virgin Comics, Speed Racer, and National Geographic Society.

Visit http://www.MashON.com.

MashON, MashON.com, Planetwide Media and Comic Book Creator TM & © 2008 Planetwide Games, Inc. All rights reserved.